S1, E47: Hires Big H - Jon Hale
Ever wondered how a missed franchise opportunity could lead to a local dining legend? In this week’s episode, we dive into the fascinating history of Hires Big H, a beloved Salt Lake City institution, with special guest Jon Hale. Jon, the son of Hires Big H founder Don Hale, shares intimate stories that showcase his father's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality, which have kept customers coming back since 1965. From the early days of Hale's Market to the iconic Hires Root Beer, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to a legacy of quality dining and family tradition.
The journey of Hires Big H began in the heart of Salt Lake City, where Don Hale’s commitment to fresh produce and quality meats from their own market laid the foundation for the restaurant’s success. Jon recounts his father’s tireless work ethic and dedication to creating a unique flavor profile for their ground beef, which has become a staple for their renowned hamburgers. The episode also explores how health priorities have evolved over time, reflecting on how reducing meat consumption and incorporating green smoothies into the diet can complement the nostalgic charm of traditional foods.
One of the standout moments in the episode is Jon’s story about his father’s fascination with Bob’s Big Boy. Despite being heartbroken over missing the franchise opportunity, Don’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to create Hires Big H. Leveraging the fresh produce and meats from Hale’s Market, Don developed a unique menu that included the famous Hires Root Beer. This episode is filled with personal anecdotes, including family trips and memorable moments that illustrate Don’s dedication to both his business and his family.
As Hires transitions to its third generation with Allie taking the helm, the importance of family traditions and community impact becomes even more evident. The episode delves into the creation of Leetza's Pizzas and the meticulous process of upholding food quality, highlighting how the Hires family has maintained its commitment to excellence. Jon shares how family involvement in the business has been crucial, from recipe development to maintaining work-life balance.
The significance of quality is further explored through the story of Hires’ famous fry sauce. Initially reluctant to sell the sauce due to fears of replication, the Hires family eventually embraced its popularity, even gaining recognition from the Olympics. The expansion of operations, including the establishment of a commissary to meet regulatory requirements, underscores the ongoing commitment to high standards. The positive relationship with the Utah Department of Agriculture is highlighted, ensuring that meat production and other food items continue to meet the highest quality.
In another chapter, Jon shares the origins of Litza's Pizza, a name inspired by a blend of Italian flair and a personal connection to his sister, Lisa. Family traditions, such as Sunday night catch-ups and memorable visits to Hires, are fondly remembered. These anecdotes emphasize the small-world connections in their community and the lessons learned from expanding Hires to various locations, including Provo.
The episode also delves into the challenges of maintaining food quality, even when catering to a price-sensitive market. Jon discusses the importance of using specific brands of butter and collaborating with local producers to ensure fresh, high-quality ingredients. Personal anecdotes about family involvement and the joy of peach season illustrate the efforts to deliver farm-fresh ingredients to customers within 12 hours.
A key theme throughout the episode is the emphasis on maintaining quality and authenticity in the food industry, despite financial pressures. Jon explains how prioritizing customer experience and product integrity over profit has been crucial to Hires’ success. From making food from scratch, such as breading chicken in-house and crafting veggie burgers from natural ingredients, the commitment to quality remains unwavering.
As the episode draws to a close, the focus shifts to the transition of leadership within Hires Big H. With Allie stepping up to carry the torch from Julie, the significance of maintaining tradition and community spirit is underscored. The unique charm of local burger joints across the country and the impact of Hires on the community are celebrated, creating countless memories for its patrons. The discussion concludes with an appreciation for the past and excitement for the future, emphasizing the enduring legacy of this cherished establishment.
Tune in to this inspiring episode for a deep dive into the history of Hires Big H, the entrepreneurial journey of Don Hale, and the exciting future as the family tradition continues with the next generation. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, this episode is a must-listen.
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