Food Contributor Spotlight: Hattie B’s Hot Chicken

Since its founding in 2012, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken has prided itself on its family roots and hospitality while maintaining its commitment to authentically good food. Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Hattie B’s offers chicken at spice levels ranging from “Southern Style” all the way up to “Shut the Cluck Up” as well as southern comfort staples like collard greens and baked beans.

Less than a year after opening, Hattie B’s new Austin location began its partnership with Keep Austin Fed. Each week, the store donates its surplus chicken back to the community, keeping food out of the landfill and easing barriers to food access.

Although the store’s initial goal was simply to reduce food waste, Lael Smith, Hattie B’s Assistant Manager, quickly realized the positive impact donating had on her crew. “Our team takes time and care to pack and freeze the chicken to ensure its longevity, but we like doing it. We don’t enjoy throwing things away,” said Smith. “Helping people out is a big draw for us.”

In addition to being rewarding, donating surplus chicken has been an easy addition to the restaurant’s daily routine. Hattie B’s uses timers in its kitchen to provide customers with only the freshest chicken. At the end of the day, leftover chicken is labeled, frozen, and set aside for donation. “The food has good nutritional value, and we’re able to donate it to someone who otherwise might not have access to it,” said Smith. 

Keep Austin Fed’s tailored pick up schedule and clear donation guidelines make it easy for restaurants like Hattie B’s to ensure that their food goes to Austinites instead of a landfill. Reflecting on her store’s participation, Smith encourages other restaurants interested in donating surplus food to take the first step and reach out. “We could donate a lot more than we thought. And it was a lot easier than we thought,” said Smith. “My advice is to just contact Keep Austin Fed and see how they can work with you.”