When you talk to Michael Bacon, owner of BrewBurgers, the theme that emerges is resilience—seasoned with more than a dash of perseverance.
Bacon opened the original BrewBurgers in 2011, and it quickly became a go-to for locals craving classic burgers and friendly service. A few years later, he doubled the fun by opening BrewBurgers Back Porch on Venice Island. Then, in 2022, he reimagined that spot into a roomy hangout with a full bar, live music, trivia nights, and a sports bar vibe, all without losing the BrewBurgers flavors fans love.
Not everything went according to plan. In early 2022, Bacon opened Shuck N' Ale, a seafood spot that quickly won fans. But when the hospital across the street closed, foot traffic dried up, and he had to shut the doors. Still, instead of letting the concept disappear, he has reimagined it. Soon, diners will be able to order Shuck N' Ale favorites—think jambalaya and étouffée—through a new ghost kitchen operating out of Brew Za Bagels, his other restaurant. Alongside it, "American Comfort" will offer homestyle classics like shepherd's pie and lasagna for pickup or delivery.
“I’ve learned you have to make tough decisions,” Bacon said. “But if you focus on food, service, and environment—and keep caring for your community—you’ll succeed.” It’s a philosophy he lives out daily, whether serving as Chair of the Board of the Venice Chamber of Commerce, as a trustee for Family Promise of South Sarasota County, or through his restaurants themselves. Many of his staff have been with him since the early days, treating guests with empathy and heart. And during Covid, that same spirit drove BrewBurgers to supply hundreds of boxed meals to local nonprofits.
Bacon's journey hasn't been easy—pandemics, hurricanes, rising food costs—but he's kept going. As he said, "Anybody can sell a burger. We do it with care and passion."
“I’ve learned you have to make tough decisions. “But if you focus on food, service, and environment—and keep caring for your community—you’ll succeed.”