Steve Kislow, CEO, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill – Controlled Burn: Achieving consistent growth in the restaurant sector without sacrificing quality

Episode 192 of the Welcome to the Arena from ICR – Conversations with Today's Innovators & Business Leaders podcast, hosted by ICR, titled "Steve Kislow, CEO, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill – Controlled Burn: Achieving consistent growth in the restaurant sector without sacrificing quality" was published on August 20, 2025 and runs 27 minutes.

August 20, 2025 ·27m · Welcome to the Arena from ICR – Conversations with Today's Innovators & Business Leaders

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Summary

Summary: There are a lot of different brands fighting for market share in the "polished" segment of the restaurant industry. To stand out, you need to offer great food, at great value, in a great atmosphere. But above all, you need to make sure you have the right people at your side.And if anyone knows the value of people, it's Steve Kislow, the CEO of Firebirds wood-fired Grills. Since joining the Firebirds team in 2003, Steve has helped open dozens of locations, as the brand has grown from three restaurants in two states to 60 plus locations in 22 states.Steve joins us to talk about Firebirds' approach to innovation, their commitment to customer experience, and their plans to expand their reach even further in the coming years. He also discusses the emphasis Firebirds places on always hiring the best.Highlights:Path from chef to CEO (2:23)Firebirds' niche (4:27)How Covid Changed Things (6:44)Menu Innovation (8:17)AUVs (11:18)Price Adjustments (12:37)Growth Strategy (13:41)Changes to 'The Box' (15:48)Growing While Preserving Quality (16:58)Changes in Consumer Behavior (19:10)Approach to Technology (21:41)Evolution of the Corporate Culture (22:49)10 Year Outlook (24:09)Favorite Dishes (25:34)Links:Steve's LinkedInFirebirds LinkedInFirebirds WebsiteICR LinkedInICR TwitterICR WebsiteFeedback:If you have questions about the show, or have a topic in mind you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, [email protected].

Episode Description

Summary:

There are a lot of different brands fighting for market share in the "polished" segment of the restaurant industry. To stand out, you need to offer great food, at great value, in a great atmosphere. But above all, you need to make sure you have the right people at your side.

And if anyone knows the value of people, it's Steve Kislow, the CEO of Firebirds wood-fired Grills. Since joining the Firebirds team in 2003, Steve has helped open dozens of locations, as the brand has grown from three restaurants in two states to 60 plus locations in 22 states.

Steve joins us to talk about Firebirds' approach to innovation, their commitment to customer experience, and their plans to expand their reach even further in the coming years. He also discusses the emphasis Firebirds places on always hiring the best.

Highlights: