When passion meets purpose, extraordinary things happen. That’s the story behind the reopening of Slutty Vegan Birmingham, led by a fearless Black female entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience in the restaurant industry. With a mission to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusivity, and redefine plant-based cuisine, this visionary leader is carving her own path in the South’s dynamic food scene. From her military roots to her role as a mother, wife, and business owner, her inspiring journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and community empowerment. Dive into this exclusive story with Reatta Myers-Hall to discover what drives her bold vision for Slutty Vegan Birmingham and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.
FEMI: What inspired you to bring Slutty Vegan to Birmingham, and how does it feel to be a part of such a bold and groundbreaking franchise?
Reatta Myers-Hall: Reopening Slutty Vegan Birmingham has been an incredibly inspiring and fulfilling journey for me. What truly motivated me was the alignment of my personal values and mission with those of the Slutty Vegan brand. We both share a deep commitment to community, inclusivity, and creating unforgettable dining experiences. Being part of such a bold and groundbreaking franchise feels empowering and exhilarating. Slutty Vegan is not just about serving delicious vegan food; it’s about challenging perceptions, breaking barriers, and fostering a sense of inclusivity and joy. The brand’s mission to make plant-based eating accessible and exciting resonates deeply with my own vision for the restaurant. The support and enthusiasm from our customers have been incredible, and it fuels my passion to continue pushing boundaries and making a positive impact. It feels amazing to be part of something so innovative and impactful. I’m excited for the future and all the possibilities that lie ahead for Slutty Vegan Birmingham and our wonderful community.
FEMI: As a Black Female entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience in the restaurant industry, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Reatta Myers-Hall: For years, I worked tirelessly to help other companies thrive. Whenever I saw areas that needed improvement, I offered suggestions. But time and again, my ideas were ignored. It was disheartening, but I never let it break me. I knew that one day, someone would listen. What happened at those other businesses never made me want to quit. I just tucked those ideas in my back pocket, and now I’m pulling them out. One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is overcoming stereotypes and biases. As a Black woman, I’ve often had to prove my capabilities and expertise in ways that others might not have to. This has required me to be exceptionally diligent, confident, and persistent. I’ve learned to turn these challenges into opportunities to showcase my strengths and break down barriers.Balancing work and personal life is another challenge many entrepreneurs face, and I’m no exception.
As a devoted mother and wife, it’s essential for me to find harmony between my professional and personal responsibilities. I’ve learned to prioritize self-care, delegate tasks, and create a supportive network both at home and in my business. Through it all, my military background has been a cornerstone of my resilience. The discipline, leadership, and strategic thinking I developed in the Army National Guard have equipped me to face these challenges head-on. I’ve also leaned on my community, drawing strength from the incredible support and encouragement I’ve received from those around me. These challenges have made me stronger and more determined. They’ve fueled my passion for creating a space where everyone feels welcome and valued, and for inspiring other women, especially women of color, to pursue their dreams with confidence and courage.
FEMI: Slutty Vegan is known for its bold menu and flavorful plant-based dishes. What’s your personal favorite dish, and how would you recommend first-time customers approach the menu?
Reatta Myers-Hall: My personal favorite has always been the Fussy Hussy. It’s a classic that will always have a special place in my heart with its delicious combination of flavors and textures. However, my new favorite has to be the Thai Chili Cauliflower Wings. They are absolutely amazing –crispy, tangy, and packed with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. They really showcase how exciting and innovative vegan food can be!
For first-time customers, I recommend approaching the menu with an open mind and a sense of adventure. Start with one of our signature burgers, like the Fussy Hussy or the One Night Stand. These dishes are crowd-pleasers and give you a great taste of what Slutty Vegan is all about. Don’t forget to try our sides, like the Slutty Fries or the Thai Chili Cauliflower Wings – they’re perfect for sharing and exploring different flavors.
FEMI: You’ve committed yourself to supporting the Woodlawn Community through this venture. Can you share some of the ways Slutty Vegan Birmingham is making an impact locally?
Reatta Myers-Hall: Supporting the Woodlawn Community is a core part of our mission at Slutty Vegan Birmingham, and we’re thrilled to be making a positive impact locally in several exciting ways. We’re committed to providing healthy, delicious, and accessible plant-based food options to our community. By offering flavorful vegan junk food, we’re helping to promote healthier eating habits and showing that plant-based food can be both satisfying and fun. We’re also deeply involved in community engagement and support. This includes partnering with local organizations such as Rev Birmingham and initiatives to uplift and empower our neighbors. We’re focused on creating job opportunities and fostering a supportive work environment for our team members. By hiring locally and investing in our employees’ growth and development, we’re contributing to the economic vitality of the Woodlawn area.
Another exciting aspect of our impact is our commitment to sustainability. We’re constantly looking for ways to reduce our environmental footprint, from sourcing ingredients responsibly to minimizing waste. This not only benefits our community but also aligns with our broader mission of promoting a more sustainable and compassionate lifestyle.
FEMI: As a mother of four boys, a wife, and a business owner, how do you balance the demands of family life and running such a dynamic restaurant?
Reatta Myers-Hall: Balancing the demands of family life and running a dynamic restaurant like Slutty Vegan Birmingham is definitely a challenge, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. As a mother of four boys, a wife, and a business owner, I’ve learned that it takes a lot of love, support, and careful planning to make it all work. First and foremost, my family is my rock. Their support and understanding mean the world to me. We make it a priority to spend quality time together, whether it’s through family night out or just catching up on each other’s day. It’s these moments that keep us connected and grounded. In terms of managing the restaurant, I’ve learned the importance of delegation and building a strong, reliable team. I trust my staff and empower them to take on responsibilities, which allows me to focus on both my family and the business. Clear communication and setting boundaries are key – knowing when to step back and take time for myself and my loved ones is crucial.
FEMI: Your journey from Army National Guard service to becoming a franchise owner is truly inspiring. How have your experiences in the military shaped your leadership style and approach to business?
Reatta Myers-Hall: My military experience instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, resilience, and leadership. I learned the importance of teamwork, strategic planning, and staying calm under pressure. These skills have been invaluable in the fast-paced and dynamic environment of the restaurant industry. As a leader, I strive to create a supportive and empowering atmosphere for my team. I believe in leading by example, by showing dedication and hard work in everything I do. The military taught me the significance of clear communication and decisive action, which I apply daily in managing my restaurant. My time in the service reinforced my commitment to community and service. At Slutty Vegan Birmingham, we prioritize not only delivering delicious vegan food but also engaging with and giving back to our community. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and valued. Overall, my military background has shaped me into a leader who is both strong and compassionate, always ready to face challenges head-on while nurturing a positive and inclusive environment.
FEMI: With plant-based eating becoming more mainstream, how do you see Slutty Vegan contributing to changing perceptions about vegan cuisine, especially in the South?
Reatta Myers-Hall: At Slutty Vegan Birmingham, we’re all about showing that vegan food can be indulgent, flavorful, and downright fun. Our new cauliflower wings are a perfect example of this. They take a beloved American fan favorite and give it a delicious, plant-based twist. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and filled with bold flavors, these wings are a testament to the fact that vegan food doesn’t have to be boring or bland. By offering these innovative and mouth-watering options, we’re helping to break down the stereotypes that vegan food is just salads and tofu. Instead, we’re proving that it can be just as satisfying and crave-worthy as any traditional dish. Our goal is to create a dining experience that excites and delights everyone, whether they’re long-time vegans or just curious about trying something new. In the South, where food is such a central part of our culture and community, we’re proud to be part of a movement that’s making plant-based eating more accessible and appealing. We’re not just serving food; we’re creating a space where people can come together, enjoy amazing food, and feel good about their choices.
FEMI: Looking ahead, what are your goals for Slutty Vegan Birmingham, and what legacy do you hope to leave as a trailblazing Black female entrepreneur in the food industry?
Reatta Myers-Hall: I envision our restaurant not just as a place to enjoy incredible vegan food, but as a vibrant hub of community, innovation, and empowerment. I want to continue expanding our menu with creative dishes that challenge the norms of vegan cuisine and excite our customers. Our cauliflower wings are just the beginning!
I also aim to deepen our community involvement, creating more opportunities for local partnerships, events, and initiatives that uplift and support our neighbors. It’s important to me that Slutty Vegan Birmingham remains a beacon of positivity and progress in our city. I want to inspire other women, especially women of color, to pursue their dreams fearlessly and to know that they can achieve greatness in any field they choose. My journey from the Army National Guard to owning a successful restaurant franchise is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. Ultimately, I want to be remembered not just for the success of my business, but for the impact I’ve made on my community and the doors I’ve helped open for others. My legacy will be one of breaking barriers, fostering inclusivity, and showing that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.
Slutty Vegan Birmingham isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a movement that celebrates bold flavors, community engagement, and the power of breaking barriers. With a trailblazing leader at the helm, the franchise is transforming perceptions of vegan food and empowering others to dream big and embrace change. As this journey continues, one thing is clear: the future of Slutty Vegan Birmingham is as vibrant and flavorful as its iconic menu. Stay tuned—this is just the beginning of an extraordinary story of passion, purpose, and plant-based possibilities.
Stay Connected with Reatta Myers-Hall on Instagram.
Photography Credit: Brian Pride Photography
