Check Out Henry Roberts’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Henry Roberts.

Hi Henry, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I grew up in Sydney, Australia, and moved to the U.S. when I was 23 with the intention of spending a year working and traveling. I’ve always had a passion for cooking, especially in a household that emphasized fresh, local produce. My mom often reminded me that nothing good ever comes from a packet!

I studied music at the Australian Institute of Music, but alongside my studies, I worked in various roles within Sydney’s hospitality scene – from bars and cafes to pizza delivery and catering. After moving to New York City in 2011, I continued in the restaurant industry and soon realized there was an opportunity to bring the healthy, vibrant café culture I loved from Australia to NYC.

In June 2014, we opened the first Two Hands Café just a few blocks from where I had been working. The concept was an immediate success, and we quickly recognized the potential to expand. Over the next five years, we opened four locations in NYC. Then, in October 2020, during the height of the pandemic, we took a leap and opened a location in Austin, Texas. The response was fantastic, and it confirmed our ability to grow outside of NYC. Since then, we’ve opened additional locations in Nashville TN, Franklin TN, Dallas, TX, and Denver, CO.

On a personal note, I’m married with three kids, and we live in the Hudson Valley, New York, on a 65-acre family farm where we raise beef, lamb, and pork for Two Hands.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The hospitality industry is undoubtedly challenging, and there have certainly been ups and downs along the way. As an entrepreneur opening any small business, you need to be prepared for the uncertainties – the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

That said, we try to appreciate and celebrate the wins as much as possible, because with every setback comes an opportunity for growth.

For me, the biggest challenge has been identifying the right growth strategy for our business. Deciding when, where, and how quickly to expand is crucial, and it all depends on the strength of the team. With everyone already stretched thin, I know that as the leader, the decisions I make need to align with the team’s capabilities. Without a strong team, you don’t have a business, so it’s essential to approach growth in a way that supports and strengthens that foundation.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At Two Hands, we aim to create a welcoming, casual hospitality experience that is deeply connected to the communities we serve. We’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a consistent presence throughout the day, seven days a week. Our menu is known for its creative and healthy dishes, designed to fuel our guests’ lifestyles. I’m especially proud of the culture and hospitality we foster within our restaurants, where every team member is committed to creating a warm and enjoyable experience for our guests.

What does success mean to you?
Over my 11 years as the founder of a restaurant group, I’ve learned that success is truly defined by patience, consistency, and longevity. Many brands today, whether in restaurants, CPG products, retail, or other industries, often chase that viral moment to define their success. But the reality is, patience is key. What starts as a five-year plan often turns into a seven- or ten-year journey. The sooner you accept that and focus on consistent growth—through continuous refinement and investing in your team for their long-term development and opportunities—the more successful you will be.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.twohandshospitality.com
• Instagram: @twohandsrestaurant
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henry-roberts-67a6a4b2/