Brian Black, owner of Preston Hollow-based Ocho Kitchen and Cocktails, is one of eight receiving the national Outstanding Business Leaders award this month from Northwood University. Black will be honored at the 33rd Annual Outstanding Business Leader Awards Gala in Florida on Jan. 25.
Black, an SMU graduate and son of one of the original Chili’s concept founders, started working in the restaurant business at age 15.
The early start did him well. He’s come quite a way from dishwasher, busboy, line cook and bartender–all jobs he has held. His wine list was featured in Esquire Magazine, Wine Spectator, Gourmet and Town and Country when Black was just 24 years old. In 2004, he became the owner and operator of Mi Piaci Ristorante and in 2012, he started Ocho Kitchen and Cocktails. Black is also president of Hatch Restaurant Management Group.
Ocho Kitchen and Cocktails
Black also spends his time running, fishing, coaching and surrounded by his wife Sonia and their sons Jackson, Garret and Jake.
The award recognizes Black’s business achievements and community support. Northwood University, a nation-wide managerial- and entrepreneurial-focused college, has campuses in Fort Worth and Cedar Hill.
