A resident of Dunwoody for 26 years, Billy Kramer has made a few friends here. In fact, their support is the reason he’s never lived anywhere else for a longer amount of time. He believes food is what brings people together, so he’s made it his mission to be a good neighbor right back from his gas station eatery, NFA Burger. He is fresh off hosting the 2nd annual Burger Benefit that brought chefs from around the country to raise money for Giving Kitchen, and is constantly working to show how supporting other restaurant owners and operators instead of competing against each other serves the community (and the industry) better.
How did you connect with Giving Kitchen and why is it important to you?
Billy Kramer: Whitney Russell, may she rest in peace, was one of my first employees and constantly talked about the mission of Giving Kitchen: helping food service workers in crisis. It is my belief that if you’ve had any success in the restaurant industry, you owe it to the industry to give back. Additionally, my father was involved in a similar organization for the shoe industry, the Two Ten Footwear Foundation, so I grew up in a family that took care of the industry that made my success possible.
When you look back on how NFA has grown, what are you most proud of?
BK: The fact that with no restaurant experience, I’ve managed to make it almost five years. I take nothing for granted and truly believe that every day might be the last burger that comes out of NFA. I’m proud of the staff I’ve built. They’re simply amazing and do their best to ensure each customer has a great experience.
When you’re not at NFA, where can people find you?
BK: If my NFA errands take me to the south side of town, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll find me at Pollo Primo. If I’m running to the Dunwoody Costco, you might find me at Cafe Sababa or Local Expedition Wood Fired Grill. If I’m running up to Icebox, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll find me at E. 48th Street Market. There isn’t a restaurant in Dunwoody where I can’t find something I really enjoy.
For any first-timers, what should they order?
BK: A Double, as is, with tots. Keep it simple!
