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Hearth and Counter is owned and operated by Mike Smith and Chris Ragland. Smith & Ragland strike a perfect balance between operating with passion and operating with discipline.
For more than two decades, Mike Smith has been a prominent figure in Austin’s restaurant industry. He’s successfully overseen renowned establishments like Gumbo’s, Shoreline Grill, and Jeffrey’s. While he’s adept in diverse culinary styles, it’s the timeless charm of Italian cuisine that truly captivates him. As the proprietor of Andiamo Ristorante, he’s committed to upholding its cherished refinement and culinary excellence within Austin’s dining scene. With a deepening connection to the community, he aspires to not only maintain Andiamo’s elegance and unmatched flavors but also to win the affection and loyalty of the city he holds dear.
With two decades of diverse leadership experience, Chris has catalyzed growth in numerous companies globally. His strategic prowess and knack for fostering loyal teams and vibrant cultures have driven success across real estate, private equity, and high-tech sectors. Notably, he’s engaged with industry giants like Adobe and BMW, while his community commitment led to board roles in non-profits and prestigious awards. Chris’s own venture, “Ragland,” fulfills investment dreams, offering private funds in Aviation, Cannabis, and International Private Equity. He’s also a lead consultant for Synnecta and controls Ragland Holdings LLC. Armed with an MBA from St. Edward’s University and a pending Doctoral degree from Universitat Jaume Primero, Chris embodies a dynamic blend of expertise and achievement.