On today’s show I sat down with Nick Williams and Ed Schwartzman, key figures behind BuffaLouie’s in Bloomington and its expansion into Carmel.

We discuss Ed's journey from New York to Indiana, overcoming personal tragedies, and finding new beginnings in the restaurant business.

The episode explores the evolution of BuffaLouie’s, its iconic status in Bloomington, and the recent successful opening of a location in Carmel.

Ed and Nick also dive into their community and philanthropic efforts, including a unique partnership with IU football players, including Heisman Trophy candidate Fernando Mendoza, to support MS research.

Ed then shares insights into his bagel shop venture, Gables Bagels, and emphasizes the importance of persistence and community support in business.

If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast. 

You are going to learn about:

• The Evolution of BuffaLouie’s in Bloomington to Expanding in Carmel

• BuffaLouie’s Community Efforts and Partnership with IU Football Players

• Advice for Restaurateurs

Check out these great clips from the show:
00:29 Guest Introduction: Nick Williams and Ed Schwartzman, BuffaLouie’s
01:32 Ed’s Background and BuffaLouie's History
03:54 Personal Struggles and Triumphs
11:10 Nick Williams' Journey with BuffaLouie’s
14:28 Expansion to Carmel and Business Insights
20:14 Challenges and Successes in the Restaurant Business
41:01 Trading One Set of Problems for Another
41:43 Gables Bagels: A New Venture
43:44 The Success of Gables Bagels
46:07 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
48:33 Ready, Fire, Aim: A Business Philosophy
50:38 Handling Reviews and Customer Feedback
55:54 Why We Call Indiana Home
58:28 Favorite Orders at BuffaLouie’s
01:00:44 The Mendoza Brothers Partnership
01:10:59 Hidden Gems in Indiana