The Heart of Southern Brunch: Glen Lewellyan’s Path to Delta Biscuit Company
Glen Lewellyan, a seasoned restaurateur with a passion for breakfast, is the driving force behind Monroe’s Delta Biscuit Company, a beloved brunch spot in Monroe. With over three decades of experience in the industry, Glen’s journey is a testament to his love for the craft, dating back to when he was just a 16-year-old washing dishes and falling in love with the kinetic energy of the restaurant world.
For Glen, breakfast has always been more than just a meal; it’s a cherished memory. “I remember my parents making pancakes and bacon for dinner,” Glen recalls. “As a kid, that felt like the greatest dinner ever.” This early love for breakfast foods stayed with him, becoming a lifelong passion that would one day inspire Delta Biscuit Company.
Years later, while dining at a brunch spot in New Orleans, Glen had an epiphany. “I thought, ‘I can do this. I can bring this experience to Monroe.’” It took time - years, in fact - but the dream never faded. Instead, it grew, taking shape as Glen honed his craft in various restaurants across the South.
Launching Delta Biscuit Company wasn't without its hurdles. Opening amidst the COVID-19 pandemic brought unique challenges, from sourcing materials to staffing the restaurant. It took three months to assemble a team - a process that previously took only a few days. Yet, the perseverance paid off, and Glen proudly notes that many of those initial hires are still with the company today, contributing to the restaurant's consistent quality and friendly service.
Delta Biscuit’s menu is rooted in the philosophy of scratch-made dishes using the finest ingredients available. Glen's personal favorites are the Shrimp and Grits and a dish called The Nola Bowl, both of which reflect his deep love for Southern breakfast cuisine. The Nola Bowl, in particular, is a creation born from late-night experiments at home, combining grits with eggs, Trinity, and chorizo into a dish that has become a menu staple.
Glen and his team at Delta Biscuit Company are passionate about supporting local agriculture and using the freshest ingredients available. They source their produce from Current Farms in Marion, ensuring that the fruits and vegetables on your plate are as fresh and flavorful as possible. The cane syrup, which adds a rich sweetness to many of their dishes, comes from Norris Syrup Mill in West Monroe, a local favorite with deep roots in the community.
As Delta Biscuit Company grows, with expansion plans for a new location in Ruston, Glen remains committed to maintaining the high standards that have made his restaurant a local favorite. He dreams of one day expanding the brand to multiple cities, with Monroe as its home base.
For those dreaming of following in his footsteps, Glen offers simple, heartfelt advice: “Be ready for hard work. This isn’t just a job - it’s a lifestyle. But if you love it, if you’re passionate about it, jump in headfirst.”
Delta Biscuit Company is more than just a restaurant; it’s a reflection of Glen Lewellyan’s lifelong love for breakfast, his commitment to his community, and his unwavering dedication to the craft of creating memorable dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the area, Delta Biscuit offers a warm welcome, a delicious meal, and a taste of Glen’s passion for the perfect brunch.