In the year 1993, Bill Granger embarked on a tumultuous journey when he unveiled his restaurant ‘bills’ in Sydney. The early critiques were far from praiseworthy, with one critic bestowing a meagre 4/10 rating upon the food and service. The coffee was labelled as “inadequate,” and the cuisine was deemed only ‘average.’ It appeared that the prospective ‘breakfast monarch’ was off to a modest start.

Granger’s pursuit of culinary stardom was anything but smooth sailing. With only a $30,000 budget, he took a gamble on bills, uncertain of what lay ahead. The initial appraisals of the restaurant were less than flattering, and it seemed as though Granger’s aspirations of achieving greatness were slipping through his fingers.

Nevertheless, despite the early obstacles, bills possessed key attributes that would ultimately propel it to fame. The open, sun-drenched spaces and communal dining ambience were already present from the outset. The restaurant harboured the potential for success, even if it wasn’t immediately evident.

As time went by, bills began to gain momentum, and its popularity soared. Critiques began to improve, and the restaurant secured a spot on lists of Sydney’s trendiest breakfast establishments. The New York Times lauded Granger as the ‘egg master of Sydney’, highlighting the fame of his scrambled eggs. It seemed that all the toil and devotion were finally reaping rewards.

Tragically, Granger’s journey was cut short when he succumbed to cancer. Nonetheless, his legacy endured, and bills became synonymous with Australian sunshine and an innovative approach to cuisine. What had commenced as a modest café in Sydney had blossomed into an international sensation, with branches in Tokyo, London, and Seoul.

Reflecting on those early days, it’s evident that Granger’s vision and perseverance were the driving forces behind his triumph. His restaurant was more than just a dining establishment; it embodied warmth, fresh flavours, and stylish settings. Despite the initial adversities, Granger’s dream had materialised, leaving an enduring impression on the culinary realm.

Ultimately, the tale of Bill Granger is a testament to the potency of resilience and resolve. It serves as a reminder that success often comes after surmounting adversity, and that at times, the most impressive triumphs arise from the humblest origins.