Susan DeRose has forged a path that spans across two distinct industries: dining and filmmaking. As the president of Liberty House Restaurant Corporation, Susan has a forty-five year career creating multiple bands and currently oversees beloved, iconic restaurants in Atlanta—Bones Restaurant, OK Cafe, and Blue Ridge Grill. Her journey has been shaped by a commitment to excellence, creativity, and a deep sense of resilience.
A Military Upbringing Shaped Her Values
Susan’s story begins with her upbringing in a military family. “Growing up in a military family, I learned early on the importance of discipline, resilience, and hard work,” she shares. These lessons have influenced her throughout her career, both in business and in life.
Her family’s values instilled in her a sense of purpose that she carries with her to this day. She learned how to adapt quickly, how to be a leader, and, most importantly, how to keep pushing forward even in the face of adversity.
The Leap Into the Restaurant World
After moving to Atlanta, Susan and her business partner saw an opportunity to build something unique in Atlanta, an up and coming city with limited professional service. “We saw an opportunity to create something special, a public, private club” she recalls. They dreamed of a place where guests could not only enjoy great food but also feel a deep sense of connection.
As president of Liberty House Restaurant Corporation, Susan DeRose oversees three restaurants that have become pillars of Atlanta’s dining scene. Bones Restaurant is known for its top-tier steaks, while OK Cafe is a local favorite for Southern comfort food, and Blue Ridge Grill offers a refined take on rustic American cuisine. What all her restaurants have in common is a dedication to personalized service. It’s about creating memorable experiences. “I want every guest to feel like they’re part of something bigger. It’s not just about the meal; it’s about the entire experience,” she says. That commitment to excellence has led her restaurants to be nationally recognized for their quality and hospitality.
A New Passion: Filmmaking
In 2020, Susan took her creative passion in a new direction by writing and directing Charming the Hearts of Men, a historical drama starring Kelsey Grammer. The film explores social change and pivotal moments in American history. “I wanted to show what it was like in the South in early 60s, the personal relationships between blacks and white, the challenges women had getting ahead, the special connections not shown from Hollywood.
Balancing Two Worlds
“Running a film set and managing restaurants is very similar. There’s a front-of-house department (waiters & actors) and a back-of-house (chefs and production departments). Juggling the demands of two industries is not easy, but the similarities have made it possible. It requires being hands-on, yet delegating and trusting my team. It’s about finding balance and being fully present in whatever I’m working on at the time,” she explains.
Learning from Failure
Despite her many achievements, Susan remains humble about her journey. “I’ve learned that failure is part of the journey,” she admits. “You can’t be afraid to make mistakes. It’s through those challenges that you grow and get better. Not every restaurant is a winner. Not everyone will like your film”. But every experience, whether positive or negative, shapes who you become. “I’m grateful for all of it,” she says. Susan’s resilience and ability to learn from setbacks have been key to her success.
Looking Toward the Future
“There’s always something new to learn and explore. I’m excited for what’s next,” she says with a smile. Her enthusiasm for continuing to grow both her restaurant brand and filmmaking career is palpable.
Susan’s journey is a reminder of the importance of perseverance, staying true to one’s values, and embracing change. “At the end of the day, it’s about leaving a legacy that inspires others to be their best,” she concludes.
With her unwavering commitment to excellence, Susan DeRose continues to push boundaries, inspiring others through her work in both dining and film.
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