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Al Biernat, beloved Dallas restaurateur and founder of the acclaimed local steakhouse Al Biernat's, has received an outpouring of support from fans since revealing that he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also called ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, in February 2024.
Biernat is one of Dallas' all-time great hospitality figures, dating back to his days at The Palm steakhouse. Since founding Al Biernat's on Oak Lawn Avenue, it has become a destination for special occasions, Park Cities swells, and celebrities passing through town.
Biernat's sense of hospitality is nearly without compare in Dallas — and in recent years, has extended through his social media reach, with posts sharing visits such as former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, who dined at the restaurant on September 14 — delivered with Biernat's signature wit:
"Honored to have Tom Brady in the Al Biernat's Oak Lawn restaurant last night enjoying dinner with a party of 14 from Fox Sports," Biernat posted . "He had to sneak out the back of the restaurant, because some ladies were going crazy over him being there. He definitely has Charisma and Charm. He enjoyed the food and service. Promised to return. If anyone is curious, he enjoyed a cowboy cut Ribeye."
More recently, Biernat has shared his thoughts on grappling with ALS on Facebook, such as the one on September 2:
"My prayer is that God will give a team of medical researchers the Wisdom, Knowledge, and Understanding to find a cure to this cruel disease that is affecting more people every year," he posted . "Sure, I want a miracle for myself, but I want that for everyone who is struggling with this disease. Awareness is the key to finding a cure, because most people stay in the shadows and suffer, and die. Since I was diagnosed, so many people have told me of loved ones in their lives that had ALS. Something is causing this illness to become more prevalent. At the moment, neurologists don't know the cause, or the reason why it is happening more frequently."
The average life expectancy for people with ALS is two to five years after diagnosis, but the rate of progression varies from person to person. Symptoms can begin in the muscles that control speech and swallowing, or in the hands, arms, legs or feet. Biernat began to experience symptoms in May 2023.
Sadly, Biernat recently announced on September 22 that he would no longer be able to communicate on Facebook.
"Thank you for your loving kindness and prayers," he said . "I am signing off of Facebook because I no longer have the strength or dexterity in my hands to post or respond. You all have been more than supportive. I appreciate your friendship and prayers. Love and respect."
The post has received an outpouring from friends and customers, sending love and best wishes.
