Burgatory Partner & Real Estate Broker Herky Pollock: Patch Spotlight

CBRE's Herky Pollock is one of the preeminent real estate brokers in the country and has leased properties at most of the major retail and restaurant destinations in Pittsburgh. He's also a partner in HiLife Hospitality, which operates the highly successful Burgatory restaurant chain, Shorty's locations on the North Shore and The Waterfront, and the recently opened Ritual House, Downtown. One of Pittsburgh's most interesting personalities, Pollock agreed to shed some light on himself to Patch.

You had a very successful career in commercial real estate long before you entered the restaurant business. What made you decide to do that?

To me, they are related. My goal my entire career has been to create vitality and vibrancy in Pittsburgh so that my kids want to move back home and not away. Most everything that I do is done to enhance Pittsburgh and make it shine! By being fully embedded in both worlds, it allows me to evoke change here. For the time being, my wife, Lisa, and I are enjoying the fruits of our labor with one eye looking out the window for their return!

How are you able to juggle these two very demanding fields?

I work tirelessly and passionately. I am also very fortunate to have incredible partners and teams in both arenas (including my wife) who enable me to excel. Lastly, having my hand on the pulse and being uniquely connected in many areas allows me to be very opportunistic and to connect the dots quickly.

Favorite thing in Pittsburgh that no longer exists?

Wightman School and Mr. Rogers.

Most recent book read?

"The Death of American Virture: Clinton Versus Starr" by Ken Gormley (president of Duquesne University).

Movie you could watch any time?

"The Shawshank Redemption."

Favorite pizza topping?

Spinach or pepperoni.

Early bird or late-nighter?

Late-nighter.

Favorite Pittsburgh restaurant (that you don't have a stake in)?

Pusadee's Garden.

Favorite adult beverage?

Pomegrante Moscow Mule.

Favorite Pittsburgh national celebrity, living or dead?

Billy Porter.

Favorite local sports mascot: Steely McBeam, Pirate Parrot or Iceburgh?

Pirate Parrot.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

I owned the first hot dog cart on the streets of Pittsburgh on Walnut Street in Shadyside.