I think I know why you were denied last year.  

Your link:

i think you just sent this link from your drafts? you have to publish your portfolio on the site then send a link

Ok, does this link work?

https://issuu.com/scottwolber/...

it’s actually not a very architectural portfolio. It’s more like a portfolio to showcase ur business entity…

I think it’s better that you take a short course or architecture certificate in this year before applying again. 

Also, I think it’s also better to remove all the images of yourself plastered all over the first few pages… Please remove the 2 pages of “ABOUT YOU” too. This is an architecture portfolio not a business pitch.. 

Not an design portfolio.

Why did you think this was appropriate for a professional architecture degree?

Stop picky, I think this guy is brave. Why it can not be a portfolio for arch degree. He included renderings,(no matter the quantity is ), also his rendering has outdoor environment either. I do not have those sometimes. I know some of the  arch students they don't even know where the north is. His personal back ground listed all of his information by using just one page. 

i have a few tips not just for you portfolio but for your whole application. Applications are holistic and when you're applying for an architecture degree without an architecture background i don't think they expect architecture from you but rather transferrable skills.

1. i think you being a restaurant owner who wants to transition to architecture is an interesting story if you're able to frame it correctly. why do you want to do architecture? what skills have you learned in the restaurant business that are applicable to architecture? crafting a narrative and selling a story is the most important part of what we do as people and as architects. This is AMAZING advice on how to write a personal statement https://med.umn.edu/sites/med....

2. like everyone else suggested, try your hand at some intensive architecture short courses, not only  to get material for your portfolio, but to figure out if architecture is actually something you want to do. Look for programs like this one https://www.arch.columbia.edu/...

3. i think ut austin has a notoriously low rate of acceptance for outside applicants because of their commitment to accepting in state applicants. i would look at other schools as well.

4. a lot of universities have portfolio review sessions, open houses etc. which are a great introduction to what they're looking for in an applicant but an even greater opportunity to have some one on one conversations with people actually reviewing the apps and asking for advice on how to go about doing what you want to do (transitioning from the restaurant business to architecture). Don't underestimate the power of people knowing who you are before they read your applications. Make some connections.  

I hope it works out!