Today we’d like to introduce you to John Reed.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Our business started with myself and my partner opening a tiny sports bar in Irvine, Ca. It was a little-hidden gem in a predominately corporate business area. An opportunity presented itself to take my partner’s creative concepts and my business knowledge and open another bigger bar with more food. And it successfully became a restaurant with the largest whiskey selection in Orange County.
Our success in CA led us to more opportunity. Then, I came to Texas and fell in love with Houston – this city is so friendly and welcoming. It’s a great place to grow your business. Once we opened our doors here, we were well-received by the community. People love our concept and the press has really spoken highly about the new kids on the block.
Has it been a smooth road?
Every restaurant has its challenges. And taking a concept that works on the West coast and bringing it to Texas was a risk, but the transition was practically seamless. We hired some amazing staff members right from the start. The biggest challenge to this point has been Hurricane Harvey. Its impact on the city was devastating. Seeing people suffer in this way was a difficult experience and one we had never gone through living in other cities.
Not only businesses, but the community as a whole, felt the devastation. But, no other city in my experience has been so resilient and helpful in a time of need. It truly motivated our whole team to help the community – from providing food and supplies, to helping construction teams with water-damaged buildings – they were very driven to help.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Bosscat Kitchen & Libations story. Tell us more about the business.
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations is known as one of the top 50 whiskey bars in the country. Its High energy, open spaced concept promotes a lively dining experience. Chef Peter Petro’s menu is a unique offering with upscale renditions of American comfort food. One of our best attractions is the famous whiskey room, that houses hundreds of whiskeys from several countries.
Bar Director and Managing Partner, Matt Sharp oversees a well-rounded bar program that includes unique cocktails, whiskey dinners, and knowledgeable bartenders.
What really sets us apart is the culture we have bred within the company. Me and the other owners make it a point to remain highly involved in all aspects of the business. We aren’t afraid to be in the trenches with our staff. I lead pre-shifts every week and travel between the locations so that I can continue to foster the culture of customer service that we developed.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
We have BIG things coming to the Houston Heights! Our new concept, BCK: Kitchen & Cocktail Adventures, will be opening early 2018. BCK is a neighborhood restaurant featuring nostalgic American fare. It highlights the owners’ diverse backgrounds and eclectic styles. It’s going to bring back those fond childhood memories everyone has through food & drink.
Houston has been great to us and we plan to expand here and greater Texas areas. This industry has always been exciting and we look forward to growing our brands.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4310 Westheimer Rd.
- Website: www.bosscatkitchen.com
- Phone: (281)501-1187
- Instagram: bosscatkitchen
- Facebook: bosscatkitchen
- Twitter: bosscatkitchen
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
