Today we’d like to introduce you to Levi Tatum.
Hi Levi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
New “Rum Bar” brings island resort oasis feels to Downtown Houston.
My partners, Wes Bray and I are born and raised proud Houstonians. We met running track at the University of Houston and quickly decided that with his background in business and my experience in the industry, we could create an exceptional and original destination for our home city. We brought on our third partner, Jacob Smith, who was a captain in the Marines, as head of risk management to round out our team.
Our goal was to break the stigma around overly sweet rums and rum cocktails. We wanted to create a resort-like oasis in the heart of Downtown. We strive to bring an evolved, distinguished approach to rum culture with more than 200 hand-selected rums from around the world. We offer everything from flights to original seasonal cocktails to classic tiki drinks. We use fresh squeezed juices and original house-made Orgeats and Tinctures to ensure the highest quality, delicious cocktails. Our seasonal menus feature exciting new industry techniques and trends and encompass a wide variety of spirts, not just rum. Our culture is to come as you are and drink what you want, pocket tees or pocket protectors, everyone is welcome. We open Wednesday through Saturday at 5pm with daily specials and happy hours every day. Stay after 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights to dance the night away to the tunes of local DJ artists.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Obtaining the necessary Licensing and Permitting from both local and state governments was our initial challenge. However, with plenty of research and tons of patience, we were able to open our doors in February 2018. We quickly became a favorite spot in Downtown and even got mentioned in the GQ August 2019 print issue of “Best New Bars in America”.
We continued to develop our brand and settle into the strong Downtown community until Covid-19 hit and we were forced to close. Navigating the pandemic has been the most difficult challenge yet, especially as a new business but Downtown is roaring back and we’re proud to be a part of keeping it alive.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’ve worked in the hospitality industry for over a decade at many different establishments around Houston and was Managing Bovine & Barley when the opportunity to partner in a new concept came up. I was very nervous about being responsible for the concept and design as well as the operations but as Wes, Jacob and I started to get all the details in place and the vision started to come together the anxiety turned to excitement. I’m very proud of the work we’ve done creating an original and quality destination in the heart of Downtown. I think I’m most proud of the environment we provide for our staff and guests. It’s extremely important to me, as a lifetime hospitality professional, to create a safe and fun workplace where our team feels valued and secure.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
When we opened our doors in February 2018, our goal was to offer high-quality, original, rum-focused craft cocktails in a laid back friendly environment. Thanks to the amazing Downtown Houston community and the best team in the industry, we’ve enjoyed an amazing couple of years!
Contact Info:
- Website: Highanddryhtx.com
- Instagram: Highanddryhtx
- Facebook: Highanddryhtx
