Justin Henry, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I worked in corporate America for more than 15 years and hated almost every day of it. So, when I had to decide what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, my main goal was to find something I love. After almost a year of reflection I figured it out: My dogs and a beer. What could be better? The concept of Watering Bowl was born: A place where you could bring your best friend and have a drink with friends.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Watering Bowl is the only off-leash patio in Colorado. There are numerous restaurants and bars in town that allow dogs chained to your side, but we are the only off-leash patio in town. Everyone has heard about Watering Bowl, but until you come and actually experience the Watering Bowl, you will regret not checking us out sooner. The Watering Bowl is more than the best patio in town. We have numerous big-screen TVs, pool tables, Primos Wrestling, darts, ping pong and a full kitchen. We host all kinds of private events, such as a wedding and reception last weekend, to the Dog Days of Summer bluegrass festival.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Our customers. Absolutely. The customers are like family. Watering Bowl is the only restaurant and bar in town where 21- and 75-year-olds want to hang out together sharing a bucket of beers. Second best: I took all of my old slacks and dress shirts and gave them away. Shorts and flip flops are truly the best uniform around.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: At first, it was the barriers to entry. The legal challenge to pull off the Watering Bowl took almost three years and I do not even want to think about the money involved. In November, we will be celebrating our second year and are expanding additional locations throughout the city. Now, it’s keeping up with our growth and popularity while keeping our customers happy. Every day we have dozens of new customers and the growth is a constant challenge.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A:
Excluding my days as a bartender at a college dive bar, I had never worked in the restaurant or hospitality industry before opening the Watering Bowl. I am an accounting and finance nerd who now serves dog treats. Watering Bowl is pretty straight-forward. We are a restaurant and bar with an off-leash patio. Plain and simple. Most people are surprised by the quality of our food and how clean everything is. It’s not by coincidence. My staff and I work very hard to provide an unparalleled experience for dog lovers and their friends.
Profile
Business: Watering Bowl
Address: 5411 Leetsdale Drive
Hours: 4-midnight, Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Fridays, 11-2 a.m. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays
Founded: 2013
Contact: 720-217-7838,
Employees: 9
