Downtown Dubuque has seen a revitalization over the past decade, making it a destination for visitors and locals alike. With the beautiful architecture and scenic river views, it’s easy to see why any restaurateur would consider this a prime location to expand into a successful restaurant group. For the past seven years, Barrel House has made its home on Main Street in Dubuque in what once was the showroom for Cooper Wagon Works. A far cry from buggies and wagons, Barrel House is pumping out burgers and wings instead. As one of seven locations, it is the largest of the group at around six thousand square feet and is the only location with a horseshoe bar.
Barrel House’s Dubuque location is central to many other restaurants, and the company’s vice president Chris Posey says this is a good thing. Other great places help them to strive to produce and serve great food and offer great service. Other benefits to the downtown location are the proximity to casinos, museums, entertainment venues, and many businesses. Illinois and Wisconsin are also just a bridge away from enjoying the expansive menu Barrel House has to offer.
The five locations in Iowa are owned corporately through Jimmy Holt, one of the company’s founders. The Dubuque location is joined with Marion, Coralville, and two Davenport locations. Two years ago, the business began franchising and opened up a location in Bloomington, Illinois, and is currently constructing another in Frisco, Texas. The now franchised restaurant was established in Davenport in 2011 and has been welcoming customers with a smile ever since.
The premise behind the restaurant was and still is creating a place where people feel welcome. Barrel House is laser focused on hospitality. The goal was to make the sport’s bar family friendly and make anyone who comes in feel welcome. Posey said it doesn’t matter if you are a doctor, businessman, blue color worker, or a family with kids- the goal is that everyone finds a spot to enjoy a good meal and good company.
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