James Rouse

Tucson, AZ (USA)
Role(s):
Founder/Owner/Principal

Horseshoe Restaurant & Saloon

Location: Tucson
Industry: Food Service/Restaurant
Year Founded: 2008
Number Employees: 1-10 people
Description: Rural restaurant and saloon is located in a community of 10,000 people with few amenities and has no competition in an approximately 12-mile radius. It sits on two acres of land to hold events with covered patio in front; BBQ grill, spit, and smoker on back patio, gaming/entertainment room for arcade games and live music/arts; a horseshoe pit for competitions; and plenty of parking. I am a musician and artist with my uncle being late jazz saxophonist Charlie Rouse. With my promotion and recording experience, I have skills facilitating musicians and shows. My partner and I also have over 6 years in restaurant experience and many other administrative and managerial skills to bring to the venue. The business has a highly visible location on the path of a popular scenic highway/national park in southwest Arizona that attracts millions of visitors a year. The business/building is currently family owned. With the father passed on, the family would like to pursue other interests, and are not as enthusiastic about promotion and marketing as is possible. Adding entertainment, arts, and events will make this restaurant a destination point for locals and visitors alike, thereby taking this existing business to the next level while providing a much-needed community and tourist venue. Major marketing and branding is needed to achieve these destination-point goals that can also be aided by teaming up with the local bed and breakfast. Restaurant serving beer and wine will have a slightly revised menu under our new ownership to include three eatery concepts in one: BBQ joint with meats and sides; affordable deli with subs, salads, burgers, and hot dogs; and a down-to-earth yet gourmet restaurant featuring fantastic views and daily specials (such as grilled quail w/sun-dried tomato couscous and grilled baby vegetables; lobster ravioli w/fresh asparagus sauce; and grilled specialty pizzas).