We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Rosado and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, how do you think about risk?
I think starting your own business is all about risk. Even if you are already well off financially, and don’t necessarily need that business to pay your bills, no one wants to fail. In my case I had been trying to open a bar & grill my whole life. So I put in my life savings, and sold my house and used the money I made off of it. I went all in . But personally that’s when I thrive. I’ve always been a risk taker , I want my back against the wall , I want to sink or swim. Nothing in my life has come easy so I’m not even sure what that would feel like. I have 3 young boys, selling my house was very scary, that house was supposed to help pay for their college one day, but I knew if I took this risk I wouldn’t let them down.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Well I started washing dishes at a restaurant in my hometown at 14 years old, then I started bar backing , then bartending and serving , to Management then GM, at many different establishments. Since 14 I always wanted to own my own bar and grill in my hometown. My closets friends will still tell me how proud they are that I finally did what I always said I would do. I just always loved the hospitality industry. I have 30 years experience in it when I opened my own place . I have opened many different establishments from concept to success many times. I felt as prepared as possible , all I had not done was the owner side. I thought that part would be smooth but boy was I wrong lol. I never realized everything that went into running a business especially one that involves food and liquor. But each passing year gets smoother and smoother , I’m sure I’ll have it down by the time I retire LOL. As far as my establishment, Battleground Saloon, it is La Porte’s first indoor / outdoor and family friendly bar and grill ever. I simply designed and created a place that I would like to take my kids to , to get a snack and enjoy the outside and a game on the tv while the kids run around. I wanted to create a warm, inviting place . A place that feels like going to a friends backyard BBQ, when you first get there you may only know one or two people , but by the time you leave you have made acquaintances with everyone else there and have shared a laugh. And it is that place. Everyone is so welcoming, and we have all walks of life. If your a positive person , looking for a good positive time then you are always welcome at Battleground!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to our nice local eateries. The Wooden spoon, ask for Chad the owner, he is a great guy. The Cuban Cafe,  a Cuban eatery with delicious authentic Cuban sandwiches and coffee. I would take them some of the fine dining options in town and visit my friend Joe the owner Main 101 across the street from Battleground. He is extremely hospitable and the food is amazing. Also my friends Ed and Jody Revak, the owners of Ed’s Bistro, also across the street from me. They have an amazing changing menu and also very hospitable.  

 
My sister Dhalma, my brothers Greg and Ruben, my nephews Donavan and Jayden. My girlfriend Adrianne who always helps me and is always by my side.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Well when this journey first began I felt very alone with the exception of my Mother , but since I’ve opened I have so many to thank. First my mother Zelma who has always helped and believed in me. My sister Dhalma, my brothers Greg and Ruben, my nephews. My girlfriend Adrianne who always helps and is always by my side. My loyal guests/ customers, who I now have the pleasure to call friends and last but not least , My children, Rome, Rox, & Remy , for being my constant inspiration, my drive , and the reasons I strive to succeed and be the best person I can possibly be.

Instagram: @battleground_saloon

Facebook: @Battleground Saloon

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