NYC’s First Dog Cafe Reopens with $250K Raised from Locals’ Donations
It’s a dog lover’s dream come true as NYC’s first dog cafe, Boris & Horton, reopened its doors this week after a successful fundraising campaign. The cafe, co-owned by Logan Mikhly and her father, Coppy Holzman, had announced its closure earlier this year due to financial difficulties. However, the outpouring of support from the local community has allowed them to continue serving dog-loving New Yorkers.
Logan Mikhly expressed her excitement about the reopening, likening it to returning to school after a summer vacation. The cafe owners and staff are thrilled to see their loyal customers again and cannot wait to create more memories with them and their furry friends.
Boris & Horton has two locations, one in the East Village and the other in Williamsburg, both of which reopened on Monday. Mikhly is determined to make the cafes more sustainable and ensure that they remain open for the long haul. The closure earlier this year was a tough blow for Mikhly, who felt like a business failure. However, the overwhelming support from the community has given her a renewed sense of hope.
The expenses associated with running a dog-friendly business in New York City were a significant challenge for Boris & Horton. Health Department compliance, extra staff, and additional supplies such as dishes and towels for dog messes all added up. The revenue generated by the cafes fell short of covering these expenses, leading to their initial closure.
However, the community’s response to the closure was nothing short of remarkable. Within weeks, locals raised $250,000 to save their beloved dog cafe. Mikhly was astounded by the outpouring of support and described it as beyond her wildest dreams. With the funds raised, the cafe was able to invest in necessary repairs, including new furniture, air conditioners, and paint jobs. They also hired both general and event managers to enhance the overall experience for their customers.
To ensure the sustainability of Boris & Horton, the cafe now suggests a daily visit fee of $10 for customers with dogs and $5 for those without. Additionally, they will be hosting various events in the evenings, including comedy nights, trivia competitions, and singles events. Coppy Holzman is excited about the future of the cafe and expressed his gratitude towards their loyal customers. He believes that things are going really well this week and is optimistic about the cafe’s success moving forward.
The reopening of Boris & Horton is a testament to the power of community support. It showcases the deep bond between dog owners and their pets and highlights the importance of creating spaces where they can come together. The cafe serves as a hub for dog lovers to connect, share stories, and create lasting memories. With its doors once again open, Boris & Horton is ready to continue providing an exceptional experience for both dogs and their human companions.
