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

Hi Air, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I created Morty’s Bark & Brew as a platform where dogs take center stage, where they aren’t just an afterthought but the heart and soul of our community. At Morty’s, our mission is crystal clear; to carve out a space where dogs aren’t just existing, but truly thriving in a world largely designed for humans. We are here to flip the script, ensuring our furry friends aren’t relegated to the sidelines but are celebrated as the main event. It’s all about unleashing the boundless joy, energy, and companionship that dogs bring to our lives. Let’s give back to our pups in the same generous and genuine way they give to us every day!

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?
At Morty’s Bark & Brew, we’re not just another pet-friendly establishment. What sets us apart is our approach. We allow ourselves to be forward-thinking and actively shape the future as architects of tomorrow. We enhance the connection between dogs and their humans as well as among humans by incorporating elements inspired by Animal-Assisted Interventions (AAI) principles. This is not just about innovation; it is about meeting the needs of dogs and their human sidekicks, creating a richer and more vibrant future for everyone involved.

One of the things we’re most excited about is our emphasis on creating an environment where dogs can truly thrive. From our thoughtfully designed play areas to co-mingle spaces, every aspect of Morty’s is geared towards enhancing the safety and well-being of our furry friends.

Building this unique business wasn’t without its challenges. From navigating regulations to securing the right location, it certainly had its ups and downs. While we are still in the process of securing the right location for Morty’s, our excitement and passion for our mission remain undiminished. Along the way, we’ve learned the importance of adaptability, resilience, patience, and more importantly, staying true to our vision even when faced with setbacks.

Through our journey, we’ve learned that success and timing are ours to define, not dictated by others. Morty’s isn’t just a business; it’s a vibrant lifestyle and community centered around celebrating the profound bond between dogs and their human companions.

Our story is one of passion, determination, and a genuine love for dogs, and we’re super excited to share it with the world.

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?
Absolutely! Start with Day 1: Arrival and Local Eats – Breakfast at Hell’s Kitchen for their famous Lemon-Ricotta Hotcakes, then explore the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden and snap some photos with the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry. Then head to Surly Brewing Co. for a brewery and some delicious craft beer, and enjoy dinner at Butcher & the Boar, known for their fantastic charcuterie and BBQ.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures: Hike along the trails of Minnehaha Reginal Park, where you can marvel at the beautiful Minnehaha Falls. Grab lunch at Sea Salt Eatery, located within the park, and indulge in fresh seafood. Rent bikes and explore the scenic Grand Rounds Scenic Byway, which offers over 50 miles of biking trails.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration: Visit the Minneapolis Institute of Art to admire its vast collection of artworks from around the world. Enjoy lunch at Midtown Global Market, where you can sample cuisine from diverse cultures. Take a stroll through the historic Stone Arch Bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline. Catch a show at the Guthrie Theater, known for its innovative productions and stunning architecture.

Day 4: St. Paul Highlights: Start the day with breakfast at Mickey’s Diner, a beloved St. Paul landmark known for its classic diner fare. Explore the Minnesota State Capitol and take a guided tour to learn about the state’s history and government. Then wander through Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, home to a wide variety of animals and beautiful botanical gardens. Enjoy dinner at Revival, a Southern-inspired restaurant known for its mouthwatering fried chicken.

Day 5: Day Trip to Stillwater: Explore Stillwater, a charming town on the banks of the St. Croix River, and browse the quaint shops and boutiques along Main Street. Take a scenic boat tour along the St. Croix River to admire the picturesque scenery. Dive the Dock Cafe, and enjoy delicious food with stunning views of the river.

Day 6: Urban Exploration: Visit the Mill City Museum to learn about the history of flour milling in Minneapolis. Have lunch at Spoon and Stable, a renowned restaurant serving modern American cuisine. Explore the North Loop neighborhood and check out the trendy boutiques and art galleries. End the day with dinner and drinks at Bachelor Farmer, known for its Nordic-inspired cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell: Spend a leisurely morning at Bde Maka Ska Park, where you can rent paddleboards or simply relax on the beach. Enjoy brunch at Cafe Lurcat, located near Loring Park, and savor their delicious French-inspired dishes. Take a scenic drive along Summit Avenue in St. Paul to admire the historic mansions. Bid farewell with dinner at Meritage, a French brasserie known for its exquisite seafood and oyster bar.

Note that if my best friend brings her dog with her, we’ll be certain to include all things dog-friendly. And when Morty’s Bark & Brew opens, it’ll be a must-visit spot for everyone!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a huge shoutout to Billie Groom, the brilliant mind behind UPWARD Dogology (TM). Billie is not only incredibly genuine but also has a heart as big as her intellect. Her work isn’t just inspiring; it’s filled with practical applications that truly make a difference.

And a special mention goes to Beth Miller, the ultimate dog-friendly expert. Beth’s boundless energy and unwavering passion for spreading awareness about the importance of dog-friendliness is nothing short of magical. Her dedication is truly inspiring.

Website: https://www.mortysbarkbrew.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mortysbarkbrew/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/airgustafson63/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mortysbarkbrew

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN-6kOA52uHEdJ30IrWZd6A/featured

Image Credits
Air Gustafson

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