Opening its doors for the first time on a Saturday, the Cattle Club in the Billings West End welcomed customers inside to view the newly revitalized property.
For owner Sean Michael Graves, one of the biggest hurdles long before the first drink could be poured was something customers may never see: a liquor license.
“A liquor license in Billings costs about a million dollars,” Graves said. “So that’s just to get the doors open before you even start the construction, so you can just picture that.”
Graves, who operates seven other bars in Billings, said that finding a liquor license can be just as challenging as paying for one.
“It’s like a piece of real estate,” Graves said. “It’s bought and sold and traded, so you’re just at the mercy of being able to get one when you can.”
For the Cattle Club, the license came with the building. Graves noted they bought it with the location, which was previously called Peppers.
Saturday marked a new chapter for the location, as customers lined the sidewalk and filled the bar.
Customer Chad DeVries said he was glad to see new life being brought to the property. “I think the revitalization of this property is great,” DeVries said.
Graves stated he hopes the Cattle Club can bring back some of the country-western atmosphere that was once more common in Billings when he was growing up.
After navigating the licensing process, renovations, and preparations needed to open the business, Graves said one of the most rewarding parts is finally getting to see customers experience the finished product.
“To see their eyes look at the transformation, but also see something that’s completely different in our community,” Graves said.
