Taking one Longshotz
SPRING HILL –
They took a long shot – and some flack – for opening in a tough economy. But general manager Isaac Zalta and his two business partners, front manager Samuel Ramos and kitchen manager/chef Howie Rosen, say business is booming. Their new establishment on U.S. 19 is big, clean, sports and family-oriented, and boasts “something for everyone.” Longshotz Sports Bar and Grill opened for business Sept.10.
The owners were surprised at how quickly word-of-mouth filled their 290-seat restaurant and 55-seat banquet room.
“We were going to ease into it, and didn’t tell anyone when we opened,” Zalta said. “It’s been busy since day one. Our aggressive early bird specials are targeted for retirees, we have great kid’s food, and a carefully-crafted menu.
“We did a lot of taste testing. Our food is well-seasoned but not overpowering. We’ve even made a couple of adjustments based on customer comments.”
Zalta says many repeat customers say they appreciate the good food (every item made from scratch), large portions and fair pricing. Several patrons concurred. Dottie and Clyde Day and Jack Haensler from Spring Hill were back for a second day in a row. They praised the food and said they’re coming back to try the “super nachos.”
“There are a lot of interesting things on their menu,” Dottie said. “I only get one cheat a week, and I’m going to keep coming back so I can try everything.”
In the bar area, Steve Bruno, lead vocalist for local rock band Clenchfist, brought his band mate, guitarist Pete Badiokiewiez, who ordered Longshotz’ “Fat Bastard” signature sandwich. He proved his “devour-ability” by finishing the hulking hoagie, afterwards declaring, “I think I ate too much.”
Returning patron Stephan Sanchez of Spring Hill claims a restaurant background and praised the seasoning of the shepherd’s pie and light batter of the gator tail.
“This isn’t like bar food,” he said, “it’s prepared well, and they give you enough for two people.”
The three agreed the pricing is set well.
“And Ryan is our favorite bartender,” added Bruno, referring to Ryan Alexandra Kalhorn of Spring Hill who’s been tending bar since they opened, and said she loves working at Longshotz.
Zalta states they made minor modifications to the building (formerly Saint Sebastian Belgian Micro Brewery, built new in 2004). By November they hope to add a deck, offer live entertainment, and re-open the brewery. They are currently interviewing brew masters.
“One step at a time,” Zalta explained. “First and foremost we wanted to open a family-friendly sports bar, someplace I would be happy to bring my kid to. We understand our demographic and have a lot to offer Spring Hill. We’re doing our due diligence in planning our next steps.”
Zalta says Longshotz is making an economic impact on Hernando County. They’ve hired close to 60 employees, most from Spring Hill. His staff gathers regularly for meetings and responsible vendor training (they I.D. everyone under 30).
They say they are dedicated to giving back to their community.
“We purchase from local vendors whenever possible,” says Zalta, “We sponsor two little league teams and are seeking ways to support local charities.”
Longshotz won’t say how many hi-def TVs they have; they enjoy letting people guess. Zalta’s hint: “more than 30.”
There’s a 100-inch big screen TV, video games and pool tables. Children’s games are situated so parents can enjoy a meal while watching sports and their kids. They have a full liquor bar, free wi-fi, happy hour specials from 5 to 7 p.m. and late night specials (11 p.m. to close) that include 30 per cent off any appetizer. They serve food up until closing.
Longshotz is open seven days a week from 10:30 a.m. until 2 a.m. Their Web site displays their menu, upcoming events, specials, a virtual tour, and has gift certificates for purchase. They offer takeout, can accommodate meetings of up to 55 people, and provide catering from their menu or per customer’s request. Dinner reservations can be made Monday through Thursday.
In the future Zalta would love to open more Longshotz, tailoring each to the demographic of its community. “One thing we do well is listen to our customers,” he explains, “We visit every table and ask their input on service, food, atmosphere, etc. We get good input from our patrons.”
Biz at a glance:
Name – Longshotz Sports Bar and Grill
Location – 1320 Commercial Way, Spring Hill (across from Best Buy)
Telephone – 352-610-4388
Web site – www.longshotzflorida.com
