Carol and I were married in November of 1984. Life has taken us in many different directions over the years. From Midlothian and Broadview to Lombard to Batavia, we've been all over the Chicago area. We moved to Big Rock in 1997 with our two boys, Tom Jr. and Anthony.
Our most recent turn of events landed us here in Waterman at Tuma's Depot. We loved the small town atmosphere and the rustic look and feel of the bar. After very few changes to the bar itself, Houlahan's Tavern & Grill opened it's doors on June 9th, 2000 without the 'grill'. We spent the first three months converting the backroom to a full service kitchen, building a small selection of menu items, and getting to know our customers and the community. September of 2000 we opened the grill and became 'fully operational'. Not counting the four of us, we started with two bartenders and two cooks. We were very fortunate that the good people of Waterman welcomed us with open arms from day one and continues to make us part of the community.
After about two years of trying to feed our many customers with only six tables, we purchased the building next door and converted the two bedroom apartment in the rear of the building into a large dining room that seats forty-four. Over the years our business has continued to grow to what we are today. Now, with more room, a larger staff, and a rather extensive menu, our facility allows us to accommodate bigger crowds and book larger parties in our dining room. We host meetings for various clubs and organizations. We are the official "watering hole" for the
'Northern Illinois Outlaws', a cowboy mounted shooting club.
On June 9th, 2010 we reached our ten year anniversary. Some things have changed, both our boys are now in college, Carol has retuned to nursing full time and as for me, moving barrells of beer isn't as easy as it used to be. But its still fun planning the menu, mingling with our customers, and our current staff is better than ever.
To our long time customers, we say thank you for your continued support especially in this tough economy. To our newer customers, let us get to know you better and continue to be of service to you. And to those who don't know us yet, stop on in and say hello, we look forward to meeting you, talking with you, and serving you.
As always, your comments and suggestions are welcome.
Thank you Waterman for our
first ten wonderful years!
Tom & Carol
Home
208 W. Lincoln Hwy, Waterman, Illinois 60556 (815) 264 - 3333
