From Horse Soldiers to Fine Dining: The Inspiring Story Behind Urban Stillhouse
St. Petersburg, FL & Somerset, KY – Urban Stillhouse isn’t just a destination for expertly crafted steaks adn a curated bourbon selection; it’s a testament to courage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of American heroes. The restaurant, with locations in Florida and Kentucky, is deeply intertwined with the story of the U.S. horse soldiers – a special forces unit who, in the immediate aftermath of 9/11, bravely rode into Afghanistan on horseback. We spoke with owner Meredith Koko about how this remarkable story reshaped her life and launched a unique culinary venture.
(Image: Meredith Koko, owner of Urban Stillhouse, holds a bottle of Horse soldier Bourbon. Photo: Jonathan Hare Photography)
Koko’s journey began not in the restaurant industry,but in the fast-paced world of Manhattan finance. However, a chance encounter with the founders of Horse Soldier Bourbon – a brand born from the experiences of those very horse soldiers – dramatically altered her path.
“I was working in finance in New York when I met the guys behind Horse Soldier Bourbon,” Koko explains. “Their story was just… captivating. Thes incredibly brave men, their bond forged in the crucible of war, and their commitment to giving back. It was a story that needed to be told.”
The Horse Soldier story is one of extraordinary valor. Deployed to Afghanistan shortly after 9/11, this team of Green Berets partnered with Afghan Northern Alliance fighters. facing challenging terrain, they uniquely utilized horses to navigate the mountains and quickly respond to critical situations. Their bravery and unconventional tactics played a pivotal role in the early stages of the conflict.
But the story doesn’t end on the battlefield. Persistent to honor their fallen comrades and support veteran causes, the horse soldiers channeled their experiences into creating a premium bourbon. Koko was drawn to their mission and, ultimately, became a key partner in expanding their vision.
“It wasn’t just about creating a great bourbon,” Koko emphasizes. “It was about honoring the sacrifices made and supporting the veteran community. That resonated deeply with me.”
This commitment to honoring the horse soldiers and their legacy is woven into the very fabric of Urban Stillhouse. The restaurants serve as a gathering place to share their story,offering a unique dining experience that blends fine cuisine with a powerful narrative.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we delve deeper into the culinary experience at Urban Stillhouse and Koko’s vision for the future.
Keywords: Urban Stillhouse, Horse Soldier Bourbon, Meredith Koko, Restaurant, Bourbon,
