Meet Jonathan Cottrell

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

Hi Jonathan, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When reflecting on the thought process behind starting our own business, especially GYM Bar, Erik and I drew on our diverse experiences and passions. Both of us have successfully launched and managed businesses before, but this venture is our first in the hospitality industry, which brings its own unique challenges and rewards.

For me, it was about exploring a new entrepreneurial avenue that aligns with our personal interests and community involvement. Having a background in tech startups, I’ve always been driven by a desire to innovate and create spaces that bring people together. The opportunity to own GYM Bar felt like a natural extension of this passion. It’s a place where sports and the LGBTQ community intersect, offering a sense of camaraderie and inclusiveness that resonates deeply with both Erik and me.

Erik, with his extensive background in sports and marketing, saw GYM Bar as a chance to merge his professional expertise with his love for the community. His longstanding involvement with the Dodgers and his commitment to LGBTQ representation in sports provided a strong foundation for this new venture. We both felt that GYM Bar could become more than just a bar; it could be a community hub that celebrates diversity and fosters connections.

Our decision was also influenced by a deep personal connection to GYM Bar. Erik has been a patron since its early days, and the bar has always been a special place for him. When the opportunity arose to take over the ownership, it felt like a chance to give back to a community that has given us so much. We wanted to ensure that GYM Bar continues to be a welcoming space for everyone, maintaining its legacy while also elevating it to new heights.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
GYM Bar is a unique and vibrant LGBTQ sports bar located in the heart of West Hollywood. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating an inclusive space where everyone feels welcome, whether they’re passionate sports fans or just looking for a friendly place to hang out. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of sports, from men’s and women’s sports to international games, ensuring every fan feels at home.

One of the things we are most proud of is the sense of community we’ve fostered. GYM Bar isn’t just a bar; it’s a gathering place where people can connect, celebrate, and support one another. We’re excited about the enhancements we’re making to the bar, from upgrading the menu and restrooms to improving the A/V system and overall ambiance. Our goal is to elevate the experience while preserving the welcoming, fun atmosphere that GYM Bar is known for.

Getting to where we are today has been a journey filled with both excitement and challenges. Transitioning into the hospitality industry was a new venture for both Erik and me. While Erik’s extensive experience in sports marketing and my background in tech startups provided a solid foundation, the bar industry brought its own set of challenges. We overcame these by leaning on our strengths, learning quickly, and surrounding ourselves with a supportive team.

One key lesson we’ve learned is the importance of community and connection. Building strong relationships with our patrons and staff has been crucial to our success. We’ve also learned the value of adaptability and staying true to our vision while being open to feedback and new ideas.

We want the world to know that GYM Bar is a place where everyone is welcome. Our mission is to create a space where people can come together, enjoy great food and drinks, and feel a sense of belonging. We’re dedicated to celebrating diversity and fostering a supportive community, and we’re excited to continue growing and evolving GYM Bar into a beloved West Hollywood institution.

Our story is one of passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to our community. We’re here to provide a space where everyone can feel at home, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the vibrant West Hollywood landscape.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
GYM Bar WeHo of course for some excellent burgers (Wagyu Beef and Beyond Burgers are two great options), and delicious cocktails or fresh draft beer! And then we’d stop at Bottega Louie for some dessert (the best Macarons!) and end the night at Mother Lode, a great dive bar on the main West Hollywood strip. The people watching in West Hollywood is amazing, and over my years here I’ve seen it really develop into a very friendly and welcoming environment.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! Our success with GYM Bar is thanks to the incredible support of many people.

First, a huge shoutout to our families. Their unwavering love and support have been our foundation. We also want to recognize the founding owners of GYM Bar for trusting us to carry forward their legacy.

Our friends, colleagues, and minority investors have been invaluable, offering advice, resources, and unwavering belief in our vision.

Lastly, we owe a huge thanks to the vibrant LGBTQ community in West Hollywood. Your spirit and support drive us to make GYM Bar a cherished community hub.

We’re deeply grateful for everyone’s efforts and encouragement. Thank you!

Website: gymbarweho.com

Instagram: wehogymbar

Facebook: https://facebook.com/WeHoGYMBar

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gym-bar-weho-west-hollywood-3?osq=gym+bar+weho 

Image Credits
Jonathan Cottrell