Meet Rick & Josh | The Break Room, Owners

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rick & Josh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rick, what role has risk played in your life or career?
We Responded to 3 Questions here:
1. Risk Taking: How do you think about risk, and what role has taking risks played in your life/career?
Josh:
“For me, risk is part of the game especially in today’s fast-paced world where trends shift overnight. Launching The Break Room was about recognizing where culture is headed: people want experiences, not just places to sit and drink. I leaned into social media, local buzz, and creating a vibe that resonated with the community. Sure, there were risks, but I see risk as fuel for innovation. If you’re not willing to take chances, you’ll never catch the next wave.”
Rick:
“I see risk through a different lens calculated, thought-out, and backed by experience. Having run multiple businesses, I know that every venture carries risk, but success comes from staying grounded in core values: treat people right, deliver consistency, and build trust. The Break Room was a risk, but one rooted in knowing that if we focused on customer service and operational excellence, the community would respond.”
2. If you are a parent, what do you think is the most important thing you’ve done as a parent in terms of the impact on your children?
Josh:
“I want my kids to see that it’s okay to think differently to chase ideas, be creative, and adapt to the world as it changes. I involve them in little things like content ideas or talking about trends, so they see how modern business works. I think the biggest impact is showing them that success today isn’t about following a set path it’s about creating your own.”
Rick:
“For me, it’s about showing my kids the value of hard work, integrity, and respecting people. I’ve always believed that how you treat others defines you in business and in life. I’ve made it a point to demonstrate that success doesn’t come overnight; it comes from dedication, patience, and doing things the right way, even when no one’s watching.”
3. What is the most important factor behind your success / the success of your brand?
Josh:
“Staying relevant. The Break Room isn’t just a bar it’s an experience people want to share. I focus on keeping us connected to the culture, whether that’s through social media engagement, hosting trending events, or creating Instagrammable moments. People want to feel part of something current, and that’s been key to building our brand’s buzz.”
Rick:
“At the end of the day, it’s all about people. Trends come and go, but great service, a welcoming atmosphere, and consistency never go out of style. I’ve always led with the mindset that if you make every customer feel valued like a regular from day one they’ll keep coming back and bring others with them. That’s the foundation of The Break Room’s success.”

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We like to say we’re not your average pool hall, but the truth is, The Break Room has always been something entirely different. From the beginning, our goal wasn’t just to open another sports bar, restaurant, or pool hall. It was about reimagining what those spaces could be. For us, it was never about simply offering tables, TVs, and a menu. It was about creating a place that feels like the heart of Santa Clarita a place where people don’t just pass time, they celebrate it.
Whether someone comes in to catch a game, shoot a round of pool, enjoy a good meal, or just relax with friends after a long day, The Break Room was built to offer more than just a night out it’s designed to be an experience. We’ve worked hard to curate an environment that naturally shifts throughout the day. In the afternoons, it’s family-friendly and welcoming, where all ages can feel comfortable and enjoy time together. As the day moves on, we lean into social happy hours that bring people together, followed by game-day energy that fills the space with excitement. And when the sun goes down, The Break Room transforms again offering those late-night vibes where the music turns up, the lights dim, and the community truly comes alive.
What really sets us apart is the intentionality behind every detail. We’ve never believed in cookie-cutter hospitality. It’s important to us that every guest feels seen, valued, and part of the atmosphere we’ve built. Safety, inclusivity, and genuine connection are at the core of what we do. At The Break Room, no one is just a customer you’re part of our story from the moment you walk through the door.
We’re proud to have become the go-to spot in Santa Clarita for everything from birthdays and reunions to casual get-togethers and those spontaneous “let’s get out tonight” moments. There’s something really special about seeing people choose The Break Room not only for major celebrations, but also for the simple joy of connecting with others.
Of course, getting here wasn’t easy and we didn’t expect it to be. We knew we were building something that didn’t quite fit into a traditional category. It was a challenge to introduce a concept that people couldn’t immediately compare to something else. Balancing the dynamic of being a place that welcomes families by day and turns into a vibrant nightlife spot after hours took careful planning and a strong commitment to our vision. We also had to overcome the typical assumptions people have when they hear “pool hall” or “sports bar.”
Through it all, we stayed grounded in our core values: consistency, community, and culture. We listened to our guests, adapted where needed, but never compromised who we are. Whether it’s the quality of our food, the service we provide, or the energy in the room, we focused on delivering an experience we could be proud of every single day.
One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned is that success isn’t just about having a good idea. It’s about creating something people can truly connect to. It’s about showing up with the same passion day after day, and building a team that shares that vision. We also discovered the importance of storytelling. With the help of our marketing team, we realized that what happens inside The Break Room doesn’t have to stay within these walls. By capturing and sharing the energy, the laughter, and the moments that define us, we’ve extended our community beyond being just a local venue.
What we want people to know is simple: The Break Room isn’t just a bar, a restaurant, or a pool hall. It’s a place where people come to celebrate life’s everyday wins big or small. It’s where good food, great music, games, and real connection come together. It’s a space that changes with the day but stays true to one mission: making sure every visit feels like it mattered.
We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built, but even more excited for what’s ahead. We’re not just operating a venue we’re building a culture, a community, and a place where Santa Clarita comes alive.
At The Break Room, there’s always a reason to celebrate even if that reason is simply making the most of today.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced everything that makes this area special great food, local vibes, a bit of adventure, and plenty of ways to unwind. It’s not about tourist attractions it’s about giving them a real taste of how we enjoy life here.
We’d start the mornings at Egg Plantation, the perfect spot for a relaxed breakfast and good conversation. Each day would offer something different maybe a trip out to Castaic Lake for fishing and fresh air, or a scenic drive through Agua Dulce with a stop at Vasquez Rocks to take in those iconic views.
We’d spend a day visiting a local winery, because nothing beats slowing down with a glass of wine and great company. And of course, we’d plan a drive out to Ventura for a beach day walking the shore, grabbing lunch by the ocean, and just soaking up that classic California coastal vibe.
For some fun and friendly competition, we’d hit MB2 for mini golf, or if we’re feeling bold, dedicate a day to Six Flags for some high-energy thrills.
When the sun starts to set, that’s when the nightlife kicks in. We’d head down to Main Street for a proper bar hopping experience starting at Eighth & Rail for those classic bar feels, making a stop at Maggin’s for drinks and a lively atmosphere, and keeping the night flowing from there.
But no matter where we go, the night always ends at The Break Room. It’s where everything comes together good food, drinks, music, games, and that welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay a little longer. Whether we’re winding down or keeping the energy up, it’s the perfect spot to wrap up any night.
By the end of the week, we’d have a little bit of everything outdoor adventures, local flavors, beach days, and unforgettable nights out. That’s what I love about this area you don’t have to choose between relaxing and having fun. You can do it all, and still feel like you’re right at home.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shoutout to Those Who Make It All Possible
Our journey with The Break Room has been shaped by more than just hard work it’s been powered by the unwavering support, belief, and dedication of the people around us.
First and foremost, we recognize our families. Their understanding, patience, and constant encouragement have been the foundation beneath us. They’ve been our pillars through every late night, every challenge, and every milestone. Their love and belief in our vision reminded us why we started and gave us the strength to never give up always guiding us back to our purpose when things got tough.
We also want to highlight our incredible team. The Break Room isn’t just a place it’s a reflection of the people behind it. Our team lives out the core values we believe in every day: showing that bar food can be elevated, that great service still matters, and that creating a welcoming space for everyone is more than just a business goal it’s who we are. They bring passion to every plate served, every game played, and every guest interaction, turning simple nights out into memorable experiences.
A huge part of our growth is thanks to our marketing department. They’ve taken our vision and transformed it into a brand that speaks to people. From showcasing that The Break Room is more than just food and drinks it’s about community, connection, and culture they’ve helped us tell our story in ways we never could have alone. Their creativity and dedication have been essential in bringing our ideas to life and helping us reach beyond our walls.
Lastly, but just as importantly, we owe so much to our customers. They inspire us every day. Seeing familiar faces return, watching friends and families gather, and hearing stories of how The Break Room has become a go-to spot for celebrations or just winding down that’s what drives us. Their loyalty, feedback, and energy push us to keep evolving while staying true to our roots of quality, hospitality, and genuine connection.
At the heart of it all, The Break Room was built on values of community, consistency, and care. We believe in creating a place where people feel at home where good food, good music, and good company come together effortlessly. We couldn’t do that without the people who’ve stood with us from day one.
This shoutout is for them for believing in what The Break Room could be, and helping us turn it into what it is today.

Website: https://www.breakroomscv.com

Instagram: breakroomscv

Facebook: breakroomscv

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-break-room-santa-clarita

Image Credits
Photo Credits: In-House Brand Lab (Mario Barajas & Leire Baztarrica)