No warning, no refunds, just a big bone of contention for staff and members.
Bark Social, the dog-friendly bar located at 3720 Main St. in Manayunk, unexpectedly closed its doors on November 21, declaring the decision to cease operations and file for bankruptcy. The announcement was made on social media, leaving members, employees, and the community shocked.
Founded in 2019, Bark Social quickly became a beloved destination for dog lovers, expanding to five locations across Baltimore, Bethesda, Columbia, Alexandria, and Manayunk.
The Manayunk venue, which opened in April 2023, offered a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces where dogs could play while owners enjoyed food and drinks from an all-day café and bar. It also featured a retail shop and regularly hosted events such as comedy shows and pet portraits.
Despite its popularity, the company stated it faced unexpected financial hurdles during a crucial growth phase. In a message to patrons, Bark Social explained that anticipated financing fell through, forcing the closure of all locations and leaving the company unable to continue operations.
The closure has sparked widespread frustration among Bark Social’s members. Subscriptions ranging from $50 per month to $1,000 annually are non-refundable. The company has directed affected members to pursue chargebacks through their banks, a process that some have called inconvenient and disappointing.
One member expressed their frustration online, saying, “I paid for the whole year upfront, and now I have to go through my credit card company to get my money back?”
The abrupt closure also blindsided employees. According to a Fast Company report, staff were notified just hours before the announcement went public. Many expressed concerns over sudden job losses and the lack of a clear plan for their future.
While Bark Social has pledged to provide resources to help displaced workers transition, critics argue the support falls short given the sudden nature of the closure.
The sudden shutdown has left a hole in Manayunk’s social fabric. Known for fostering connections among dog owners, Bark Social wasn’t just a bar—it was a unique community space. “It’s not just about the drinks or the food—it’s about the friendships we made here,” said one regular patron.
While it remains unclear if another business will take over the Main Street location, the loss of Bark Social has left its mark on both locals and the broader network of dog-friendly spaces.
🍺🐶 WHAT ABOUT THE MUTT? 🍸🍔
In the wake of Bark Social’s closure, many dog owners are seeking alternative venues to socialize with their pets. One option is The Boozy Mutt in Fairmount.
Opened in December 2023, The Boozy Mutt offers a 6,500-square-foot indoor-outdoor space where dogs can play off-leash while owners enjoy a full-service bar and restaurant. The venue features a turf-covered outdoor yard, a two-story building with a 140-seat restaurant, private event space, and a self-serve dog wash room.
On a Reddit thread discussing Bark Social’s closure, users have mentioned The Boozy Mutt as a potential alternative. One commenter noted, “I drive to Boozy Mutt a decent amount and never find the parking to be an issue. It’s not nearly as bad as other parts of the city. Always find a free spot within 1-2 blocks, if not closer, in no time. I absolutely love it there, and their staff is amazing.”
Another user added, “The Boozy Mutt has a similar setup with indoor and outdoor spaces for dogs. It’s a bit of a drive from Manayunk, but worth it.”
THE BOOZY MUTT
2639 Poplar St
(445) 223-1414
theboozymutt.com
Follow @theboozymutt on Facebook and Instagram
Be the first to comment