ABOUT: I met Barkin Creek Dog Kitchen & Bath owner Flint Beamon on the streets of New York City over a dozen years ago and the Georgia native’s Southern charm and inviting smile remain the same. Flint worked in hospitality, cultural programming, the art world, events and publicity in NYC and then Los Angeles before settling in Austin. “My husband, Jeff, is a UT Alum who grew up in San Antonio and has always loved Austin, so we bought a house here to be closer to family in 2011,” he shares. “The house has been a passion project and where we always came to relax from either NYC or LA. As the idea of Barkin’ Creek grew and grew in our heads, we knew the business had to be launched in Austin, where over half of households have a pet! Plus, as our house started to become more and more like home for us, getting on a plane to go back to our 9 to 5 jobs just wasn’t appealing anymore. We made the big and final move in 2014. I’ve never looked back. I love Austin: everything it was and everything it is becoming.” They opened their first and flagship Barkin’ Creek on South Lamar in 2018 and just recently opened their latest at the Domain Northside, which boasts the largest and most modern dog spa in Austin.
When not working he’s hanging out with his own dogs, Pitbull rescues Jax and Bea and says he likes to “Eat. Hike. And some more,” explaining, I’m a foodie at heart and Austin has the most incredible epicurean discoveries everywhere you turn. It’s a food lover’s dream come true.” And, for to balance his love of food he’s a fan of Austin’s outdoor activities. “Thankfully we live in Barton Hills close to the Ann and Roy Butler Trail that circles Lady Bird Lake. There is nothing better than that trail in my opinion. It gives us a breathtaking view of the city and allows us to run into friends while we stroll around. Plus, there’s a ton of dogs, so it’s always a good time for me!”
NEW TOY: Her name is Gita, she’s a robot that trails Flint with things he doesn’t want to carry. You can also find Gitas shuttling between official poop stations at the Domain
SOCIAL: @barkin_creek
FAVORITE QUOTE (Instead of WORDS TO LIVE BY): I would be remiss if I didn’t say that Amanda Gorman has stolen my heart. I love being transported into the world as she sees it through her eyes. One of my faves from her is: “There is always light. If only we’re brave enough to see it. If only we’re brave enough to be it.” -Amanda Gorman
WHAT I’M OBSESSED WITH
- My dogs (obviously)
- Barkin’ Creek
- Cooking for & hosting guests at our home
- Austin sunsets in our front yard which Jeff and I call the “Golden Hour”
- Exploring the trails if Austin