On Thursday, April 14, 2022 the Douglas-Coffee County community celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting for Sparky’s, a new restaurant in downtown Douglas next to the Martin Centre at 121 Ashley Street East. Sparky’s will serve a diverse menu with house and espresso coffees and teas, beer and wine, and excellent food seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 6:30 am – 9:00 pm. Sparky’s is owned and operated by Austen Hutto along with another beloved downtown restaurant, Tip Top Deli.
Why the name Sparky’s? You may be wondering. Well, there is a very special reason. Founder and owner of Sparky’s, Austen Hutto, dedicates his classic, corner-side café to an extraordinary canine- Sparky. Days before the holiday season in 2018, Austen had noticed the mixed, brindle pit bull wandering the streets of Douglas. At only six-to-nine months old, Sparky had already endured a hard life surviving a gunshot wound and experiencing daily hunger as a homeless pup. While working at another restaurant, Austen began feeding Sparky scraps from the back door. Over the next few days, Sparky remained close, and Austen’s attachment to him increased. By Christmas, Sparky was loved in a new home, enjoying his new favorite toy- a red, squeaky nerf football.
Since those early days, Sparky has lived a normal dog’s life- chewing the occasional shoe (okay…maybe a few dozen), taking midday naps, and playing catch with Austen. Yet, some things are unique to this loveable, affectionate dog who dances in excitement around his food and has “full” conversations with Austen. He does not meet a stranger, either! Austen and Sparky welcome you and hope your experience is filled with warmth, belonging, and delicious favorites that you enjoy time after time again.
The Douglas-Coffee County Chamber of Commerce congratulates Mr. Hutto, and thanks him for the investment he is making in downtown Douglas. We have no doubt that he will have continued success! Stop by Sparky’s today to have a magical dining experience at this beautiful corner cafe! Bone-appetit!