Meet Shorebird Restaurant | Californian Coastal Eatery

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

Hi Shorebird, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The success of the Shorebird Restaurant and the Wild Thyme Restaurant Group is a testament to the culinary and cultural diversity that inspires our brands. Our journey is deeply rooted in the richness of flavors from different corners of the world, and we are committed to uniting people through shared dining experiences​.
From the fresh, locally sourced ingredients that inspire our menus to the innovative and creative cuisine that is served at our tables, the Wild Thyme Group’s success would not be possible without the diverse culinary traditions that influence our dishes. This includes everything from the comfort of home-grown American flavors to the vibrant tastes of the Pacific and beyond. For instance, the menu at the Shorebird Restaurant showcases a wide range of dishes from tempura-battered avocado and Japanese Black Cod to Bison Short Rib and Faroe Islands Salmon Mignon​​.

The role of the Wild Thyme Group’s incredible staff can’t be overstated. Their dedication, knowledge, and passion for delivering memorable dining experiences are truly the heart and soul of our brands. Without their tireless efforts, the vision of Wild Thyme Restaurant Group and Shorebird wouldn’t come to life.

Finally, credit should also be given to the amazing customers of the Shorebird Restaurant and the Wild Thyme Restaurant Group. Their willingness to explore new flavors, their appreciation for the dining experiences created, and their constant support for the brand make the work incredibly rewarding. The journey of these restaurants is not only about the group itself but also about the community they serve. So, here is to the diverse culinary influences, the dedicated staff, and the wonderful customers who are integral to our story.

What should our readers know about your business?
At the heart of the Wild Thyme Restaurant Group is our passion for creating memorable dining experiences. One of our most successful ventures that embodies this passion is the Shorebird brand. As a brand, Shorebird has become synonymous with fresh, high-quality cuisine and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere.
What sets Shorebird apart is our dedication to providing an authentic, welcoming experience for our guests. From our Newport Beach location to our Sedona establishment, and with exciting plans to expand into Palm Desert and San Diego Seaport Village, each Shorebird restaurant is designed to capture the spirit of its locale while maintaining the quality and charm that our guests have come to expect from us. What truly distinguishes Shorebird from others is our seamless fusion of culinary artistry and relaxed coastal ambiance. Each dish we serve is a symphony of flavors, crafted with a passion for gastronomy and an unwavering dedication to quality. We bring the farm and the ocean to your table, using locally sourced ingredients that not only ensure freshness but also tell a story of the land and the community.

We take immense pride in our menu that boasts a careful selection of dishes, each thoughtfully prepared with locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting local communities. Our restaurants are not just places to eat; they are places where people come to enjoy the company of friends and family, to celebrate, and to create cherished memories.

Getting to where we are today was not without its challenges. The restaurant industry is highly competitive and constantly evolving. But we have always been guided by our commitment to excellence and our desire to create a unique, enjoyable dining experience. These values have helped us overcome obstacles and continue to drive our growth.

One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned along the way is the importance of staying true to our brand while also being adaptable. We’ve learned to listen to our guests, to take their feedback on board, and to constantly strive to improve. We’ve also learned the importance of our team, whose hard work and dedication are the backbone of our success.

Shorebird is not merely a destination but a sensory voyage that transcends the boundaries of traditional dining. We are a celebration of flavors, a symphony of uplifting interiors, and a tribute to the joy of togetherness. We are not in the business of serving food; we are in the business of crafting experiences that tantalize the palate, warm the heart, and nourish the soul.

As we look towards the future, we are excited about expanding the Shorebird experience to new locations. We are committed to staying true to our core values, to pushing ourselves to be better, and to continue providing unforgettable experiences for our guests.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
During your week-long trip in the Newport Beach area, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a mix of beachside relaxation, exciting nightlife, and incredible dining experiences.
Start your trip with a visit to the beautiful Newport Beach itself. Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand during the day, and in the evening, make your way to the Shorebird Restaurant in Newport Beach. This restaurant offers a variety of delicious menu items including starters like Avocado Fries and Japanese Black Cod, sushi rolls like the Balboa Roll, signature taco platters, and specialties like Chilean Seabass and Bison Short Ribs​.

Another day, head out to explore the Balboa Peninsula, home to the historic Balboa Pavilion, the Balboa Fun Zone with its iconic Ferris wheel, and the Balboa Island Ferry. For a unique experience, you can rent a Duffy boat and explore the harbor at your own pace.

If you’re interested in shopping, visit Fashion Island, an open-air lifestyle center with a mix of designer and boutique shops. You can also visit the South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States.

For another culinary experience, plan a visit to the Kai Lounge, a modern Japanese bistro in Huntington Beach. Located on the top floor of Pacific City, the restaurant serves flavors of Tokyo and strives to deliver a remarkable experience with traditional flavors presented in unconventional ways​. Note that Pacific City itself is a vibrant outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment center in Huntington Beach​.

For outdoor enthusiasts, you can plan a trip to the Crystal Cove State Park, which offers beautiful hiking trails and beaches. For more adventure, you can take a two-hour drive east to Joshua Tree National Park, known for its desert landscapes and unique Joshua Trees.

On your way back to Newport Beach, stop by Laguna Beach to visit the Laguna Art Museum and walk around Heisler Park for stunning ocean views. You could also make a visit to the Pageant of the Masters, a unique live art event if it’s happening during your stay.

Lastly, if you’re interested in the wine scene, you can take a two-hour drive north to the Temecula Valley Wine Country, which offers a variety of wineries and tasting rooms.

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?
We truly believe that the success of our restaurant is due to the collective effort of every member of our staff. From the front of house to the back of house, from management to the corporate team, each person plays an important role in making our restaurant successful.

Our team is made up of individuals who are passionate about what they do and are dedicated to providing the best possible experience for our guests. We work together, day in and day out, to ensure that every aspect of our restaurant is running smoothly and that our guests are happy.

It’s important to recognize that we can’t do it all with someone missing. Each person’s contribution is valuable and necessary for our success. It’s an honor to work alongside such talented and committed individuals, and I believe that our teamwork and dedication are what sets us apart in the industry.

I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and look forward to continuing to work together to make our restaurant even more successful in the future.

Website: https://shorebirdrestaurant.com/

Instagram: @shorebirdrestaurant

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wildthyme/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063458595204

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/shorebird-newport-beach-2