Business Details
30 Years
experience
Fresh Sustainable Seafood Restaurants in Southern California
Bluewater Grill was established in Newport Beach in 1996 by partners Rick Staunton and Jim Ulcickas. Over 25 years of operation have solidified our commitment to serving pristine seafood sustainably caught and prepared with a modern twist. Our partnerships with local fishermen and suppliers ensure direct access to the freshest ingredients, including swordfish harvested via our custom-built harpoon boat, Pilikia. We prioritize responsible purchasing through certifications like the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program, aiming for 100% sustainable sourcing. Our seasonal menus reflect local availability, while our community-focused design creates a casual, relaxed dining environment.Sustainability initiatives extend to oyster shell recycling programs and eco-conscious harvesting methods. With nine locations across California and Arizona, we maintain a family-oriented culture rooted in authentic relationships with guests and team members. Our mission emphasizes fair pricing, knowledgeable service, and fostering lifelong connections through shared culinary experiences. The Newport Beach location launched the Shells for Shorelines program in 2024, recycling over 2,000lbs of oyster shells for marine restoration projects.
Services
Seafood Dining
Sustainable Sourcing
Seasonal Menus
Craft Beer Brewing
Oyster Recycling
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We've specialized in sustainable seafood since 1996
- Our Pilikia harpoon boat provides same-day swordfish delivery
- Menus change quarterly to feature seasonal local ingredients
- Certified by Monterey Bay Aquarium's Best Choices program
- Operate oyster shell recycling for marine ecosystem restoration
Associations and certifications
- Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program
Services
Seafood Dining
Bluewater Grill serves sustainably sourced seafood prepared with classic techniques and modern twists. Our menus emphasize seasonal availability and local ingredients while maintaining strict sustainability standards through certified suppliers and direct fishing partnerships.
Sustainable Sourcing
We implement rigorous sustainability practices including Monterey Bay Aquarium certification, harpoon fishing with zero bycatch, and partnerships with responsible fisheries. Our Pilikia boat provides same-day swordfish delivery using environmentally friendly methods that protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity.
Seasonal Menus
Menus change quarterly to reflect local ingredient availability, featuring hyper-local seafood and produce. This approach ensures peak freshness while supporting regional fishermen and farmers through direct partnerships that maintain consistent quality standards across all locations.
Craft Beer Brewing
Bluewater produces exclusive draft beers named after Southern California fishing spots. The High Spot line includes Blonde, Pale Ale, and Amber Ale available at all locations, with tasting flights showcasing these small-batch brews developed specifically for our restaurant environments.
Oyster Recycling
Our Shells for Shorelines initiative recycles oyster shells to create marine habitats. After curing for one year, repurposed shells support oyster bed restoration projects that improve water quality and coastal protection while promoting biodiversity in Southern California waters.
People
Rick Staunton
Co-Founder and Proprietor
Co-founded Bluewater Grill in 1996 with Jim Ulcickas. Oversees operations and sustainability initiatives. Committed to responsible seafood sourcing and community-focused restaurant development across Southern California locations.
Jim Ulcickas
Co-Founder and Proprietor
Co-founded Bluewater Grill in 1996 with Rick Staunton. Manages business expansion and vendor partnerships. Focuses on maintaining quality standards while developing innovative sustainability programs like the Shells for Shorelines initiative.
Questions
What sustainability practices does Bluewater Grill implement?
We use Monterey Bay Aquarium-certified seafood, operate a harpoon boat with zero bycatch, and recycle oyster shells for marine restoration projects.
Are menus consistent across all locations?
Menus change quarterly based on local ingredient availability, with each location featuring dishes reflecting its coastal community.
Can I purchase Catalina Rum Company products?
Yes, Catalina Rum Company bottles and boxed sets are available at all Bluewater Grill locations and El Galleon on Catalina Island.
Do you offer private dining options?
Contact individual locations about private event spaces and group dining reservations for special occasions.
How does Bluewater source its seafood?
We partner directly with fishermen and use sustainable methods like deep drop buoy fishing to ensure responsible harvesting.
