As the host of the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, I have the pleasure of bringing you new and exciting episodes every week, showcasing the incredible people, places, and events in Scottsdale. Today, I am delighted to be sitting down with Peter Newlan, the Chief Experience Officer of Birdcall, a fantastic all-natural chicken restaurant located right here in Scottsdale on Scottsdale and Shea.
I must say, I absolutely love Peter’s title. Chief Experience Officer. It’s so unique and inspiring. It makes me wish I had a title like that in my own life. But let’s talk about Birdcall. It’s not just about their delicious and healthy food, although that is a major plus. What truly sets them apart is their deep connection to the community.
Everything about Birdcall, from the artwork to the spices they use and the bread they serve, is locally sourced from the valley. This speaks volumes about their commitment to supporting local businesses and showcasing the essence of the community through their restaurant.
I want to express my gratitude to Peter for taking the time to chat with us.
Peter’s journey in hospitality began unexpectedly. While biking home from school one day, he stumbled upon a small burger restaurant called Park Burger. As he sat inside, surrounded by people enjoying themselves, he felt an indescribable sense of connection and community. That experience sparked something within him, a realization that hospitality is more than just serving food—it’s about creating a special atmosphere where people can find solace, happiness, and a sense of belonging.
Peter’s passion for hospitality led him to join forces with his partner, Jean-Philippe Failyau, a classically trained chef. Together, they founded Birdcall with a shared belief that attention to detail can truly make a difference in the dining experience. They recognized that enhancing hospitality involves bringing together people with different skills and focusing on various aspects of the restaurant.
Peter emphasizes that restaurants have the power to make a positive impact on people’s lives. Whether someone walks through the door on their best day or their worst day, it’s the restaurant’s responsibility to make their experience a little bit better. Restaurants can become the heartbeat of a community, and that’s exactly what Birdcall aims to be.
Expanding outside of Colorado and choosing Scottsdale as their first location in Arizona speaks volumes about their belief in the Scottsdale community. They see it as an opportunity to learn from other exceptional restaurants in the area and build connections with like-minded individuals in the industry.
One thing that truly impressed me about Birdcall is their genuine dedication to being a part of the community. They are not just a satellite restaurant; they are deeply ingrained in the fabric of Scottsdale. From the local artists who create murals on their walls to the posters featuring concerts held in the area, every detail reflects their commitment to Scottsdale and its unique culture.
Peter explains that being a part of the community is not just a marketing strategy for Birdcall—it’s at the core of who they are as a company. They believe that a restaurant exists to serve the community it has the privilege to be a part of. The power of hospitality lies in the human connection and the ability to make a difference in someone’s day, no matter how small.
In line with this philosophy, Birdcall actively gives back to the community. Inspired by brands like Patagonia and their commitment to the environment, Birdcall has implemented a program where a portion of their sales goes toward school fundraisers and initiatives to fight food insecurity. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Birdcall served 250,000 meals to rural communities in need. It’s heartwarming to see how Birdcall stepped up during such a challenging time and provided nourishment to those who needed it most.
But Birdcall’s impact doesn’t stop there. Peter shares that they also prioritize sustainability in their operations. From using eco-friendly packaging to sourcing ingredients from local farmers who practice sustainable agriculture, Birdcall is committed to minimizing their environmental footprint.
I am truly inspired by Birdcall’s dedication to not only creating an exceptional dining experience but also being a force for good in the community. It’s clear that Peter and his team are driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact.
As we wrap up our conversation, I can’t help but feel a sense of admiration for Birdcall and the values they embody. Their commitment to supporting local businesses, fostering community connections, and giving back is truly commendable. I encourage all our listeners to visit Birdcall and experience not only their delicious food but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere they have created.
Thank you, Peter, for sharing your story and for reminding us all of the power of hospitality and community. It has been an absolute pleasure having you on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, and I look forward to seeing Birdcall continue to thrive and make a difference in Scottsdale and beyond.
And to all our listeners, thank you for tuning in. Remember, it’s not just about the food we eat, but also the experiences and connections we create along the way. Stay tuned for more exciting episodes coming your way, where we continue to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottsdale. Until next time, this is Alicia Haygood, keep spreading those positive vibes!