What's Happening?
Melissa Strong has announced the sale of her Estes Park restaurants, Bird & Jim, The Bird’s Nest Café, and The Nest Above event venue, to her longtime business partner, John Witmer. The announcement was made during a live taping of KUNC’s 'In the NoCo'
with radio host Erin O’Toole. Strong, a former elite sponsored rock climber, opened Bird & Jim six months after a catastrophic electrical accident in 2017 that severely injured her hands. The restaurant project became a significant part of her recovery, allowing her to focus on its development while healing. Strong explained that the demands of owning and operating the restaurants, coupled with her ongoing recovery and health challenges, led to her decision to sell. Witmer, who has been involved with Bird & Jim since its inception and developed its culinary and wine programs, will now become the full owner of what will be known as the Estes Park Bird Family Restaurants. He plans to open a new restaurant concept, Brunch Above, on September 3.
Why It's Important?
This transition marks a significant shift in the Estes Park restaurant scene, with a well-established local business changing ownership. For Melissa Strong, the sale represents a personal milestone, allowing her to prioritize her health and continued healing after a life-altering accident. Her journey highlights the resilience required to overcome severe physical trauma and the complex decisions involved in business ownership, especially when personal well-being is at stake. For John Witmer, taking full ownership provides an opportunity to expand the Bird Family Restaurants, introducing new concepts like Brunch Above and bringing in experienced culinary talent such as chef Rob Corey, who has a background in Michelin-starred restaurants. This move could enhance the culinary offerings in Estes Park, potentially attracting more diners and contributing to the local economy. The story also underscores the demanding nature of the restaurant industry and the personal sacrifices often made by entrepreneurs.
What's Next?
John Witmer will assume full ownership of Bird & Jim, The Bird’s Nest Café, and The Nest Above, operating them under the new umbrella of Estes Park Bird Family Restaurants. His immediate plan includes the opening of Brunch Above, a new restaurant concept, on September 3. This new venture will be located on the second floor of The Bird’s Nest Café, in the space previously occupied by The Nest Above event venue. Witmer has also brought on veteran chef Rob Corey, known for his experience in Michelin-starred restaurants, to join the team, signaling a potential elevation of the culinary experience. Melissa Strong will continue her healing journey and focus on other endeavors, including her memoir, 'Climbing Through.' The community will likely observe the impact of these changes on the local dining landscape and the evolution of the Bird Family Restaurants under Witmer's leadership.
Beyond the Headlines
Melissa Strong's narrative extends beyond a simple business transaction, delving into themes of identity, resilience, and the profound impact of trauma. Her initial passion for rock climbing, which shaped her identity and relationships, was severely threatened by the 2017 accident. The act of opening Bird & Jim became a coping mechanism and a path to recovery, demonstrating how professional pursuits can intertwine with personal healing. The decision to sell, while difficult, reflects a deeper understanding of self-care and the importance of knowing when to 'let go' for one's well-being. This story offers a powerful reflection on how individuals adapt to life-altering events, redefine their capabilities, and find new forms of strength. It also subtly highlights the ethical considerations of entrepreneurship, particularly the balance between business demands and personal health, and the responsibility towards employees. The integration of a new, highly experienced chef like Rob Corey under Witmer's ownership could also signify a broader trend of culinary talent seeking opportunities in smaller, community-focused markets.
