About
“We absolutely must have the best culinary experience,but we want to do that in a way that’s very comfortable and approachable”“We absolutely must have the best culinary experience, but we want to do that in a way that’s very comfortable and approachable”
A Rich History
A collaboration between partners Joseph “McG” Nichol and Jordan Otterbein, River Jetty Restaurant Group (RJRG) brings extensive expertise and a depth of resources to each restaurant concept. RJRG was established in Newport Beach in 2007 with the founding philosophy of creating dining experiences that that offered inspired cuisine and exemplary service in an inviting atmosphere.
RJRG is guided by the principal of prioritizing employees, properly training them for excellence and giving them an opportunity to grow and prosper, which has shaped the company’s culture of hospitality. Dedicated to supporting the communities it serves, RJRG extends its hospitality to local schools and charities to continue to build strong local culture.
The Founders
A collaboration between partners Joseph “McG” Nichol and Jordan Otterbein, River Jetty Restaurant Group (RJRG) brings extensive expertise and a depth of resources to each restaurant concept.
Joseph “McG” Nichol
Founder/Owner
You Are One Of The Original Founders Of “A” – What Was Your Vision For These Two Iconic Newport Beach Buildings When You And Your Partners Took Over In 2006?
I used to come to The Arches with all my friends, and we would all say to each other that it was the only old school Newport restaurant that was still hanging in there – lots of the other long-time spots had closed. So, when the opportunity presented itself to take over The Arches, we jumped at it, even though none of us knew anything about the restaurant business!
We wanted to ensure that “the old Arches property” would remain a restaurant, and most importantly that it would continue to be a restaurant we all love! When we started updating the structure (we ended up doing a complete renovation), we all agreed that the goal was to be sure that when our customers walked in, it still felt like it always felt… warm, relaxed, with a cool vibe – the place where you see people you know, and meet people you want to get to know. I’m proud of what we have accomplished here – I think we did what what set out to do, and that’s pretty cool.
Favorite Food?
That’s a slam dunk, Chef’s Friday night special: Chicken Pot Pie
Jordan Otterbein
Operating Partner
Where are you from?
I was born in Arcadia, but have lived here in Newport for 48 years now, it’s a special place, I love this community.
What do you do at A?
I ensure A delivers on its promise of impeccable service and a memorable dining experience.
Why do you love food?
I love well prepared, creative food. I enjoy the social, family aspect of sharing a great meal and breaking bread with friends and family.
Why do you love A?
A has been my favorite restaurant since the day it opened. To me, it has every component of a very good restaurant ( in my humble opinion ) – excellent cuisine, awesome staff throughout, a very loyal clientele and last but not least, an ambiance and feel that is tough to beat.
First restaurant job?
I was hired as a server at the old Victoria Station in Newport, which was a train car.
Favorite ingredient and why?
SRIRACHA, I put it on almost everything – except our great steaks.
Restaurant pet peeve?
When a server says “are you still working on that? ”
Favorite thing about Orange County?
OC is the best because we are within 90 minutes of almost anything.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I have four daughters and three grandkids…when we all get together we have a lot of fun…
The Team
Matthew HardemanDirector of Operations 
Katie BraunsteinDirector of Human Resources 
Madison Otterbein HarrisPrivate Events Director 
Kathryn Riordan Public Relations and Media Manager 
Megan Otterbein RasmussenSocial Media Director 
Kimberly JepsonGeneral Manager - A Crystal Cove 
Nick DunnBar Director 
Jason HowardWine Director 
Kirk ParrishManager - A Restaurant 
Steve AckadWine Director 
Derrick SalatnayBar Director 
Roberto GomezExecutive Chef 
Elvis MoralesExecutive Chef 
Shelly RegisterCulinary Director 
Leza KirkExecutive Chef 
Ryan MurrayGeneral Manager - A PCH
Selected Press
- Newport Beach's Trendy Restaurant Scene ExplodesRead Article
- Orange County's 16 Hottest Restaurants, Summer 2021Read Article
- River Jetty Restaurant Group Opening New Crystal Cove ConceptRead Article
- 'A' New Restaurant Coming to Crystal Cove Shopping Center This FallRead Article
- The Eat Index: OC: Eat your veggies in Anaheim and new food to try at the OC FairRead Article
