We recently connected with Wing Lam and have shared our conversation below.
Wing , we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
In the early 1980s, my two brothers and I embarked on a culinary adventure that would shape our lives and the landscape of fast-casual dining. Little did we know that opening the first Wahoo’s 35 years ago would become a journey of purpose, passion, and perseverance.
The concept of Wahoo’s was born out of a fusion of our love for surfing, a deep appreciation for diverse flavors, and a desire to create a unique dining experience. As avid surfers, we understood the importance of energy and sustenance, especially after a day riding the waves. We envisioned a place where people could refuel with delicious, healthy food in a laid-back atmosphere.
Our journey began with humble roots. In 1988, we opened the doors of the first Wahoo’s in Costa Mesa, California. The response from the community was heartening, but success didn’t come without challenges. We faced skepticism about our unconventional menu, blending Brazilian, Asian, and Mexican influences. However, we stood firm in our belief that the eclectic mix would offer a fresh and exciting alternative in the world of fast food.
As brothers, our shared vision and complementary skills fueled the growth of Wahoo’s. Ed’s expertise in the kitchen brought bold flavors to our menu, Mingo’s business acumen ensured the sustainability of our venture, and my role focused on cultivating a unique brand identity. Together, we weathered storms – both literal and metaphorical – to establish Wahoo’s as a recognizable and beloved brand.
Our purpose extended beyond serving tacos; it was about creating a community. Wahoo’s became a gathering place for surfers, locals, and food enthusiasts alike. The walls of our restaurants echoed with laughter, stories, and the vibrant energy of a diverse customers.
One of the key elements that defined our purpose was the commitment to giving back. From supporting local charities to engaging in environmental initiatives, we aimed to make a positive impact beyond our restaurant walls. This commitment to community resonated with our customers, fostering a sense of loyalty that went beyond the flavors on their plates.
Looking back on the past 35 years, I can confidently say that our purpose has evolved and deepened. Wahoo’s is not just a restaurant; it’s a lifestyle rooted in the pursuit of passion, the embrace of diversity, and the joy of connecting over a shared meal.
As Wahoo’s continues to ride the waves of change, our purpose remains steadfast. We are more than a business – we are a family, a community, and a symbol of the endless possibilities that unfold when you follow your heart and chase your dreams. The journey of Wahoo’s is a testament to the idea that purpose, like a perfect wave, is meant to be embraced and ridden with unwavering determination.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
In the world of culinary creation, my journey has been a fusion of my love for fresh, flavorful food and the profound influence of the Pacific. As the co-founder of Wahoo’s my passion for crafting dishes that reflect the vibrancy of the Pacific region has been a driving force behind our culinary philosophy.
From the very beginning, Wahoo’s was more than just a restaurant; it was a celebration of the diverse flavors found along the Pacific coast. Growing up in Brazil and later moving to Southern California, I developed a deep appreciation for the rich culinary tapestry that stretches from Latin America to Asia, with the Pacific Ocean as the common thread.
Our commitment to serving freshly made food at Wahoo’s stems from a belief that quality ingredients are the foundation of an exceptional dining experience. The Pacific offers an abundance of seafood, vegetables, and fruits, inspiring us to create a menu that captures the essence of coastal living. Each dish is a tribute to the bountiful harvest of the Pacific, delivering a burst of freshness with every bite.
The Pacific-inspired flavors at Wahoo’s are a symphony of taste, blending the bold and savory notes of Latin American cuisine with the light, aromatic accents of Asian fare. From our mouthwatering fish tacos to our signature bowls, every item on the menu reflects the harmonious marriage of Pacific-inspired ingredients.
Our commitment to Pacific-inspired cuisine goes beyond the kitchen. We source ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting sustainable practices and contributing to the communities that have inspired our culinary journey. It’s not just about serving great food; it’s about sharing the love and respect we have for the Pacific and its diverse cultures.
The freshness of our ingredients is a testament to our dedication to quality, and it resonates with our customers. Whether they’re savoring the zing of our salsa, the crunch of our slaw, or the tenderness of our fish, diners at Wahoo’s experience the Pacific on their palate.
As a co-founder, my passion for Pacific-inspired cuisine is not just a culinary preference – it’s a lifestyle. It’s about embracing the laid-back, sun-soaked spirit of coastal living and translating that into every dish we serve. Our commitment to freshly made, Pacific-inspired food is a commitment to authenticity and a celebration of the diverse, delectable flavors found along the shores of the Pacific.
In every bite, I hope our customers taste the love and passion that have fueled my culinary journey. Wahoo’s is not just a restaurant; it’s a canvas where Pacific-inspired flavors come to life, inviting everyone to join in the celebration of good food, good company, and the endless beauty of the Pacific.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Entrepreneurial Vision: I possess a strong entrepreneurial vision, the ability to identify opportunities, and the foresight to turn a concept into a successful business. This vision involves strategic thinking, risk-taking, and the ability to navigate challenges with resilience.
2. Culinary Creativity:
Given that Wahoo’s is a restaurant known for its unique fusion of flavors, I have a strong culinary creativity. This skill involves the ability to innovate in the kitchen, create distinctive dishes, and respond to evolving culinary trends while staying true to the restaurant’s identity.
3. Relationship Building and Leadership:
Successful entrepreneurs often excel in building relationships and leading teams. My ability to cultivate a sense of community around Wahoo’s may be attributed to effective leadership and relationship-building skills. This includes fostering a positive work environment, engaging with customers, and building partnerships within the industry.
These skills, combined with dedication and a passion for the culinary arts, could have significantly impacted my journey as a co-founder of Wahoo’s.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
Title: “Lessons from the Heart of the Kitchen: My Parents’ Legacy in the Restaurant World”
By Wing Lam, Co-Founder of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos
As the co-founder of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, I often reflect on the journey that led me here, and one pivotal influence stands out—the invaluable lessons instilled by my parents, who owned a restaurant and taught us everything about running one.
Growing up in a household where the aroma of freshly prepared meals lingered in the air, I absorbed more than just the scents and flavors of the kitchen. My parents, with their entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication, became my first mentors in the intricate dance of restaurant management.
The one thing that impacted me the most was their emphasis on the human connection within the restaurant business. Beyond the recipes and operational intricacies, my parents taught me the art of hospitality, genuine engagement, and the significance of creating a welcoming environment.
**1. Hospitality as a Heartbeat:**
My parents regarded hospitality as the heartbeat of our restaurant. They showed us that it’s not merely about serving food; it’s about creating an experience that lingers in the hearts of customers. From warm greetings to personal touches, they demonstrated that genuine hospitality fosters a sense of belonging and transforms a meal into a cherished memory.
**2. Personal Connections Matter:**
In the bustling world of a restaurant, my parents never lost sight of the importance of personal connections. They knew their regular customers by name, shared stories, and made everyone feel like part of an extended family. This personal touch, they believed, was the secret ingredient that transcended transactions and created lasting relationships.
**3. Adaptability and Resilience:**
Running a restaurant involves navigating constant change. My parents showed us the art of adaptability and resilience. From adjusting the menu to evolving with culinary trends, they embraced change with open arms. Their ability to overcome challenges and stay true to the core values of our restaurant became a cornerstone of our family legacy.
These lessons formed the foundation upon which Wahoo’s Fish Tacos was built. In our own venture, we strived to capture the essence of hospitality, personal connections, and adaptability that my parents so beautifully embodied.
As I walk through the bustling kitchens and vibrant dining areas of Wahoo’s today, I carry with me the echoes of my parents’ teachings. The soul of our restaurant is a tribute to the warmth and authenticity they infused into their own establishment.
In essence, the one thing that impacted me the most from my parents is the understanding that beyond the business side of running a restaurant, there beats a heart that thrives on genuine connections, hospitality, and an enduring commitment to adapt and persevere.
Their legacy lives on not just in the recipes we serve but in the way we welcome guests, build relationships, and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant
Contact Info:
- Website: Wahoos.com
- Instagram: @wahooswing
- Linkedin: Wing Lam
