By Kristin Shea

Special to the Islands’ Weekly

Kristin and Tim Shea are the new owners of The Bay Cafe

We are thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of the Lopez Island community.  Upon our first visit to “The Bay” we knew it was a special place and the perfect setting to fulfill a longtime dream of owning our own restaurant.

With a combined 35 years in the hospitality industry, we are so excited to deliver quality northwest cuisine along with exceptional, personalized service.

Before signing on as the new owner of The Bay, Tim spent the last 11 years as a server, manager and maître d’ at Bis on Main in Bellevue, Wash. under the direction of owner and mentor, Joe Vilardi.

The regulars at Bis became and continue to be an extension of our family and we hope to introduce them to the island very soon.

Prior to his tenure at Bis, Tim worked for Schwartz Brothers Restaurants, as a busser, line cook, head chef and finally, a general manager.

I started my career as a hostess for Schwartz Brothers Restaurants and eventually went on to work for MTM Hotels as a director of events for The Woodmark Hotel, Hotel 1000 and The Sorrento Hotel, specializing in weddings and social occasions.

I currently work for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, a cause close to my heart.

As northwest natives, we love the outdoors – sailing, hiking with our dog, taking scenic drives and eating great food. We look forward to getting to know everyone and having the opportunity to serve you soon.

Winter hours for the restaurant will be Wednesday through Sunday, opening at 5 p.m. for dinner.

We hope to open seven days a week during the summer for dinner, lunch and weekend brunch.