PIMCO executive John Murray, who also serves on the Working Wardrobes nonprofit board, shares some of his favorite places in town.
By Sharon Stello
Growing up in a military family, John Murray moved from place to place across the nation and around the world before also serving in the Army himself. This background has given him a deep appreciation for the military men and women who serve our country.
Through his job at PIMCO, leading the company’s private commercial real estate investment business on an international level, the Newport Beach resident became a member of PIMCO’s veterans group and has partnered with Working Wardrobes for years on the OC nonprofit’s veteran initiatives, including career panels and interview workshops.
He now serves on the board of Working Wardrobes, which provides community members with resources, skills and confidence to find quality jobs and achieve lasting economic stability. Among the organization’s work, business attire is provided to those who need it for job interviews and working in an office.
“I’ve seen Working Wardrobes’ direct impact for veterans, but have also seen its broader mission in action addressing the unique barriers of other groups, including victims of abuse or individuals leaving the justice system,” Murray says. “Working Wardrobes is transforming lives by giving people a ‘hand up’ rather than a ‘hand out,’ and this is what really resonates with me.”
Murray lives in the Fashion Island area with his wife of 20 years, Sindy, and their two teenagers, Makena, 15, and Beckett, 14. While Murray loves paddleboarding and improving his golf game, he’s currently focused on his kids, being a supportive dad and helping take them to activities.
But no matter what he’s doing, this coastal city makes it that much more enjoyable. Murray, who has traveled around the world, says Newport is one of the best places to live.
“It’s hard not to mention the weather, but it goes beyond that,” he says. “The city itself has been planned so well: Newport Beach offers incredible parks, restaurants and schools, but all without the hassle of a typical city [such as] traffic [and] messy infrastructure. I also think that Newport Beach offers a tremendous amount of diversity—people from all over the world come here to live and visit, so you meet a lot of interesting people.”
Beach Time
When seeking out a stretch of sand, Murray can often be found at CHINA COVE. “Our family loves this small beach,” he says. “It’s a little tricky to get to, so it’s less crowded. Plus, you’re on the marina side, so you get calm water and a great view.”
Brunch With a View
THE BEACHCOMBER AT CRYSTAL COVE is at the top of Murray’s list for a morning meal just steps from the ocean. “[This one’s] also a bit tricky to get to, but it’s worth the trip as it’s one of the only truly beachfront brunch spots out there,” he says.
On a Roll
For sushi, Murray heads to BLUEFIN. “Of all the sushi options in town, this is our favorite,” he says. “We love to sit at the bar and defer to our favorite chef—Shinya—for a quasi-omakase meal.”
Family Meals
When dining together at THE ORIGINAL MAMA D’S ITALIAN KITCHEN on the peninsula, Murray’s family likes to order the Sausage and Chicken Capri. “This is our favorite family restaurant—the food is amazing and the service is even better,” Murray says.
Above Par
For spending time on the green, Murray prefers PELICAN HILL GOLF CLUB. “It’s hard to beat taking golf lessons at Pelican Hill, where the driving range offers an incredible ocean view,” he says. “Plus, we love our instructor, Tim Mitchell.”
