Finding Balance and Building Community: How Sabrina Boudreau-Gullace Is Redefining Restaurant Culture at Park Social
Running a restaurant is never easy — but for Sabrina Boudreau-Gullace, owner of Park Social in Neptune, NJ, it’s about more than great food and full tables. It’s about heart, resilience, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome.
In this episode of Grit Won’t Quit, host Tom Mirabella sits down with Sabrina to talk about her first year in business — from designing a neighborhood bistro with personality to learning how to navigate the pressures of entrepreneurship with grace.
Building a Bistro Without Borders
Sabrina opened Park Social with a vision that went beyond a specific cuisine or concept. “I didn’t want to be niche,” she explained. “I wanted something from every category to please all different kinds of people.”
That mindset shaped what’s now a standout destination in Neptune: a cozy, stylish bistro that serves everything from fresh Atlantic Offshore seafood to local meats from Butcher Block. The restaurant’s atmosphere — warm, modern, and inviting — reflects Sabrina’s belief that good food should bring people together without pretension.
Even the branding tells a story. The “PS” logo and signature pigeon motif symbolize connection and personality — small touches that make Park Social instantly recognizable and distinctly hers.
Facing the Pressures of Restaurant Ownership
As a first-time restaurant owner, Sabrina quickly learned that entrepreneurship is equal parts passion and perseverance.
“It’s a lot of pressure,” she admitted. “Everyone has opinions — guests, employees, even strangers. And when you pour your heart into something, criticism can really sting.”
She recalls reading early reviews late at night, second-guessing decisions, and feeling the weight of every comment. But those moments didn’t stop her — they motivated her. “I had to toughen up,” she said. “Now I take the feedback, learn from it, and move forward. You can’t let negativity define you.”
Leading With Heart
One thing that sets Park Social apart is how Sabrina treats her team. In an industry known for burnout, she intentionally closes two days a week so her staff can rest and recharge. “They’ve been with me since day one,” she said proudly. “I wouldn’t be able to do this without them.”
That loyalty shines through in the restaurant’s service. Whether it’s the chef preparing a custom vegan dish on the spot or creating a special horseradish sauce for a guest, Park Social’s staff goes above and beyond to make people feel at home.
“We didn’t want to be pretentious,” Sabrina shared. “It’s about mutual respect and making every experience special.”
Adapting to Challenges
Sabrina’s journey hasn’t been without obstacles. From leaky roofs to inflation, she’s faced the unexpected realities of business ownership head-on.
“Running a restaurant is like owning a house,” she laughed. “When something breaks, it’s on you to fix it.”
Even as food costs rise, she refuses to compromise on quality. “We don’t want customers to feel that burden,” she said. “We just work around it and focus on consistency.”
Empowering Women in Business
As a woman-owned business, Sabrina understands the importance of representation — especially in a male-dominated industry. She’s had her share of doubters, but her response is simple: “You can do it.”
Her message to other aspiring entrepreneurs — particularly women — is one of confidence and courage. “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t,” she said. “And if they do, do it better.”
What’s Next for Park Social
Looking ahead, Sabrina isn’t rushing expansion — she’s focused on perfecting what she’s built. From holiday events and private parties to Sip & Shop gatherings and a newly finished outdoor lounge, Park Social is becoming a hub for the community.
“I want to make this location the best it can be,” she said. “We’re not just serving food — we’re creating experiences.”
Connect with Park Social
📍 Neptune, NJ
🌐 parksociallounge.com
📸 Instagram: @parksocial_nj
💬 Facebook: Park Social New Jersey
Listen to the Full Episode
🎧 Tune into Grit Won’t Quit to hear Sabrina’s full story — her insights on leadership, her lessons in resilience, and her message for anyone daring to chase their dream.
This podcast episode was filmed at Wingman Planning in Belmar.
