Meet Edward Jonathas | CEO & Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Edward Jonathas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Edward, is there something you believe many others might not?
As the owner of Birdie Frozen Yogurt, one piece of conventional advice I disagree with is the idea that businesses should “stick to what you know” and avoid diversifying. While it’s important to have a clear vision, I believe innovation and experimentation are key to growth, especially in the food industry. Offering new flavors, unique toppings, or even seasonal menu items can help keep customers engaged and excited. Adapting to trends or exploring new ideas doesn’t dilute your brand; it strengthens it and keeps your business relevant.

What should our readers know about your business?
Birdie Frozen Yogurt is all about offering a fun, innovative frozen yogurt experience with a focus on quality, unique flavors, and a wide variety of toppings. What sets us apart is our dedication to creativity and community—we love experimenting with seasonal flavors and creating a space where customers feel like part of the Birdie family. Getting here hasn’t been easy, but perseverance, a great team, and a passion for what we do have kept us moving forward. We’ve faced challenges like balancing innovation with efficiency, but overcoming them has taught us the importance of adaptability and listening to our customers. What I want the world to know is that Birdie is more than just frozen yogurt—it’s a place for fun, connection, and a little indulgence. We’re proud of the community we’ve built and the joy we bring to our customers!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Miami for a week, I’d want to make sure we experience the city’s vibrant culture, delicious food, and beautiful scenery. Here’s how I’d break down the itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival & South Beach Vibes

Morning: We’d kick off the trip with breakfast at Big Pink for a hearty, classic diner experience.
Afternoon: We’d head straight to South Beach—beach day! Lounge in the sun, take a dip in the ocean, and people-watch on Ocean Drive.
Dinner: Dinner at Joe’s Stone Crab—a Miami classic! You can’t leave without trying their famous stone crabs and Key Lime pie.
Evening: Drinks at The Broken Shaker—a rooftop bar with a relaxed, creative cocktail menu.

Day 2: Art, Culture & Nightlife

Morning: A visit to the Wynwood, a must-see for incredible street art and murals.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Chef Creole. Nothing beats Haitian Food
Afternoon: Check out the Perez Art Museum for some culture and stunning views of Biscayne Bay.
Dinner: We’d head to Zuma, an upscale Japanese izakaya, for sushi and cocktails.
Evening: Head to LIV at the Fontainebleau for a night of dancing and celebrity sightings.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure & Local Favorites

Morning: A nature morning at the Everglades National Park. We’d take an airboat tour and spot alligators and wildlife.
Lunch: A laid-back lunch at La Sandwicherie—famous for their fresh, delicious sandwiches.
Afternoon: Explore Little Havana—stroll through the vibrant streets, check out the art galleries, and stop for Cuban coffee at Versailles.
Dinner: Dinner at The Bazaar by José Andrés for some creative Spanish cuisine with a modern twist.
Evening: Chill at Ball & Chain, a lively spot for live music, mojitos, and dancing salsa.

Day 4: Key Biscayne & Coconut Grove

Morning: We’d spend the day at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park for a relaxing beach day with scenic views of the lighthouse.
Lunch: Grab lunch at The Rusty Pelican for fresh seafood with amazing views of the skyline.
Afternoon: Explore Coconut Grove—a charming neighborhood with boutique shopping and beautiful parks.
Dinner: Dinner at Macchialina, an intimate Italian spot known for its handmade pasta.
Evening: A low-key night with cocktails at The Sylvester, a cozy spot with craft drinks and a laid-back vibe.

Day 5: Shopping & Entertainment

Morning: Start the day shopping at Lincoln Road Mall, where you can find everything from trendy boutiques to art galleries.
Lunch: We’d stop by Yardbird Southern Table & Bar for some of the best fried chicken and southern comfort food.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, exploring the stunning Italian Renaissance-style mansion and beautiful gardens.
Dinner: KYU in Wynwood for wood-fired Asian-inspired dishes.
Evening: Catch a show at The Adrienne Arsht Center for some culture, or enjoy a cocktail at E11even, one of Miami’s most exciting nightlife spots.

Day 6: Miami’s Hidden Gems

Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Sergio’s Cuban Café for some authentic Cuban food and coffee.
Afternoon: We’d go for a walk around Coral Gables—beautiful tree-lined streets, boutique shopping, and cool spots like the Venetian Pool.
Dinner: Head to Café La Trova for fantastic Cuban food and craft cocktails.
Evening: End the day with a relaxing night out in Brickell City Centre, grabbing drinks at Sugar, a rooftop bar with a panoramic view of the city.

Day 7: Day Trip to the Keys

Morning: A day trip to Key West. We’d take the scenic drive along U.S. Highway 1, enjoying the views and stopping for photos.
Lunch: Grab lunch at Blue Heaven, a quirky spot with chickens roaming around, famous for its lobster and shrimp dishes.
Afternoon: Check out Mallory Square for sunset views, live performers, and local art vendors.
Dinner: Dinner at El Siboney for classic Cuban comfort food before we head back to Miami.
Miami has so much to offer, from its cultural diversity and beautiful landscapes to its lively nightlife and mouthwatering food scene. It’s the perfect place for an unforgettable week of adventure, relaxation, and fun!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to give a shoutout to my amazing team at Birdie Frozen Yogurt. Their hard work, creativity, and dedication are the backbone of the business. From the staff behind the counter who make each visit special for our customers, to the team members who ensure the quality of every batch of frozen yogurt, they all play an essential role in our success. I’d also like to recognize the local community for supporting us and helping to create a loyal customer base. It’s their enthusiasm that inspires us to keep innovating and improving. Lastly, a big thank you to family, friends and Pastor who have guided me throughout the journey—whether through advice, encouragement, or even just sharing their own experiences. Their support has been invaluable!

Website: https://www.birdiefroyo.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdiefroyo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birdiefroyo

Other: www.instagram.com/birdiefroyopines
www.facebook.com/birdiefroyopines