MEET CHEF MIKE

  Meet Michael Lee, better known as “Chef Mike,” the heart and soul behind J&M Dockside. Established in 2024 and located at the Clinton Town Marina in Clinton, Connecticut, J&M Dockside is the culmination of more than 35 years of passion, dedication, and experience in the food industry.

  Chef Mike’s journey in the restaurant business began at Pocahontas Pancake & Waffle House in Virginia Beach, where owner George Zervoudakis took a chance on him, brought him under his wing, and taught him the fundamentals of working in a professional kitchen. That opportunity became the foundation of a lifelong career in food and hospitality. In late August of 2002, Pocahontas Pancakes and Waffle Shop was featured on Food Network’s “Best Of” series, where it was recognized as the “Best Pancake House in Virginia Beach”—an experience that became a memorable part of Chef Mike’s early career.

  Over the years, Chef Mike continued to grow and refine his craft, serving as a chef at the University of New Haven and working with Sodexo Food Services, which provided food services to colleges throughout Connecticut. He also served as a chef at the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts in Old Lyme, Connecticut, and made a lasting impact at J Roo’s Restaurant in North Haven, Connecticut.

After more than three decades in the kitchen, Chef Mike continues to do what he loves most—bringing people together through great food.