For over 20 years, Miguel (or Mike as many call him) Aguilar has helped to keep the awesome going on at Kelsey’s Steak House in Valparaiso.
Born in Veracruz, Mexico and raised in Aurora, IL, Mike started in the restaurant industry early.
“My dad worked in the restaurant business and I watched him,” Mike said. “He really loved it and I grew to love it, too.”
Mike came to Kelsey’s after he decided that it was time for a change. He worked at another food establishment and one day drove by Kelsey’s in 1994.
“I drove by and saw Kelsey’s and thought it looked interesting,” Mike said. “I applied and was hired and my first position was working behind the grill.”
A self-taught chef, Mike moved his way up the ranks at Kelsey’s and obtained the position of kitchen manager. His job includes (but isn’t limited to): quality control, ordering food supplies for the restaurant, and managing the hardworking, fun kitchen staff.
“Everybody gets along and we act like a family,” Mike said. “Most of our staff has been here for a long time and we joke and have fun, but when work needs to be done we don’t mess around.”
Kelsey’s is a family owned and operated business. Though not everyone there is actually related, you can feel the bond and respect between the staff members. The Hood family continues to keep this close-knit crew thriving as they hustle and bustle to serve their faithful patrons each day.
“The Hood family is very nice. They ask for our input on decisions and take what we think into consideration,” Mike said. “I like and respect that. It’s good to know that what you say can make a positive difference for others.”
Outside of work, Mike has his own business that he runs with his family: Prime Cuts Lawn Care. When he’s not working at either of his jobs, you can find him with his family.
“We love to go to dinner and go see movies. I try to spend as much time with them as I can,” Mike said in closing.
So the next time you are at Kelsey’s, remember that your meal was prepared by Mike and his awesome team. Give your compliments to the chefs.