Executive Chef Michael Kelley began his culinary adventure in San Diego California in the early 90’s.  His love and admiration for Southern food started in the low country when he moved to Charlston South Carolina to assist in the opening of a new concept restaurant chain.  Traveling across the US the allure of the local tastes drew him to Mandeville, La., where his parents resided. It was there his passion for rich, unique local flavors came to fruition under the inspiration of many of the great Chefs of New Orleans. 

Self-taught and dedicated to learning his craft, Mike has been behind the scenes in some incredible endeavors including film production catering, music festivals and dear to his heart Disaster Response Team feeding crews and serving as the Food Safety Advisor for crews cleaning the Gulf during the spill. 

Mike has settled into the role of Executive Chef for Pat Gallagher’s Grill, his flagship has been a fun and intuitive experience learning more about the culture, the community and guests’ needs.  The people we serve are diverse and presenting them with new dishes keeps Mike studying and striving for more exciting presentations.  The bonus of embracing the people, guests and employees is a friendship he’s never found anywhere before.