A story written on the water’s edge

Mike started his journey with us as a very drunk glass collector back in 2018 and ended up a very drunk General Manager years later…only kidding!! Mike is one of life’s natural progressors…anything you task him with he will roll his sleeves up and get the job done. Having quickly climbed the ladder to assistant manager, Covid 19 hit us all and then when we were just about to re-open, the then GM decided immediately it wasn’t right anymore, not being phased by this Mike came in and took the bull by the horns as it were and what a great job he did running the front of house team, a blessing in disguise some have said!!

A great leader, fantastic people’s person and overall good egg, he is the perfect fit for our team. “He’s like a son to us” you will often hear Jo & Paul say as he has grown into the fine young man he is today.

January 2026 saw Mike and his lovely fiancée Leah leave us for a sabbatical down under but we are very pleased to say that he will be back adorning the walls of the restaurant early March 2027. With Mike’s return, we will continue to go from strength to strength and don’t forget to come and say hi when he returns but don’t get him talking or you will never escape!!!

Natasha has been an integral part of The Waterside story since the very early foundation stages way back when she worked as waiting on staff. After taking some time away to raise her three lovely children, life is never quiet for her but she still manages to juggle family and work exceptionally well. Due to our continued success, we found the need for a business manager and there was nobody better placed than Natasha. “I keep all the cogs turning behind the scenes” is a statement she tells everyone (she actually does!!) and her main focus is to work alongside Jo and Paul ensuring everything runs as smoothly as possible. “I absolutely love what I do and, most of all, I love The Waterside. It’s a truly family-run, close-knit team, and I feel incredibly proud to be part of it”. As she often states “I will be here right through to retirement”, and she wouldn’t have it any other way!

Kaylei started her hospitality journey at 15 alongside school, where, according to her, she quickly discovered a passion for creating amazing dining and event experiences. Continuing with her higher education she continued tirelessly working as a waitress at another local establishment before joining us at the tender age of just 21 years old.

“Within a short space of time I realised that I had instantly fell in love with its family atmosphere and welcoming team” Kaylei often states… Fast-forward that to 2026 our G.M. and close friend Mike took a hiatus to Australia, not resting on her laurels, Kaylei decided it was the right time to show us what she’s made of and what a great decision that was…she has definitely got all the makings of a good strong leader which will only enhance as the years go by. “Knowing I had some big shoes to fill, I put my heart and soul into the Waterside”…a statement that we all agree with time and time again! x

Gary’s journey in hospitality began at just 16 years old, balancing full-time work, college and evening shifts at a second job in an Italian restaurant. From the very beginning, his passion, commitment and work ethic set him apart.

At the age of just 22, Gary became one of the youngest Head Chefs in Cheshire, leading the kitchen of a prestigious hotel that held 3 AA Rosettes. The operation included a 40-bedroom hotel, a 200-seat ballroom and two restaurants, providing invaluable experience at a high level within the industry.

His dedication continued to shine throughout his career. In his first year with a previous company, Gary was awarded Employee of the Year, standing out amongst more than a thousand members of staff.

Fast forward to 2011 and thankfully we secured our best ever Head Chef here at The Waterside — a fact borne out by his length of service with us. Gary has played a pivotal role in building the strong, talented kitchen team that exists today. One of his greatest achievements has been developing young chefs, many of whom joined straight from college and have remained with the team for years, progressing under his guidance and mentorship.

Gary often reflects on how the industry has changed over the years. “While cheffing has always been demanding, managing allergens has become increasingly complex. Years ago, it was mainly nut allergies we had to consider, but today it’s many other things we have to take great care about, making the overall responsibility and knowledge required far greater.”

Away from the kitchen, Gary enjoys spending time with his family, eating out, watching his beloved Manchester United, taking holidays (lots of them!!!), walking his dogs, and unwinding with a good film or TV series.

Looking back, Gary is immensely proud of helping to build The Waterside into what it is today, alongside the many fantastic team members, both past and present, who have contributed to its success. “The Waterside is a great building, but it’s the people who’ve worked here over the years that have made it what it is today.”

Andrew joined us at the tender age of just 18 back in November 2018; his journey is a great example of passion, dedication and a genuine love for cooking.

Starting as a Commis Chef, Andrew began his working career on the starter section, steadily developing his skills and knowledge before progressing through the ranks to become a superb Sous Chef. “Along the way, I have gained invaluable experience under the guidance of Gary, whilst also teaching myself through constant experimentation and creativity at home,” you will hear him say.

“My favourite cuisines to cook are Asian and Italian, both offering me lots of scope to create bold flavours and continual learning.”

Outside of work, Andy enjoys attending motor events and has a keen interest in cars. In fact, when he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll usually find him researching something new — whether that’s related to cooking or the automotive world; for him, learning never stops.

Andrew’s enthusiasm, drive and commitment to continuous improvement has made him an invaluable part of The Waterside team, and his journey thus far from Commis Chef to Sous Chef is one we are incredibly proud of.

From work experience to Sous Chef… “Joining The Waterside in May 2017 at just 17 years old, what began as a work experience placement quickly grew into my career and passion,” he often says.

Starting out preparing salads and carrying out basic kitchen prep duties, he very quickly demonstrated a strong work ethic, willingness to learn and a genuine enthusiasm for the hospitality industry. Through dedication, commitment and years of hands-on experience, Jordan has steadily progressed through the kitchen ranks, developing both his culinary skills and leadership abilities.

Today, Jordan proudly holds the position of Sous Chef alongside Andrew, playing a key role in the day-to-day running of the kitchen and contributing to the development and design of new menus. His creativity, knowledge and experience continue to help shape the dishes that our guests enjoy.

Outside of work, he has a keen passion for Thai boxing and regularly spends time in the gym — in fact, even after a mammoth hard slog in our very busy kitchen, you’ll often see him emerge ready to go and do his workout, both of which reflect the same discipline, determination and focus that he brings to the kitchen every day.

Jordan’s journey is a wonderful example of how hard work, commitment and opportunity can come together, growing from a young work experience student into an integral member of The Waterside team.