The Empty Station: Westbrook Mourns Chef Mike Sullivan 

The familiar comfort of The Deck in Westbrook, CT, is shrouded in sorrow today as the restaurant family and the entire community mourn an impossible loss. For over a decade, one man defined the warmth and flavor of the establishment: Chef Mike Sullivan. Mike worked with us at The Deck in Westbrook, CT for more than ten years, and in that time he became part of our family. The suddenness of his passing leaves his colleagues and the patrons who loved him grasping for answers, struggling to imagine the kitchen without his presence, his counsel, and his unmatched skill.

A Decade of Dedication: The Chef Who Shaped the Kitchen

Mike Sullivan was far more than a long-serving employee; he was the foundational soul of the establishment’s cuisine. He was an exceptional chef whose talent shaped our kitchen, transforming simple ingredients into memorable dining experiences that kept people coming back year after year. Every dish that left the pass bore the mark of his dedication, his creative flair, and his commitment to quality. His tenure of over ten years speaks volumes to his constancy and his commitment to his craft. His expertise wasn’t just technical; it was deeply personal, woven into the very fabric of the restaurant’s identity. His absence leaves a profound challenge for the team, but his culinary legacy—the recipes and the high standards he instilled—will forever remain in the heart of The Deck.

More Than a Chef: The Kind Spirit We Lost

While his talent in the kitchen was undeniable, the true measure of the man lay in his character: but even more than that, he was a kind and patient individual whose warm spirit was a comfort to everyone around him. He was the anchor in the rush, the steady hand, and the generous spirit who always offered support, mentorship, and a laugh. He was family. The community has not just lost a great chef; it has lost a dear friend, a family member, and a pillar of the Westbrook service industry. We send our deepest sympathies to Mike’s family and his extended family at The Deck, vowing to keep his generous memory alive by sharing the same kindness he showed us all.