Anchored in Community: Jeanette Kelly’s Culinary Voyage Through Downtown Kenosha

There are few people who embody the spirit of Kenosha’s hospitality scene quite like Jeanette Kelly. A Carthage College graduate and former 4th grade teacher, Jeanette’s journey into food and hospitality wasn’t exactly traditional, but it was destined. Her time working in restaurants during college turned into a lifelong love affair with the industry, sparking a passion for creating memorable experiences and bringing people together around good food and great vibes.

Jeanette launched Portside Catering in 2021 as a natural extension of her passion for service and culinary creativity. What started with The Galley food truck serving up a “Captain’s Menu” has now evolved into a full-service catering company with its own hybrid kitchen and event space. Whether it’s a backyard wedding or a corporate launch party, Portside delivers restaurant-quality food, hospitality, and a touch of flair to every event.

From custom grazing tables to locally sourced, seasonal menus, Jeanette and her team craft food-forward, stress-free experiences that reflect their clients’ unique tastes and styles. Portside even offers intimate chef’s table dinners for up to 16 people and plans to launch hands-on cooking classes — think local sushi and pasta-making lessons that bring the community together in a whole new way.

As co-owner of Captain Mike’s Beer & Burger Bar, Jeanette keeps the heartbeat of Downtown Kenosha alive with one of the most recognizable and beloved spots in the city. Captain Mike’s is a quirky, welcoming, and delightfully unpretentious place with a legendary menu (try the Mac and Cheese Stuffed Burger “The Shopping Cart” if you haven’t already).

It’s more than just the food — it’s the people. Jeanette credits the bar’s longtime staff for their hard work and dedication. The Ice Bar block parties in the dead of winter? That’s all part of the Mike’s magic — turning cold weather into community celebration.

When the world turned upside down in 2020, Jeanette and her team turned to the road — launching The Galley Food Truck, which became a crowd favorite. It now complements both Captain Mike’s and Portside by delivering fan-favorite dishes to private parties and select public events.

And then there’s Galleygiving — a heartwarming tradition where The Galley serves up hot meals during the holidays, no questions asked. It’s a beautiful example of Jeanette’s community-first mindset in action.

In true Jeanette fashion, her ventures don’t stop at food. She expanded her love of hosting into the Captain’s Quarters, a sailing-themed Airbnb located near the harbor. The space offers guests a truly local and charming Kenosha experience—many of whom end up visiting Mike’s or hiring Portside during their stay. It’s a cross-promotional dream that ties all of her brands together beautifully.

Jeanette doesn’t just own businesses downtown — she’s helping shape its future. As President of the Lakeshore Business Improvement District (BID), she’s a fierce advocate for small businesses and collaborative projects that elevate the district. From façade improvements to inclusive events and thoughtful wayfinding signage, Jeanette is all about progress with purpose.

When asked how others can get involved, her answer is simple: show up, speak up, and pitch in. The more voices at the table, the stronger downtown becomes.

From student to teacher, bartender to business owner, and now a new mom — Jeanette’s  journey is grounded in one powerful belief: you can’t do it all alone. Her success is a reflection of her team, her community, and her commitment to making people feel seen and valued. She defines success not just in revenue or recognition, but in balance, impact, and meaningful connections.

As someone who has the pleasure of knowing Jeanette for many years and working closely with here on many projects, I can tell you firsthand—Jeanette Kelly is the real deal! Her heart for Kenosha, her passion for quality, and her tireless dedication to our community is nothing short of inspiring. Whether she’s behind a catering table, slinging burgers at Captain Mike’s, or speaking up at a BID meeting, she brings energy, warmth, and purpose to everything she does.

Jeanette is more than just a successful entrepreneur, she’s a community builder, a creative force, and a true Kenoshan through and through, and we’re all lucky to have her right here in our wonderful downtown.

📍 Captain Mike’s: 5118 6th Ave, Kenosha, WI, 53140 •  captainmikespub.com • Facebook • Instagram • TikTok 
📍 Portside Catering: portsidecateringwi.com • Facebook •  Instagram •
📍Captain’s Quarters: CLICK HERE
📍The GalleyFood Truck: Facebook • Instagram •
Lakeshore Business Improvement District (BID)

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