By Kevin Greer
Lakeside Communications Manager
Sloopy’s has a new name, but when it comes to the owner, the line from the classic rock hit “Won’t Get Fooled Again” by The Who comes to mind: “Meet the new boss. Same as the old boss.”
Mike Speck, owner of Sloopy’s from 1994-2010 and creator of the award-winning Perfetto sauce, put the chef’s apron back on and joined business partner Tim Walsh to open Lakeside Pizzeria, featuring Sloopy’s Pizza.
When the previous owner decided to close a couple weeks before the start of the Chautauqua season, Speck, a long time Lakesider, stepped in and gave an offer.
“It wasn’t something I was thinking about getting back into, but I don’t want Lakeside to be without an eatery. This is Lakeside’s 150th Anniversary, which is extremely important time for the community,” Speck said. “We’ve been a staple here.”
With the exception of new paintings on the windows, the restaurant looks the same on the outside. However, customers will notice a change immediately after walking inside. New drywall was put up and most of the interior is painted white with touches of red and green, giving the dining room a brighter color. The counter was lowered, carpet was installed, fan blades were switched out and tables are being added in the back room through the arch. Speck also brought back some of the décor when he was the owner and took out all the televisions.
“I took all the TVs out of here because people are here to enjoy themselves,” Speck said. “I want people to sit down and talk. Cellphones are big enough distraction. You see four people sitting in a booth and they’re all looking at their phone and not interacting. We have to get back to where people actually talk to one another again.”
Customers can order carry-out at the counter, or grab a seat in the dining room for table service.
The menu consists of mostly pizza and sandwiches. Speck will likely have to wait until next year to get new deep fryers. He also plans to bring in new ovens next season. “I’m going to add to the menu as we go,” Speck said. Speck is still training and adding to his staff.
Lakeside is a special place to him and he wants to do the best he can for the community.
“I just want people to be patient with me,” Speck said. “I’m going to do whatever I need to be a good asset for Lakeside.”
