The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize David Perry in our Community Proud series, sponsored by Charter Oak Credit Union. David is the Assistant General Manager of MJ23 Sports Bar and has worked with MJ23 and Michael Jordan’s Steak House for 25 years. During that time, he has become a guest and staff favorite known for his dedication and welcoming personality and is widely respected for the genuine relationships he forms with guests and co-workers.

David spent his early years in Jacksonville, Florida. He moved to Connecticut in 1999 and began working at Charlie’s inside the Crystal Mall. That first restaurant job introduced him to the hospitality industry. He quickly discovered how much he enjoyed the energy of a restaurant and the opportunity to meet new people.

In 2001, David joined the team at MJ23. He also found a professional home with Cornerstone Restaurant Group. He connected with the company and the surrounding community almost immediately. 25 years later, he remains just as passionate about the work.

David’s career is a powerful example of professional growth. He began as a dishwasher and maintenance worker. He later became a busser before moving into a serving position. Through consistent effort, he continued developing his skills and taking on greater responsibilities. He eventually worked his way up to his current role as Assistant General Manager of MJ23 Sports Bar.

Each position gave David a better understanding of how a restaurant operates. His experience also taught him the value of every person on the team. He knows that successful hospitality depends on people who are willing to support one another.

David wants to be known for treating everyone with the utmost respect. He brings his full effort to work each day and encourages others to reach their potential. Mentorship has become one of the most meaningful parts of David’s career. He takes pride in helping co-workers develop professionally. Their success matters to him because the relationships extend beyond job titles.

David has formed many friendships during his years in the restaurant industry. Some began with co-workers while others started with guests. These connections are among his proudest accomplishments.

He builds trust by being himself and listening before responding. David enjoys learning about people and finding ways to make them smile. His sense of humor helps guests feel comfortable. His willingness to listen lets them know they are valued. That personal approach has made David a favorite among guests. Many regulars have become close friends over the years. 

Recognition through the Community Proud series holds both personal and professional meaning for David. His work has never been limited to restaurant operations. It is also about contributing to a community he deeply values.

David appreciates the people he has met and the relationships he has built. He is thankful for every opportunity to make a difference. Having that commitment recognized is a true honor for him.

Southeastern Connecticut has been David’s home for more than 30 years. His family lives nearby and his work has connected him to countless people throughout the area. Even a simple trip to the grocery store often leads to a conversation with someone he knows.

That sense of familiarity is part of what makes the region feel like home. David is surrounded by people who have watched his career develop. Many have supported him throughout different stages of his life.

Family remains David’s greatest source of inspiration. His wife Chelsy and their children Lucia and Hudson are at the center of everything he does. They motivate him to keep improving and to give his best each day.

The hospitality industry often requires long days and demanding hours. David is grateful that his family understands the commitment involved. He wants them to know that his hard work has always been for them.

When David has time away from work, he wants to spend it with his family. He enjoys cooking dinner at home and attending local fairs. The activity matters less than the opportunity to be together.

David also has a favorite movie that may surprise some people. He estimates that he has watched Hot Tub Time Machine about 5,000 times. It is a fun detail about someone who values laughter in both his personal life and his work.

David credits Cornerstone Restaurant Group with supporting him inside and outside the workplace. He is thankful for the company’s confidence in him throughout his career. He also appreciates the coworkers who have encouraged him during the past 25 years.

From his first role as a dishwasher and maintenance worker to becoming Assistant General Manager, David has built his career through effort and respect. He has never forgotten the lessons learned in each position. Those experiences continue to shape the leader he is today.

The Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize David Perry. We thank him for his commitment to hospitality and the people around him.