by AnnGardner Eubank
For over 85 years, Kilmarnock residents and folks from all over have come to know and love the timeless recipes and the staff that feel like family at Lee’s Restaurant on Main Street, Kilmarnock.
According to third-generation owner and operator Bill Lee, the secret to keeping the business alive and successful is consistency paired with dedicated family. 2025 marks 51 years Lee has worked at the restaurant.
“It’s all I’ve ever known,” he said.
Lee can recall being as young as 10 and coming in to help his dad with all kinds of tasks. From bussing and serving, to washing dishes and cooking, Lee has done it all.
“I was 13 when I really started working here regularly. I was riding my bike here in town and my dad hollered out the window, ‘C’mon, it’s time to get to work’,” he said.
Bill worked for and beside his father, also a Bill, for many years.
His grandparents, Frances and Harry Lee, first purchased the restaurant in 1939. In 1948, after serving in World War II, Bill Sr. purchased the business from his parents.
Bill said some Tuesdays, that were known as “Kilmarnock Days” years ago would be so busy that he would stay back from school to help….
