Meet the team that makes Dawn Manor an unforgettable dining experience. Our team members work hard to ensure every detail, from the menu to the atmosphere, is top notch for our guests.
At Dawn Manor, you’ll create memorable guest experiences in a supportive work environment. Learn more to find out if a career at Dawn Manor is right for you.
Daily: 4:00pm – 9:00pm
(Opening for lunch starting Thursday, May 29)
Daily: 3:30pm – 10:00pm
Happy Hour
Sunday – Thursday: 3:30pm – 6:00pm
A passionate and prolific hospitality professional, Bill Wilson has helped open more than 90 restaurants in his 40-year career. A seasoned operations executive with a well-documented record of success, Bill has held leadership positions at Levy Restaurants, Chicago’s Michelin-starred Spiaggia, and international brand Nordstrom. His extensive background also includes working with Disney and Steven Spielberg’s themed restaurant ventures, where he played a key role in launching and operating unique dining experiences like the Fireworks Factory at Disney, as well as Dive!, a gourmet submarine-themed eatery backed by Spielberg.
Now, as the opening General Manager of Dawn Manor, Bill brings his wealth of experience to this exciting new concept in Wisconsin Dells. Focused on creating a chef-driven destination dining experience, he is committed to blending exceptional hospitality with operational excellence. A dynamic and capable leader, Bill empowers his teams through training, education, and collaboration, ensuring Dawn Manor is not just a restaurant, but a destination for friends, family, visitors, and locals.
Chef Jayson has grown an impressive culinary career from a love of great food, a deep connection to the Midwest, and a drive to create memorable dining experiences. Raised along the Mississippi River, he attended culinary school at Blackhawk College in Moline, Illinois, and began his culinary career in supper clubs, private country clubs, and the Iowa Machine Shed.
Over the years, Jayson’s culinary journey took him to fine dining riverfront establishments, including The Lighthouse and The Dock, before bringing him back to Wisconsin in 1999. He played a pivotal role in opening Damons Grill at Kalahari Resort, serving as Executive Chef and handling catering during the resort’s first four years. From there, he expanded his expertise into leadership, working as General Manager at Damons, then as Food & Beverage Director at Christmas Mountain, and later at Trappers Turn, Kalahari’s golf and banquet venue. In 2013 he realized a lifelong dream by opening his own restaurant, J’s Pub & Grill, which offers everything from casual fare to elevated steak and seafood dishes.
A dedicated community advocate, Jayson actively participates in local fundraisers, visits schools to inspire young chefs, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Reedsburg Area Medical Center Foundation. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him at the gym six days a week — keeping up with his two boys, two dogs, and three cats, and preparing for the possibility of grandkids someday.
Jayson is thrilled to be part of the opening team at Dawn Manor and to bring his experience and passion to this exciting new chapter in Wisconsin Dells dining.
For Justin Draper, cooking isn’t just a career—it’s in his DNA. As a third-generation chef, he grew up surrounded by the art of food, following in the footsteps of both his father and grandfather. After graduating from Wisconsin Dells High School, Justin set his sights on Minneapolis, where he honed his skills at Le Cordon Bleu.
With his culinary degree in hand, Justin embarked on a journey across the United States, gaining invaluable experience as a sous chef in kitchens from Key West to Vail to Portland. Each city enriched his expertise, shaping the chef he is today. Eventually, he returned home to Wisconsin Dells, where he co-founded High Rock Café, a beloved downtown staple, and spent 20 years crafting innovative dishes and fostering a vibrant culinary community.
Beyond the kitchen, Justin is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and traveling. In the summer, you’ll often find him unwinding on his pontoon boat or kayaking with his wife, daughter Reagan, and their two dogs. A dedicated advocate for local businesses, he also plays an active role in downtown Wisconsin Dells committees, helping to shape and support the community he loves.
What’s the best part of being an executive chef?
The instant gratification of watching customers fall in love with their meal, one plate at a time.
What do you look for when you go out to eat?
I love bold, interesting flavors and fusion cuisine. I love to see chefs bringing different cultures together on one plate.
If you could cook with anyone, who would it be and why?
Anthony Bourdain. His experiences, storytelling, and the soul he put into food were truly inspiring.
What’s your favorite thing about working in a kitchen?
The camaraderie. There’s nothing like the teamwork and energy of a great kitchen, especially after a busy shift when you know you’ve done something incredible together.
What was your least favorite food as a child? Do you still dislike it?
Braised red cabbage. As a kid, I couldn’t stand the smell—but now, I actually enjoy it!
How did you land in a culinary career?
It runs in the family—both my dad and grandfather were chefs, so it felt like a natural path for me.
Classically trained and passionate about scratch cooking, Jimmy Smith brings a broad and diverse culinary background to Dawn Manor’s kitchen. His career began in Charlotte, North Carolina, where his drive and talent quickly led to leadership roles in both fine dining and high-volume restaurants.
Jimmy has cooked in acclaimed kitchens across the country and spent several years with Norwegian Cruise Line, mastering global cuisine and large-scale operations aboard the Pride of America. In every role, he’s remained focused on consistency, creativity, and culinary excellence.
Now based in Wisconsin, Jimmy is excited to bring his thoughtful, seasonal approach to his role as Sous Chef at Dawn Manor. Drawing on his heritage, historical influences, and a deep respect for local ingredients, he is a vital part of a culinary team committed to delivering unforgettable dining experiences.
With more than 25 years of hospitality experience, Gretchen Backhaus brings deep operational knowledge and a guest-first philosophy to her role as Dawn Manor’s Restaurant Manager. A Wisconsin native, Gretchen has held leadership roles at local institutions including DelBar, High Rock Cafe, and Sunset Harbor Bar & Grill in a dynamic career that has spanned restaurants, resorts, and bar operations.
Known for her hands-on management style, creative promotions, and commitment to team development, Gretchen has a proven track record of driving efficiencies and enhancing guest experiences. From streamlining operations to curating craft cocktail menus and hosting community events, she brings strategy, empathy, and experience to Dawn Manor. Gretchen guides her team with warmth, adaptability, and passion, and works hard to make guests feel welcomed, cared for, and inspired to return.
