Michael Symon Is Everyone's Favorite Carnivore
The always-smiling Clevelander hosts a steak and whiskey party at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival
Michael Symon is a carnivore with a smile.
As the chef and owner of nearly two dozen restaurants and the author of five cookbooks, the Cleveland native has earned his reputation of being a master of meat.
Symon’s eateries, Lola — which debuted in 1997 and closed during the pandemic — and Mabel’s BBQ, have been Cleveland staples, but the chef has become a household name from his show, “Burgers, Brew & ‘Que” on Food Network and as co-host on ABC’s “The Chew.”
The chef is traveling to Miami Beach to host two events at the 2022 South Beach Wine & Food Festival. Tonight, February 24, he will take over Miami’s Design District for his Steak and Whiskey party that celebrates two all-American favorites. On Friday, February 25, Symon will co-host a dinner to commemorate the 15th anniversary of Miami restaurant, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink (which has a location in Cleveland), along with Michael Schwartz and Dillion Wolff.
Broken Palate caught up with Symon to ask him a few rapid-fire questions in a round of what we call “Breaking Eggs.” Read on for more.
BP: What is the last restaurant you went to? How was it?
MS: Michaels Genuine (Cleveland) was unreal, as always.
BP: What's a recent standout moment in your work life?
MS: Cooking with my granddaughter Emmy.
BP: What's your go-to way to chill out?
MS: Gardening.
BP: Three things we'll always find in your refrigerator?
MS: Mustard, mustard, and more mustard.
BP: What was the last thing you cooked?
MS: Braised lamb shanks with orzo.
BP: What is your favorite city for food and why?
MS: New York City. Just the depth and variety of food there is insane. Every ethnicity is represented.
BP: What's your "forever" brand?
MS: Vans .. always Vans.
BP: Martini: gin or vodka?
MS: Whiskey.
BP: Still or sparkling?
MS: Still.
BP: Sit at the bar or a table?
MS: The bar.
BP: Favorite app?
MS: Waze.
BP: What's the last thing you ate?
MS: Egg and cheese sandwich on a roll.
