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.