Michael Symon Biography

Michael Symon is an award-winning chef and owner of Lola and Lolita restaurant in Cleveland. Its history began in 1990, after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Simon frequently appears on Food Network shows such as Iron Chef America, Burgers, Brew and ‘Que, Food Feuds and The Best I Ever Ate. He also appeared on Cooking Channel’s “Cook Like an Iron Chef” and ABC’s “The Chew.”

Symon began to develop his Cleveland palate while practicing at some Cleveland restaurants such as Player’s, Piccolo Mondo, Giovanni’s and Caxton Cafe. Michael found success, confidence and fans working in restaurants.

Michael Symon Restaurant

In February 1997, Symon partnered with Liz to open his own restaurant, Lola. Located in the historic Tremont district west of downtown Cleveland, this hotel has received great reviews. To complement Symon’s menu, Liz brings global flair to the restaurant’s design and offers unique wines from rare vineyards that make Lola Cleveland a year-round destination.

In 2005, Michael, Liz and Doug Petkovic created Lolita, a new concept for Lola. In 2006, they brought life to a new part of Cleveland by reopening Lola’s on East Fourth Street in downtown Cleveland.

On April 15, 2006, Michael opened his third restaurant, Parea City, in New York. Located on East 20th Street near Park Avenue, the restaurant offers great Greek food.

Michael Simon’s TV Show

Michael has been highly praised for his passion for cooking and attention to detail. His accomplishments have led to him being named a National Rising Star by Restaurant & Hotel magazine (May 1997 issue), one of the Eleven Best Chefs by Food & Wine magazine (July 1998 issue), and the best restaurant in America by Gourmet Magazine. (October 2000 issue).

Michael was featured in Michael Ruhlman’s book The Soul of a Chef (2000) and was named a Distinguished Chef in the Great Lakes Region by the James Beard Foundation (2006). Simmons also appeared with Michael and NBC’s iVillage Live on WKYC-TV (Cleveland) on Monday.

Michael hosted over 100 episodes of The Melting Pot on Food Network. He also starred alongside Sara Moulton in the TV series Sara’s Secrets, Ready, Set, Cook and Food Nation, alongside Bobby Flay.

In 2007, Simmons competed on the reality show “The Next Iron Chef” and won, thus cementing his place as the iron chef on the Food Network’s hit series “Iron Chef America.” The food site announced that Simon will host the network’s third hit show, Dinner Impossible. He hosted the show for 10 episodes until host Robert Owen returned as host.

Michael began appearing on Dear Food Network: Thanksgiving Disasters with other Food Network stars beginning November 11, 2008. Shortly after, he appeared in the first episode of the channel’s program Best I Ever Ate, which also featured his restaurant Lolita. He has been the host of the TV series Burgers, Brew and ‘Que since 2015.

Michael Simon Age

How old is Michael Simon? Simon is 54 years old as of 2023. He was born on September 19, 1969 in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. She also celebrates her birthday on September 19 every year and her zodiac sign is Virgo.

Michael Simon Wife

Simon is married to Liz Shanahan, who is also his restaurant partner. He is a vegetarian. It is not yet clear whether the couple has children. However, Simon has an older son, Kyle Shanahan, who was two years old when he married Liz.

Simon has a son named Kyle Shanahan, who was born on February 12, 1987. Now grown and living in New York, Kyle owns Grindstone Coffee and Donuts.

Michael Simon Family

The Simons are Dennis Simon and Angel Simon. He has a brother named Nicky Simon.

Michael Simon’s Net Worth

Simon’s net worth is approximately $6 million. Most of his income comes from his work as a chef, chef, television personality, and author.