Growing up in a Mediterranean & Eastern European family, Cleveland native Michael Symon creates boldly flavored, deeply satisfying dishes that not only reflect his heritage but the city he was raised in. Lola, Mabel’s BBQ, Roast, Bar Symon, Angeline, and B Spot Burgers are all wonderful examples of not only how Symon was raised but how food shaped him. Since being named a Best New Chef by Food & Wine magazine in 1998, Symon and his restaurants have been awarded numerous honors. Symon has won The James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef.

Symon also shares his exuberant, approachable cooking style and infectious laugh with viewers as an Iron Chef on the Food Network, Burgers, Brew, & ‘Que, and as ABC’s Resident Chef. Symon was the first chef ever to host the annual Farm Aid benefit concert. He is also a former co-host of the Emmy-winning TV show, The Chew. Symon is the author of six award winning cookbooks, four of which have landed on The New York Times bestseller list. Symon’s live conversations are infused with humor, inspiration, and practical insights which make him an ideal choice for events focused on leadership, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.