Michael Symon is an American chef, restaurateur, television personality, and author. Born on September 19, 1969, in Cleveland, Ohio, he is best known for his appearances on Food Network shows such as "Iron Chef America" where he frequently competes as an Iron Chef, and "The Chew", a daytime talk show that covers food and lifestyle topics. Symon's culinary style is predominantly rooted in his Greek and Sicilian heritage, with a focus on Midwestern cuisine influenced by the local ingredients and traditions of his home region of Cleveland. He has received considerable acclaim for his cooking, including awards from prestigious institutions like the James Beard Foundation. In addition to his TV appearances, Symon has authored several cookbooks that reflect his culinary ethos, with a particular focus on meat-centric and barbecue recipes, as well as comfort food. His books often aim to make cooking approachable and enjoyable for home chefs. Beyond television and writing, Symon is also an entrepreneur, having opened a number of restaurants in the Midwest, mainly in the Cleveland area, which showcase his signature cooking style and commitment to local, sustainable food sources.