Back in 1998, chef Michael Symon stepped into the spotlight on Food Network, and he's been a mainstay ever since. As a host on The Chew, he charmed audiences with his laid-back personality and deep love for his family. Michael has been happily married to Liz Symon since 1998, and he's also become a cherished stepdad to Liz's son, Kyle Shanahan. Kyle, from Liz's previous marriage, has found in Michael not just a stepfather but also a mentor and role model.
From Co-Workers to Soulmates
Before Michael stepped into his role as stepdad, his journey with Liz began in the bustling world of restaurants. The two first crossed paths in 1990 while working at Players, a restaurant that became the backdrop for their budding friendship. Their bond deepened when both were hired at Caxton Café. At that time, Kyle was just six years old, and he would soon find himself gaining a new father figure as his mom and Michael's relationship blossomed.
A Love Story in the Making
Michael recalled their early days together in a January 2018 interview with the New York Times. He shared how their love story unfolded amidst the lively atmosphere of the restaurant scene. "We’d finish work, the staff would go out together, we’d grab drinks, then we’d make out and think, 'That was a bad idea, we should just be friends,'" Michael said. "But a week would pass, we’d go out again, and the same thing would happen." It was a slow burn, but their connection was undeniable.
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A Life Together
After deciding to move in together, Michael popped the question, and the pair tied the knot in 1998. Together, they've built a life filled with culinary success, opening several restaurants that have become local gems. Their influence even rubbed off on Kyle, who found his own passion for the culinary arts. In 2016, Kyle opened Grindstone Coffee & Donuts, a shop inspired by his grandparents. "When I was little, my grandmother and I would hike through the river where the workers tossed the remnants of broken grindstones and carving stones," he shared in a March 2018 interview. "I would hunt for them as if they were ancient treasure. It’s one of my favorite memories."
Success in Every Bite
Kyle's brioche donuts have taken the Sag Harbor community by storm, with the shop selling thousands of donuts each day. This level of success was something Kyle never expected, but opening a donut shop was always a dream of his. "I grew up in the industry — I had no choice, really," he joked in an August 2016 interview with The Southampton Press. Kyle's entrepreneurial spirit and love for food have made him a local favorite, continuing the family tradition in his own unique way.
A Growing Family
Beyond his success as a business owner, Kyle is also a proud husband and father of two. He welcomed his first child, daughter Emmy, with his wife, Krista, in December 2018. His second child, son Butch, was born in October 2021. Michael, ever the doting grandfather, is thrilled to share his growing family with his social media followers, often posting adorable pictures of his grandchildren. It's clear that Michael's journey as a stepdad has been filled with love, laughter, and a shared passion for life.
