Michael Psilakis facts for kids
| Born | New York City, New York, U.S. |
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Current restaurant(s)
MP Taverna, Irvington NY
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Previous restaurant(s)
* Ecco, Long Island (2001–2004),
* Onera, New York City (2004–2007), * Anthos, New York (2007–2010), * Mia Donna, New York City (2008–2009), * Kefi, New York City (2008–2020), * Gus & Gabriel Gastropub, New York City (2009–2010), * Fishtag, New York City (2011–2018), * MP Taverna, New York City (2013–2019) |
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Television show(s)
* Iron Chef America (2006, 2010, 2011),
* Ultimate Recipe Showdown (2009–2010), * Beat Bobby Flay (2014–2016, 2019), * Chopped (2015, 2017), * Tournament of Champions (2022) |
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Michael Psilakis is a famous American chef, author, and restaurant owner. He is well-known for his amazing Greek food. You might have seen him on TV shows like Ultimate Recipe Showdown and Iron Chef America. He has owned many popular restaurants in New York City. He even had the chance to cook for President Barack Obama at the White House!
Contents
Early Life and Background
Michael Psilakis was born in New York City. His family comes from Greece, which is why he loves to cook Greek food.
His Restaurant Journey
Michael Psilakis has opened and managed many restaurants throughout his career.
First Restaurants
From 2001 to 2004, he managed a restaurant called Ecco on Long Island. Later, he opened Onera in New York City in 2004.
Famous Locations
One building in the Upper West Side, Manhattan, at 222 West 79th Street, has been home to several of Psilakis's restaurants. These include Onera, Kefi, Gus & Gabriel Gastropub, and Fishtag. Kefi even returned to this spot after being in a different location for a while.
Working with Donatella Arpaia
Michael Psilakis also worked with Donatella Arpaia. They co-owned restaurants like Kefi, Anthos, and Mia Donna.
Awards and Recognition
Psilakis has won some big awards for his cooking.
- In 2006, Esquire magazine named him their Chef of the Year for his work at Anthos.
- In 2008, Anthos received a Michelin Star. This is a very special award for excellent restaurants.
- Also in 2008, Bon Appétit magazine named him their Chef of the Year.
MP Taverna
From 2013 to 2019, Psilakis owned and ran a restaurant called MP Taverna in Astoria, Queens.
TV Show Appearances
Michael Psilakis is a familiar face on cooking shows.
- He was a judge on Ultimate Recipe Showdown.
- He competed twice on Iron Chef America in 2006 and 2010.
- He hosted The Best Thing I Ever Ate.
- In 2012, he was a participant and co-producer for the show No Kitchen Required on BBC America.
- He has also appeared on Good Morning America and competed on Cutthroat Kitchen.
Books He Has Written
Michael Psilakis wrote a book in 2017 called Live to Eat: Cooking the Mediterranean Way. In this book, he shares easy ways to eat healthier without losing any of the delicious flavors. He wanted to show people how to enjoy food while staying healthy.
