Michael Symon Prepares for Culinary Throwdowns in All-New Kitchen Matchups

Throwdown with Michael Symon will premiere on Tuesday, Dec. 14 at 9:30|8:30c with special back-to-back episodes.

October 21, 2021
Chef Michael Symon with chef Katie Pickens and competitors Eli Sussman and Max Sussman race to finish their chicken shawarma dish, as seen on Throwdown with Michael Symon, Season 1.

Chef Michael Symon with chef Katie Pickens and competitors Eli Sussman and Max Sussman race to finish their chicken shawarma dish, as seen on Throwdown with Michael Symon, Season 1.

Photo by: Scott Gries

Scott Gries

As an Iron Chef, a restaurateur and our favorite person to cook at home with during last year’s lockdown, Michael Symon has never shied away from a challenge. He’s got decades of experience in the culinary industry and the sharpest chops in the game, all of which he’ll need as he kicks off an all-new competition, Throwdown with Michael Symon, premiering Tuesday, Dec. 14 at 9:30|8:30c with special back-to-back episodes.

With the help of his longtime culinary director, Katie Pickens, Michael will battle the country’s most-esteemed chefs… on their own turf…. at their own game! That’s right: Michael and Katie will be challenged to cook up their opponent's signature dish. They won’t know who they’re competing against until they arrive on the scene, and the local chef too will have no clue Michael is coming for a face-off! With a crowd of spectators watching from the sidelines, Michael and his rival will bring their competitive spirits and very best flavors to the competition before a blind-judging process ultimately reveals the winner.

On the menu this season? Barbecue Burgers like you’ve never seen them before, as well as fried chicken, Khachapuri and more. Mark your calendars for the premiere of Throwdown with Michael Symon on Tuesday, Dec. 7 at 9:30|8:30c.

Next Up

All About Michael Symon

Get to know the Cleveland-born Food Network chef, restaurateur and author. Discover how he began his career at 13 years old and how he honors his Greek Sicilian roots in his culinary work.

All About Michael Voltaggio

Get to know the Maryland-born, Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur — discover how his past as a picky eater led to his wildly successful culinary career, read about his journey to opening three flourishing restaurants with his brother and his role on your favorite Food Network shows.

Star Kitchen: Michael Scelfo

Chef Michael Scelfo shows Food Network Magazine his hardworking home kitchen.

Here Are All of Michael Symon's Daily Dinners on Food Network Kitchen's Facebook

Have you tuned in for #SymonDinners? Catch up on what you missed or re-make any of his clever, adaptable recipes.

Michael Symon’s Restaurant Recommendations

The host of Throwdown with Michael Symon shares his go-to spots for barbecue, Italian, Israeli and more.

Only the Most-Elite Chefs Will Enter Bobby Flay’s Secret Kitchen for a Triple Threat Throwdown Against Culinary Titans

Premiering Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 9|8c, Bobby’s Triple Threat features fearless competitors facing off against acclaimed chef-titans Brooke Williamson, Michael Voltaggio and Tiffany Derry.

Michael Symon Explores BBQ USA in a Smokin’ New Series

Mark your calendars for the premiere on Monday, July 11 at 9|8c.

All the Ingredient Substitutions You Need to Make Michael Symon's Daily Dinners

Cook along with him on the Food Network Kitchen Facebook page! His flexible recipes mean you probably already have all the ingredients you need.