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Celebrity Chef Michael Symon Looks To Travel For His New Collection With Frontgate

Celebrity Chef Michael Symon Looks To Travel For His New Collection With Frontgate

In the ever-evolving world of home decor and culinary lifestyle brands, celebrity chef Michael Symon is making waves with his latest venture—a collaboration with luxury home furnishings retailer Frontgate. Announced this week, the Michael Symon Collection draws deep inspiration from Symon's extensive travels, blending his passion for global cuisines with elegant, functional designs aimed at elevating everyday home entertaining. As a James Beard Award-winning chef, restaurateur, and television personality, Symon has long been a fixture in American food culture, and this new line represents a natural extension of his expertise into the realm of home goods.

Symon, best known for his appearances on shows like "Iron Chef America" and "The Chew," as well as his ownership of acclaimed restaurants such as Lola and Mabel's BBQ, has always emphasized the communal aspects of food. "Food is about bringing people together," Symon shared in an exclusive interview. "And what better way to do that than in a space that feels inspired by the world's flavors?" This philosophy underpins the collection, which features a range of outdoor and indoor entertaining essentials, from serveware and barware to textiles and decorative accents. Each piece is designed to evoke the vibrancy of destinations that have shaped Symon's culinary journey, including the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean, the bustling markets of Asia, and the rustic charm of American heartlands.

The collection's genesis stems from Symon's post-pandemic reflections on travel. After years of being grounded due to global restrictions, Symon found himself yearning for the sensory experiences of exploring new places. "Travel has always fueled my creativity in the kitchen," he explained. "Whether it's the spices of Morocco or the fresh herbs from Italy, those elements translate into how I cook and now, how I design." Partnering with Frontgate, a brand renowned for its high-end, durable home products, allowed Symon to channel these inspirations into tangible items. The result is a line that not only looks beautiful but is built for real-life use—think dishwasher-safe platters that can handle a backyard barbecue or elegant glassware sturdy enough for daily toasts.

Diving deeper into the products, the collection boasts several standout pieces. The Mediterranean-Inspired Serving Set, for instance, includes oversized platters adorned with subtle olive branch motifs, reminiscent of Symon's trips to Greece and Spain. These are crafted from high-quality melamine, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings without sacrificing style. Symon highlighted how these pieces encourage al fresco dining, a nod to European cafe culture. "I wanted something that feels like you're dining on a terrace in Santorini," he said, "but practical for an American patio."

Another highlight is the Asian Fusion Bar Cart, a sleek, wheeled cart with bamboo accents and integrated storage for bottles and tools. Drawing from Symon's experiences in Tokyo and Bangkok, it incorporates elements like matte black finishes and minimalist lines, perfect for mixing cocktails infused with exotic ingredients. Symon, an avid mixologist in his own right, designed it to facilitate effortless entertaining. "In Asia, hospitality is an art form," he noted. "This cart brings that efficiency and elegance home."

For those drawn to American roots, the Rustic BBQ Essentials line pays homage to Symon's Cleveland upbringing and his love for Midwestern grilling. Items like forged iron grill tools and wooden cutting boards etched with subtle map-like designs evoke road trips across the U.S. "Barbecue is my soul food," Symon admitted. "These tools are meant to last, just like the memories from family cookouts." The collection also includes textiles such as linen table runners and napkins in earthy tones, inspired by the landscapes of national parks he's visited.

What sets this collaboration apart is its focus on sustainability and quality. Frontgate, under its parent company Qurate Retail Group, has committed to using eco-friendly materials where possible, such as recycled glass in the barware and responsibly sourced woods. Symon, a vocal advocate for farm-to-table practices, ensured that the line aligns with his values. "We're not just creating pretty things; we're making pieces that respect the planet," he emphasized. This ethos resonates in an era where consumers are increasingly mindful of their purchases, blending luxury with responsibility.

The timing of the launch couldn't be better. With summer in full swing and a resurgence in home entertaining post-COVID, there's a growing demand for products that make hosting feel special yet approachable. Industry experts predict that celebrity-driven home collections like this could see significant growth, building on the success of lines from figures like Joanna Gaines or Chrissy Teigen. Symon's entry into this space positions him as more than a chef—he's a lifestyle curator. "I've spent my career in kitchens, but home is where the heart of cooking lies," he reflected.

Beyond the products, the collection includes digital content to inspire users. Frontgate's website will feature recipes from Symon, tailored to the items, such as a grilled vegetable platter using the Mediterranean serveware or a smoked brisket tutorial with the BBQ tools. This multimedia approach aims to engage fans, turning passive buyers into active participants in Symon's world. "It's about the full experience," Symon said. "Buy the platter, then make my tzatziki recipe on it."

Pricing for the collection is positioned in the premium segment, with items starting at around $50 for smaller accessories and going up to $300 for larger pieces like the bar cart. Available exclusively through Frontgate's online store and select catalogs, it's expected to roll out in phases, with the initial drop focusing on outdoor entertaining just in time for late summer soirees.

Symon's foray into product design isn't entirely new; he's previously launched cookbooks, spice blends, and even a line of knives. However, this partnership with Frontgate marks his most comprehensive home collection yet, signaling a shift toward broader lifestyle branding. "Travel broadens your palate and your perspective," Symon mused. "I hope this collection does the same for people's homes."

As we look ahead, this collaboration could pave the way for more chef-driven home lines, where culinary expertise meets interior design. For Symon, it's a dream realized: merging his love for food, travel, and community into objects that enhance daily life. Whether you're a seasoned host or a novice entertainer, the Michael Symon Collection invites you to infuse your space with global flair, one inspired piece at a time.

Expanding on the inspirational travel aspects, Symon's journeys have been pivotal. Recall his early trips to Italy, where he honed his pasta-making skills in Bologna, influencing the collection's emphasis on communal dining ware. Or his adventures in Southeast Asia, where street food vendors taught him the art of quick, flavorful preparations—reflected in the portable, versatile nature of many items. Even domestic travels, like cross-country drives to source ingredients for his restaurants, inspired the rugged durability of the BBQ line.

Critics and fans alike are buzzing. Food bloggers have praised the aesthetic, noting how the pieces bridge modern minimalism with timeless appeal. One reviewer called it "the perfect fusion of form and function for the travel-obsessed foodie." Symon himself plans to showcase the collection at upcoming events, including pop-up dinners where guests can experience the products in action.

In essence, this isn't just a product line; it's a narrative of exploration and hospitality. By looking to travel, Michael Symon has crafted a collection that transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories, all from the comfort of home. As the world reopens, it's a timely reminder that inspiration is everywhere—if you're willing to seek it out.

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Read the Full Forbes Article at:
[ https://www.forbes.com/sites/shivanivora/2025/07/24/celebrity-chef-michael-symon-looks-to-travel-for-his-new-collection-with-frontgate/ ]