Michael Smith

Chef Michael Smith developed a passion for cooking at an early age, and honed his skills in Nice, France, and Chicago’s acclaimed Charlie Trotter’s, among other high-profile cities and restaurants. In 1994, Chef Michael assumed the helm of Kansas City’s revered The American Restaurant as Executive Chef and Corporate Chef.

Chef Michael is not only one of Kansas City’s first James Beard Award-winning chefs, he is also highly regarded for his innovation, use of artisanal products, attention to detail and inspiration gained from world travel. In partnership with his wife Nancy Smith, he is proprietor of the popular Kansas City Crossroads Arts District restaurants Michael Smith Restaurant, Extra Virgin and most recently, Farina, which opened in February 2019. Chef Michael received a Menu Masters Chef Innovator of the Year Award and represents Kansas City and the Kansas City Chiefs for the Taste of the NFL. A culinary philanthropist, he generously gives back to the city that enthusiastically supports locally owned restaurants. Chef Michael and Nancy continually work to elevate experiential dining in Kansas City’s hottest food destinations.

When Chef Michael isn’t in the kitchen, he likes to paint on large canvases in a local artist studio and enjoys woodworking. He built a beautiful wood gueridon (food service cart) for Farina and several custom furniture pieces for his home.