42
years in business and Michael’s Restaurant in Rocky River is
shutting down. And, the news of the closure is bringing in residents
who want to experience the owner’s fine hospitality and good food.
Owner Michael Petrakis said the decision to close was hard, but he wants to retire and start his next life chapter. He said he wants to spend more time with his family – kids and grandkids.
Petrakis,
68, said he came to the U.S. from Greece during the 1970s with
practically nothing. Close to 50 years later, he began a successful
business, met and married his wife and had four children.
Maria
Petrakis, a Washington D.C. attorney and daughter of Michael, said
the restaurant was her second home. She said she was a waitress at
one time – terrible at it, but every Thanksgiving dinner was at the
restaurant.
Michael is well-known for one particular holiday tradition – providing tens of thousands of free meals.
Customers
coming to say good-bye to the restaurant and family said Michael’s
giving nature is certainly going to be missed.
Matthew
Dagiasis said Michael made sure the people who had no money or job
got a good meal.
Michael,
to thank all his loyal customers and supporters, is providing
breakfast at 1977 prices. He said it’s one more way to thank them
for attaining the American dream. He said those years had many good
memories in them.
He is also helping his 20 staff members to find other jobs in local restaurants. The restaurant’s last day is June 2 and will close at 9 p.m.
