Michael Symon Joins Last Push to Save the West Side Market

Cleveland’s own Michael Symon is championing the West Side Market’s $70M revamp. Here’s what’s changing and why it matters right now.

You know Cleveland’s food scene has real roots when a hometown legend like Michael Symon will do almost anything to keep the flame lit. The latest? He’s leading a $9 million fundraising sprint to finish the epic transformation of the West Side Market—the city’s most beloved food institution.

Why Michael Symon Is All-In

Symon’s commitment is more than local pride. He grew up wandering the market’s bustling aisles, learning from the city’s old-school butchers and bakers, and building the food DNA that would make him a culinary icon. This isn’t just any fundraiser—it’s personal: Symon wants Cleveland’s next wave of kids to create memories in the same stalls where his own were shaped.

The Vision: $70 Million for Cleveland’s Culinary Heart

The West Side Market is getting a glow-up worthy of its status:

Upgraded Infrastructure: New electrical, modern coolers, and state-of-the-art backup generators.
Teaching Kitchen: Hands-on cooking classes and demos in the works.
New Gathering Spaces: The North Arcade will feature local chefs and prepared food stands—plus fresh new spots to actually sit and eat.
Accessibility: First-floor restrooms and improved entryways.
Recharged Courtyard: More room for relaxing, people-watching, and those impromptu food photoshoots.

How Much Has Been Raised—and What’s Left?

So far, more than $60 million is already secured—props to the Cleveland Public Market Corporation for the marathon fundraising effort. Now, Symon and retired Sherwin-Williams CEO Chris Connor are co-chairing a powerhouse committee to secure the last $9 million. The goal: wrap up fundraising in just a few months and keep renovations on schedule.

What’s Already Different at the Market?

The KeyBank Produce Arcade rolled out first, with a fresher, brighter look for fruit and veggie lovers.
Workers are currently deep in the basement, modernizing old-school systems Clevelanders never see (but definitely benefit from).
A mix of historic preservation and needed upgrades is already making the market easier—and way more fun—to visit.

What Will Change for Market Regulars?

Get ready for:

Food vendors with more space and flexibility.
Bigger crowds (yeah, Instagrammers—we see you).
Events and chef-led classes that bring the market’s energy to a whole new level.
More modern amenities with that same classic Cleveland grit.

How to Support the West Side Market Revival

There’s still a gap to fill. Local food lovers can:

Donate directly to the West Side Market’s nonprofit.
Spread the word about the fundraising effort.
Shop at market stalls—supporting your neighborhood butcher, baker, or pickle purveyor helps keep the place vital.

The next chapter for Cleveland’s West Side Market is closer than ever, and with Michael Symon leading the charge, you can bet we won’t let this local landmark fade. Let’s make sure another century of Cleveland food stories starts right here.