Rocky River - The man who for over four decades made Thanksgiving in Greater Cleveland synonymous with restaurant-quality free turkey dinners will close his iconic eatery in Rocky River this weekend.
Michael Petrakis will offer several breakfast, lunch and dinner specials at 1977 prices, along with the current menu this week at his long-time restaurant at 19797 Detroit Road in Rocky River. Michael says it’s his way of thanking loyal customers and the community one last time for helping him achieve the American Dream. Michael’s restaurant will close its doors for good on Sunday, June 2 at 9 p.m.
“I came to this country from Greece in the 1970s with very little. But in 42 years, I started a successful business, met my wife, raised four children who have grown into successful adults and have been blessed with a beautiful granddaughter.”
After working in the restaurant business for 50 years and having the honor to serve the Rocky River community for 42 years, Petrakis feels it’s time to begin retirement and the next chapter of his life.
Petrakis gained widespread recognition over the years through his unique Thanksgiving tradition: serving tens of thousands of free Thanksgiving meals to all who visited his restaurant on the holiday. He called the practice—which ran from the 1970s until recently—his way to thank and give back to the community and his loyal customers.
All this week Michael’s will feature Chef Dino’s dishes from the regular menu so that patrons can enjoy their favorite meals and have the opportunity to redeem their restaurant gift cards.
“I’m looking forward to seeing many old friends and customers who stop by to share their memories one last time with us this week.” Petrakis also wants to extend sincere gratitude to all his former and current employees who have supported him through the years.
Petrakis looks forward to spending quality time with his family, but adds, “I will miss serving the greater community, as it became an extension of our family over the past 42 years.”
Photo courtesy of Michael Petrakis
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