Michael Slavin is the Vice President of Culinary & Menu innovation for Houlihan’s of Houlihan’s, Inc., leading culinary  innovation for the 85-location chain headquartered in Leawood, Kansas. In his role, Michael is responsible for leading  product innovation for the company’s six brands: Houlihan’s, J. Gilbert’s, Bristol Seafood, Devon Seafood + Steak, TBD Bar & Social and Make Room For Truman. Since joining Houlihan’s in March 2016, Michael developed an ambitious 100+ new menu items for Houlihan’s, 75+ for Specialty and in 2018 he developed and opened two new concepts (TBD  and MRFT). 

Chef Slavin brings over 30 years of culinary experience to his role, starting his professional career in the Hotel and  Casino’s segment followed by a six-year stint with Houston’s in the early 2000s. He has held senior chef positions at  Fiorella’s Jack Stack, The Royals’ Kauffman Stadium, BRGR Kitchen + Bar, and most recently, Applebee’s World  Headquarters. 

Michael is an industry go-to for product consulting, innovation feedback, conference and event participation and  food and trend insights. He has been quoted in numerous trade and consumer mediums– television, print and online —and recently developed consumer recipes for Bel Brands, Barilla and True Aussie Beef & Lamb to feature through  digital media and in their promotional efforts. Michael is a member of the Flavor & The Menu culinary advisory board.  His set experience includes “Chef on Set” designations for both video and still shoots, and he has participated in  several tapings for Jimmy Kimmel Live. 

Michael’s background includes extensive experience in kitchen design, process, operations, restaurant management  and menu development—working in both the front and heart of the house. 

Chef Michael completed Pro Chef Level II Culinary Program from the Culinary Institute of America in 2008 where he  earned his degree in 1990 with high honors; he is a member of the American Culinary Federation. 

Michael believes in supporting his local community, participating with several nonprofit organizations including the  Diamond of Dreams Royals charity, Harvesters Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Boy’s and Girl’s Club of Kansas City,  Susan G Komen, Team Smile and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri.  

Michael lives in Kansas City with his wife and three children.