Die Hard Browns Fan: Chef Symon

Are you ready for this week's special celebrity installment of Interview with a Die Hard Browns Fan feature?

This week, I talked to none other than Cleveland's own Iron Chef, Michael Symon.

Symon grew up here, and has stayed here in Cleveland, despite the temptation to take his talents to bigger markets. He is the chef/owner of Lola, Lolita and B-Spot here in Cleveland and is regularly featured on the Food Network and makes countless other appearances. Chef Symon is a true ambassador of Cleveland.

So, without further ado, I give you the Blawg Pound Interview with a Die Hard Browns Fans — Celebrity Edition.


How long have you been a Browns fans?

Since birth, 42 years.

Who is your all-time favorite Browns player?

Earnest Byner or Clay Matthews — they exemplified the city, never quit, worked their asses off and were humble.

Did you ever get to see them play in person?

Got to go to a lot of games as a kid ... consider myself very lucky in that regard.

What is your favorite Browns memory?

Anytime we beat Pittsburgh!!

Do you support Mike Holmgren and the direction in which he is taking this team?

Big fan of Holmgren. I think he is leading the team in the right direction.

I will admit, though, I also feel if we stuck with Butch Davis we would have been in a really good spot by now, IMHO.

Are you satisfied with the hiring of Pat Shurmur as the head coach?

We will see. I do like that everyone is now on the same page. Regardless of what business you are in, I think this makes all the difference in the world.

What off season move has you excited for next season?

There haven't been any yet. Hopefully they draft Patrick Peterson and pick up a veteran wide receiver.

What offseason move has you worried about next season?

As a huge football fan, in general I am worried about the lockout.

What areas do you think are of the biggest concern to the Browns for next season?

Defensive line & some explosive linebackers.

Who would you like to see the Browns take with the No. 6 pick in the NFL Draft?

I think the draft is so deep in defensive linemen, if Peterson is there I hope we take him. He is the closest thing to a guarantee in this draft.

Who is your favorite current Browns player?

Hillis. My favorite player in NFL history is Earl Campbelll and Hillis definitely has that same fearless style. Plus, he is humble and gritty, just like Cleveland.

What makes you a die-hard Browns fan?

I am not fair weather fan. I love 'em no matter what and always realize whether I disagree or not that the coaches, GMs, etc. have forgotten more about football that I will ever know.

I can't stand Monday morning QBs ... makes me crazy ... you are either a fan or your are not. If some people were half as smart as they thought they were, they would be coaching not watching!!!

Bonus Chef Symon Question: What is your favorite tailgate food?

Grilled brats with Stadium Mustard!!!

There you have it. Real answers from a real Browns fans. Thanks sharing your thoughts, Chef Symon, and thanks for being a Browns fan.

Are you a die-hard Browns fan? If you're reading this and your name isn't RJ, then I'm guessing you are. Visit our Facebook page or send us an e-mail and let us know if you'd like to be considered for a future Interview with a Die Hard Browns Fan.

Go Browns!