Michael Robert Schwartz

Michael Robert Schwartz, 88, of New York City, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was a successful restaurateur and owned many restaurants, including Michael One, Michael Two, Michaels of John Street, Michaels of Madison, and Michaels of Broadway. He was known for his passion for food, his generosity, his fairness, and his kindness. Michael was born on August 10, 1935, in New York City, to Henry and Cecelia Schwartz. He graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology and started his career in the hospitality industry. He opened his first restaurant, Michael One, in 1969, and soon expanded his business to other locations. He was an innovator in the New York dining scene, offering upscale dining experiences in the financial district. He won numerous awards and accolades for his restaurants and was respected by his peers and guests alike. He enjoyed traveling and fine dining with Elizabeth, his wife of 22 years, his friends, and his family. Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who always put his family first.  In addition to his wife Elizabeth, Michael is survived by his children Stephanie Weber, Randi Schwartz (Rob Rubinson), Stephen Schwartz (Burt Baskett), Samantha Schwartz, and Stacey Anderson (Howie Anderson); his grandchildren Zachary Weber, Monica Weber, Stella Rubinson, Leo Rubinson, Anna Case (Colin Case), Emily Negron (Chris Negron), Katherine Taylor; his great grandchildren Amelia Negron and Christian Negron; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Cecelia Schwartz, and his sisters, Joan Pearlman, and Darcy Spinrad. A visitation will be held on January 15, 2024, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, at the Beney Funeral Home, 79 Berry Hill Road, Syosset, NY 11791. A graveside ceremony will follow at the Locust Valley Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.