Since 2007, Michael’s flagship restaurant has defined Genuine Hospitality—
Locals and visitors alike embrace and crave this unique approach to dining out — some may consider Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink a second home, a place where
they’re comfortable, that they want to share with friends.
Always Genuine…
The Genuine Hospitality Group is James Beard Award Winning Chef, and cookbook author, Michael Schwartz’s collection of award winning restaurants. Since his flagship, Michael’s Genuine® Food & Drink, first opened in Miami’s Design District in 2007, Schwartz and his team have added both fine dining and casual restaurants and currently own and operate four restaurants. Schwartz is the face of the South Florida restaurant industry and a nationally recognized celebrity chef.
Our Team
Randy Zuniga
Executive Chef, Michael’s Genuine
Born and raised in Miami, Executive Chef Randy Zuniga brings over a decade of dedication and culinary experience to Michael’s Genuine. A longtime member of the Genuine Hospitality Group, Randy has held vital roles during his tenure, including Chef de Cuisine and Special Ops Chef, consistently demonstrating his leadership and creative vision.
Randy’s journey into the kitchen began with a friendly dare among friends to see who could endure the challenges of the culinary world the longest—a spark that quickly ignited a lasting passion. Over the years, he has honed his craft under the guidance of celebrated chefs including Michael Schwartz, Michael Beltran, and Niven Patel.
Known for his commitment to balance, flavor, and growth, Randy continues to evolve as a chef, driven by a desire to craft thoughtful, harmonious dishes and become the best version of himself—both in and out of the kitchen.
Renata Ferraro
Executive Sous Chef, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
With more than 25 years of diverse culinary experience, Executive Sous Chef Renata Ferraro brings passion, precision, and diversity to the kitchen at Michael’s Genuine. Her expertise spans Japanese and Italian cuisines, steakhouses, pizza, bakeries, and patisserie—reflecting a career shaped by curiosity and creativity.
A true culinary entrepreneur, Renata founded and operated the acclaimed bakery in Key Biscayne, Flour and Weirdoughs, earning recognition from the Food Network for her exceptional talent as both a chef and baker. She has opened restaurants across the U.S. and abroad, contributing to push the boundaries of flavor and creativity, driven by the joy of bringing people together through food.
For Renata, cooking is more than a profession—it’s a way to connect cultures and create memorable experiences. “What drives me as a chef is the opportunity to craft amazing moments for our guests while understanding the diverse cuisines and cultures this world has to offer.”
Marlena Bella
Pastry Chef, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
Pastry Chef Marlena Bella brings heart, family, and global inspiration to the dessert and pastry program at Michael’s Genuine. Marlena fell in love with baking as early as her childhood, where she was inspired by her mother and grandmother’s recipes and loved bringing people together through food.
A graduate of Johnson & Wales University with a degree in Baking & Pastry and Food Service Management, Marlena has worked in the food industry since high school. Her experience spans from restaurants, corporate kitchens, and artisan bakeries, where she has mastered everything from artisan breads to plant-based and gluten-free pastries.
Inspired by her travels and a deep love and dedication for the craft, Marlena’s approach is thoughtful, inventive, and rooted in flavor. “Joining the team at Michael’s Genuine has truly reignited my love for baking,” she says. “It feels like coming home.”
