Profiles
Michael Paley
As executive chef of Proof on Main at the 21c Museum Hotel, Michael Paley has played
a significant role in the resurgence of historical downtown Louisville, Kentucky.
Under Paley's leadership, Proof on Main showcases the bounty of the Ohio River Valley
and his culinary pedigree, which he developed working with Daniel Boulud and Drew
Nieporent. Diners flock to Proof for Paley's flavor-focused cooking that is inspired
by the culinary traditions of Italy and the American South. His exciting, accessible
menu pays homage to organic gardening, local farmers, artisanal producers, and sustainable
agriculture.
Not only has Paley helped to establish Proof on Main as a local landmark, but he
has secured himself and the restaurant a spot on the national stage. In 2009, Condé
Nast Traveler awarded Proof a top Dining category score in the magazine's
highly coveted Reader's Choice Awards. Paley was also named "Rising Star 2007"
by Restaurant Hospitality as well as "Derby Power Player" by
Louisville newspaper, Velocity. Proof was recognized in 2006 by Esquire
magazine as one of the "Best New Restaurants of 2006."
This rising star's professional cooking odyssey began in the front-of-house, as
a busboy, in his hometown of Washington, New Jersey. However, it was the excitement
of what was going on behind the scenes that quickly drew him to the kitchen. He
enjoyed the camaraderie among all levels of the kitchen staff, and realized that
no restaurant operates successfully without passion and teamwork.
While majoring in film at Florida State University, Paley landed a job with Club
Corporation of America, learning invaluable on-the-job experience with large-scale
restaurant, banquet and catering operations. After graduating, Paley's decision
to pursue a career in the kitchen led him to enroll in Florida Culinary Institute
(FCI) and subsequently work with some of the nation's top restaurateurs. While attending
FCI, Paley worked under Chef John Belleme at Zemi, a Boca Raton hot spot.
Paley also worked behind the stoves for famed Chef Daniel Boulud, opening Cafe Boulud
Palm Beach. Upon learning that Drew Nieporent's Myriad Group was operating Lucca
at the Boca Resort, he jumped at the opportunity to take part. Under executive chef
Carey Savona, Paley embraced an Italian approach to cooking, utilizing the freshest
seasonal ingredients to create simple, elegant dishes. Paley spent the following
years as sous chef, setting the benchmark for dining in South Florida with Lucca's
stunning food, informed service and award-winning wine list.
In 2005, Paley was appointed to head chef of Proof on Main at the 21c Museum Hotel
in Louisville. Owned by Steve Wilson and Laura Lee Brown, 21c houses an acclaimed
art museum that spans more than 9,000 square feet, as well as restaurant and event
facilities. Paley is honored to be part of Louisville's skilled restaurant community,
who are constantly working together to strengthen the city's prominence on the national
culinary stage.