Michael Abbate - '75

District 21 alumnus Michael Abbate has built a successful career in the restaurant industry, but what truly defines him is a simple philosophy: be happy with your life and your work. Known for his warm leadership style and passion for creating memorable dining experiences, Abbate has turned that belief into a guiding principle, both in the kitchen and beyond. From early beginnings at a Dunkin’ Donuts to becoming a respected leader in the restaurant industry, Abbate’s journey reflects not only hard work and creativity but also the joy of finding fulfillment in doing what you love.

As a third grader at Whitman Elementary School, Abbate’s teacher, Mrs. Weinhagen made learning fun. She provided props and employed hands-on learning which became meaningful, memorable and practical experiences that not only built confidence and problem-solving but also created lasting skills for Abbate.

Abbate, who matriculated to Holmes Middle School (‘74) and later Wheeling High School (‘79), started his first job at Dunkin’ Donuts mopping floors and cleaning bathrooms. From there, he worked at The Gazebo Ice Cream Parlor in Wheeling, scooping ice cream, until his quick ascension to manager at the tender age of 18. A few years into that job, Abbate and his parents were offered an opportunity to lease the restaurant and run it as their own. Incorporating a fryer and grill, they turned a small, general ice cream parlor into one of the “go-to” eating establishments in the area. The restaurant thrived under the Abbate leadership, but when the lease came up for renewal, the owner chose not to extend it. Confident in the momentum the business had gained, Abbate and his older brother, Jay, decided to take full ownership and run the restaurant themselves.

So Abbate moved on to work at other local establishments, including The Snuggery, a popular nightclub in the northwest suburbs. While there, he was promoted from line cook to sous chef to chef to general manager to managing multi-unit locations – in a matter of three years! It was also the place he met his wife, Kathy, who he has been married to for over 38 years. “This career can be hard on relationships,” states Abbate. The greatest reward is often the meaningful relationships that make the journey meaningful.

Over time, The Snuggery ebbed and flowed with the changing culture, opening new concepts from lively country-and-western themes (Cadillac Ranch), to Chicago’s largest nightclub (Excalibur) to refined steakhouses (Magnum’s Prime Steakhouse) to bustling pizza places (Moretti’s). Each transformation reflected both the evolving tastes of the community and leadership’s ability to adapt, keeping the dining experience fresh and relevant.

Abbate now works as the Vice President of Operations for Ala Carte Entertainment, that owns and operates 20 restaurants which includes 13 Moretti’s Ristorante & Pizzeria locations. Abbate is involved in every aspect of the operation, from construction of new facilities to menu selection to personally interviewing every manager, as he wants to make sure they are passionate about the work and they are the right fit for the job. “I think every student should work in a restaurant as it’s a fun job that strengthens relationship building,” he states.

Outside of work, Abbate loves to cook for his Italian family. “I grew up cooking with my grandparents and making pasta and meatballs from scratch,” he says. He often dines out at a variety of restaurants, eager to experience new flavors and styles of cooking that inspire his own approach to food and hospitality. Additionally, in true Italian form, he lovingly tends to a beautiful garden, finding joy and peace in nurturing it season after season.

From humble beginnings to serving as vice president of a thriving restaurant group, Abbate’s journey is a testament to the power of joy and passion. Rather than chasing titles or accolades, he built his career on a genuine love for food, people, and the experiences that bring them together. His story reminds us that success is not only measured in business growth, but also in the happiness found along the way.