MICHAEL ZISLIS

Founder

Michael Zislis is an entrepreneurial maverick, restaurateur, hotelier, brewer, and philanthropist whose hospitality portfolio has shaped the South Bay and beyond.

His career began at 13 brewing beer, eventually leading him to open Manhattan Beach Brewing Company, one of California’s first craft breweries, and later assisted in launching more than 140 breweries worldwide.

In 2000, Michael debuted Rock'N Fish, a beloved seafood and steakhouse, later expanding to Rock'N Fish - L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles. He went on to open The Strand House in 2011, a chef-driven oceanfront destination known for its coastal and farm-fresh cuisine. 

Michael entered the luxury boutique hotel space in 2004 with Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach, the area’s first boutique hotel, recognized on Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List and named one of the trendiest hotels in the U.S. He expanded the brand in 2016 with Shade Hotel Redondo Beach, a cornerstone of the King Harbor waterfront revitalization.

In 2012, combining his passions for food, craft beer, and rock & roll, Michael co-founded Rock & Brews, now a nationally recognized, multi-location restaurant and entertainment brand spanning freestanding, airports, arenas, stadiums, and multiple casino venues.

Beyond business, Michael is deeply committed to philanthropy, serving on the foundation board of Torrance Memorial Medical Center and supporting numerous health, education, and environmental initiatives. 

“Success means nothing if it is not shared with others who are less fortunate,” says Michael. “I am grateful that my successes have afforded me the opportunity to do so.”