Michael Sokolowski, co-owner of Cleveland’s Sokolowski’s University Inn, dies at 65 after illness

A longtime figure tied to one of Cleveland’s best-known neighborhood restaurants

Michael Paul Sokolowski, a third-generation co-owner of Sokolowski’s University Inn, died Feb. 24, 2026, at age 65. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026, at St. John Cantius Catholic Church in Cleveland, followed by interment at Holy Cross Cemetery.

Sokolowski’s University Inn operated for nearly a century in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood, becoming widely identified with cafeteria-style service and a menu rooted in Polish and Eastern European comfort food. The restaurant, founded in 1923, was long recognized as a civic landmark and a frequent stop for visitors seeking a traditional, family-run establishment.

From a family business to national recognition

Sokolowski’s moved through multiple generations of family management and, in its later decades, became known for dishes such as pierogi, stuffed cabbage, and chicken paprikash, along with a dining room filled with photographs and memorabilia reflecting decades of customers and guests. In 2014, the restaurant received a James Beard Foundation “America’s Classics” award, a designation given to longstanding regional institutions.

The restaurant closed permanently in 2020 after pandemic-era disruptions. At the time, the family cited the combined strain of COVID-19-related operating constraints and ongoing health challenges within the ownership group. The closure ended what had been described as Cleveland’s oldest family-owned and -operated restaurant.

Community roles beyond the restaurant

In addition to his role at Sokolowski’s, Sokolowski’s obituary describes a life that blended food, sports, music, and civic involvement. He attended Cleveland Central Catholic High School and graduated from Otterbein University. He also served as an official within the Greater Cleveland Umpire Association and participated in baseball-related events connected to the Cleveland Indians Fantasy Camps.

His work in food extended into teaching. He was involved with the Polaris Career Center’s community culinary arts program, sharing cooking skills in a classroom setting after years in a professional kitchen and dining operation.

Sokolowski was also active in community and faith organizations, including leadership roles within the Cleveland Society of Poles and membership in the Knights of Columbus Trinity Council. His obituary notes he played drums, performed with bands, and participated in music for parish church Masses.

Survivors and service information

• Survived by his wife, Patricia (McCue)

• Children: George McDougall (Erika) and Sara

• Grandchildren: Nicole and Emerson

• Siblings: Bernard Jr. (Mary) and Mary Lou Balbier (Ronald)

Visitation is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon March 7 at St. John Cantius Catholic Church, followed by a noon Mass of Christian burial.

The obituary states that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cleveland Central Catholic High School.