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Meet Tanner Johnson of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanner Johnson

Hi Tanner, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am Tanner Johnson, a 30 year-old Chef living in Los Angeles. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest in a secluded town, food was a big part of my life. I spent a lot of time outdoors grilling, gardening, experiencing with recipes during rainy days and cooked for everyone around me. Where I grew up it is all about family and food was always related in that aspect. We honestly did not have the broadest pallet. Which is why I always have been obsessed with anything other than a chicken finger (I love a good corner store chicken finger). I looked forward to home cooked meals at my grandmas house but.. I enjoyed helping her prep the kitchen even more.

Although I have been cooking since I was 5, never did I considered making a career out of it until moving to LA from New Orleans. Before the big move I always worked in Sales/Marketing while running my Non-Profit 360 NOLA in New Orleans.

People whom I’ve cooked for in the past always said I should become a chef.. it wasn’t until I volunteered for Hurricane Katrina relief work rebuilding homes in New Orleans that I discovered my true passion for food. I was inspired by the generosity of people, culture and most of all history down south. It’s always a warm feeling upon arrival in New Orleans and the cuisine is a huge part of the warmth. The communities lost everything and food is what brought many of them back together after Hurricane Katrina.

I try and lead a healthy lifestyle, both emotionally and physically. When I create food not only do I use the best ingredients I establish a utopia around the dish and generate a story. Most likely I am trying to tell you about an experience of mine from the past, present and even future. Art is my way of communicating, I re-create my mistakes and let my imperfections shine from there. I have developed a reputation as a versatile home chef with a diverse group of who’s who clients from all over that seek me for customized gourmet meal prep, traveling personal and private chef services, pre-packaged juices and small dinner parties. My longest and happiest relationship has been with food and music. I am also preparing to release my first dance Single in October, 2024! Music has always inspired me throughout the years as well as dancing. I’m always playing music in the kitchen, while working out or anywhere I can.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has been quite windy, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I’ve made mistakes, and judgment calls in business and life that have all led me to where I am now which I would never take back. Some of the obstacles I had to overcome was the battle with my anxiety and mental health overall. I realized that I was my biggest barrier. Once I overcame my fears the path was clear (my mind) and I have never been more excited for the future. It’s never to late to start something new and chase your dreams.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
What sets me apart from others? The answer is they are not me and that is my gift. I have corky way of doing things which makes me stand out. I’m not afraid to cross lines, make mistakes or call the kettle black, I which most times I am calling my self out/. How can I be better? What can I do? I am known for being a Chef catered towards a celebrity client as well as a boisterous personality in the kitchen and outside of the kitchen. I am most proud of my volunteer work in New Orleans dating back to 2009. I’ve raised several thousands of dollars for the New Orleans community and most importantly dedicated thousands of hours rebuilding the community and homes for people in need.

I am Tanner Johnson, a 30 year-old Chef living in Los Angeles. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest in a secluded town, food was a big part of my life. I spent a lot of time outdoors grilling, gardening, experiencing with recipes during rainy days and cooked for everyone around me. Where I grew up it is all about family and food was always related in that aspect. We honestly did not have the broadest pallet. Which is why I always have been obsessed with anything other than a chicken finger (I love a good corner store chicken finger). I looked forward to home cooked meals at my grandmas house but.. I enjoyed helping her prep the kitchen even more.

Although I have been cooking since I was 5, never did I considered making a career out of it until moving to LA from New Orleans. Before the big move I always worked in Sales/Marketing while running my Non-Profit 360 NOLA in New Orleans.

People whom I’ve cooked for in the past always said I should become a chef.. it wasn’t until I volunteered for Hurricane Katrina relief work rebuilding homes in New Orleans that I discovered my true passion for food. I was inspired by the generosity of people, culture and most of all history down south. It’s always a warm feeling upon arrival in New Orleans and the cuisine is a huge part of the warmth. The communities lost everything and food is what brought many of them back together after Hurricane Katrina.

I try and lead a healthy lifestyle, both emotionally and physically. When I create food not only do I use the best ingredients I establish a utopia around the dish and generate a story. Most likely I am trying to tell you about an experience of mine from the past, present and even future. Art is my way of communicating, I re-create my mistakes and let my imperfections shine from there. I have developed a reputation as a versatile home chef with a diverse group of who’s who clients from all over that seek me for customized gourmet meal prep, traveling personal and private chef services, pre-packaged juices and small dinner parties. My longest and happiest relationship has been with food and music. I am also preparing to release my first dance Single in October, 2024! Music has always inspired me throughout the years as well as dancing. I’m always playing music in the kitchen, while working out or anywhere I can.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I have learned is to always trust yourself and follow your heart, even if its hard.

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