About

Chef JJ Johnson is an award-winning culinary innovator best known for his barrier-breaking cuisine that connects the foodways of West Africa and Asia to the Americas. His signature cooking style blends culturally significant ingredients with classical techniques and a global perspective, deeply inspired by the Caribbean flavors of his childhood and his international travels — from cooking in Ghana and Israel to visiting a seven-generation rice farm in India.

Raised between New York City and the Poconos, JJ's passion for food began at the age of seven under the influence of his Afro Puerto-Rican grandmother. He later honed his craft at the Culinary Institute of America. JJ is the chef and founder of FIELDTRIP, a fast-casual rice bowl concept headquartered in Harlem, where the menu celebrates global rice traditions and sustainability. His culinary philosophy is rooted in the belief that rice is the backbone of many cultures — especially in a diverse country like America.

Beyond the kitchen, Chef JJ is a community advocate dedicated to food justice and equity, partnering with local farmers and producers to support sustainable practices. He's the founder of Ingrained Hospitality Concepts, LLC, a hospitality group that champions cultural storytelling through food. Chef JJ lives in New York City with his wife and twins.

Chef JJ Johnson is a cultural tastemaker and entrepreneur reshaping the American food landscape through the lens of the African diaspora. His brand is built on the idea that food is a powerful storytelling tool — one that connects continents, communities, and generations. At the heart of JJ's work is FIELDTRIP, his acclaimed rice bowl restaurant concept. With four locations across New York City and expansion on the horizon, FIELDTRIP offers a new vision of fast-casual dining that's deeply rooted in tradition, flavor, and equity. By working with local rice farmers and food producers, JJ is building a sustainable supply chain that honors the origins of each grain.

JJ's brand extends beyond restaurants. As a public figure, author, and television personality, he uses his platform to challenge the status quo and advocate for food justice. Whether through his TV show Just Eats, partnerships with culinary leaders, or forthcoming restaurant Bankside (opening May in collaboration with Mark Lore and Wonder), JJ is committed to creating spaces that celebrate culture, heritage, and innovation. His journey is more than a career — it's a movement. And rice is just the beginning.