Through Well, Abdur-Rahman
March 2, 2026
Walter Johnson, seen as the king of ‘tendernism’, has plans to create a global empire of fine dining.
Mr. ‘Tendrnism’ starts his own barbecue joint after his old employer in Southern California let him go.
Walter Johnson went viral for his fall-off-the-bone beef, which he claims to have described as “tendernism.” Now he wants to keep the smoke going after Destination Smokehouse fired the legendary chef.
Mr Tendernism confirmed on Instagram his departure from the restaurant he made a world name for. The Shade Room has reposted the images of what Johnson has on his chef’s hat.
“I’m not at Destination Smokehouse right now, just tenderism,” Johnson revealed. “I had to go alone so I could do what I had to do. It is what it is. When something happens, you don’t get angry. You just take another step, get happy and praise the Lord that you’re alive.”
Fans were initially shocked to learn that Johnson had no stake in the Murrieta, California, eatery, which is actually white-owned. However, his love for his job and good barbecue captivated social media, with Johnson continually going viral for his reaction to seeing his ribs slide off the bones with ease.
Although travelers from far and wide flocked to the restaurant to try Mr. Johnson’s world-famous ribs, the restaurant seemingly let him go despite the fame. However, he plans to turn defeat into victory. He shared his plans to expand his tender meat empire.
He added, “I am [going to] make the world softer now. They should never have done that. Family out there, you continue to support me. I guarantee I will never hurt you.”
Mr. Tendernism has already created boards for A-list clients. Johnson recently performed his famous rib ritual at a private dinner for the Isley Brothers. Its success proved to Black Hollywood that his smoking process is real.
Johnson, affectionately known as an “Unc” on the internet, also plans to keep up with the times via his new Twitch account. Now streamers can watch Mr. Tendernism works its magic as the celebrity chef takes on new ventures.
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