Henry Johnson

Chef Henry Johnson is the executive chef at Evelyn in Dallas and a prominent competitor representing Texas on Season 24 of Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen. Known for a leadership style that blends Southern hospitality with military discipline, his culinary journey is a testament to passion and a commitment to self-sufficiency in the kitchen.

Early Life and Culinary Roots
Originally from Tonganoxie, Kansas, Johnson developed a love for cooking at a young age, often helping his grandmother in the kitchen. This early exposure instilled a passion for Southern homestyle cooking and a desire to be self-sufficient.

Military Service and Education
Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, Johnson served in the U.S. Air Force for six years. His military service, including a year stationed at Osan Air Base in South Korea, broadened his culinary horizons, exposing him to a wide range of international cuisines. After his service, he used the G.I. Bill to attend the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio, from which he is an honors graduate.

Career in Dallas
Johnson's career in the Dallas restaurant scene has included several key roles:
Cafe Pacific: Lead Line Cook / Sous Chef (May 2017 - Aug 2017).
Cowboys Club at The Star: Sous Chef (Aug 2017 - Mar 2018).
North Italia: Sous Chef (Mar 2018 - Feb 2020).
Flower Child: Executive Sous Chef and later Executive Chef (Feb 2020 - Jun 2021).
Lombardi Family Concepts, Inc. (including Bistro 31): Executive Chef (Sep 2021 - Aug 2024).
Evelyn Steakhouse: Executive Chef (Sep 2024 - Present).

Hell's Kitchen Appearance
Johnson was discovered by a recruiter via social media and selected to represent Texas on Season 24 of Hell's Kitchen, subtitled "Battle of the States". He viewed the experience as an opportunity to learn from Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay and challenge his limits, all while building friendships with other talented chefs. His signature dish, ricotta gnocchi with vodka sauce, was well-received by Ramsay on the show's premiere and has since made an appearance on the menu at Evelyn.