Photo: Instagram/officialmrtendernism
Walter Johnson Sr. — the viral pitmaster better known online as “Mr. Tendernism” — says he’s officially moved on from Destination Smokehouse.
In a video shared to his Instagram, Johnson confirmed what many supporters had been speculating for weeks.
“No, I’m not at Destination Smokehouse. I’m with Tenderism. So now you know. I had to go on my own,” he said in the clip, adding in his signature upbeat tone, “You don’t get mad — you just take another step, get glad, and praise the Lord.”
Johnson became a viral fixture on social media for his animated delivery, catchphrases, and slow-motion videos showing ribs and oxtails sliding clean off the bone. The Murrieta, California restaurant — which originally operated as a coffee shop before pivoting to barbecue — saw a major surge in attention as clips of Johnson racked up millions of views across TikTok and Instagram.
The spotlight intensified when food critic Keith Lee visited Destination Smokehouse earlier this year. Lee later shared that he had hoped to personally meet Johnson and gift him money after reviewing the food, but was told Johnson was unavailable due to filming. Lee said there were “no hard feelings,” but the moment sparked online debate about Johnson’s role and visibility within the business.
Shortly after, a GoFundMe organized by Johnson’s manager, Joseph White, began circulating online. The fundraiser describes Johnson as “a beloved figure in the California food scene” and says he was ultimately “fired” from the restaurant he helped popularize. The page outlines plans for Johnson to launch a food truck and build his own platform centered around barbecue and soul food.
As of this week, the campaign has raised more than $43,000 toward its stated $50,000 goal.
Adding another layer to the situation are trademark filings connected to the phrase “Tendernism.” According to Black Enterprise, multiple trademark applications were filed in late 2025, including filings by a North Carolina attorney and use-based filings from Diamond Smokehouse Enterprises Inc., claiming earlier commercial use. The filings have fueled speculation online about ownership of the viral catchphrase, though neither side has publicly linked the trademark issue to Johnson’s departure.
Destination Smokehouse owner Nick Yepremian previously addressed questions about Johnson’s role in interviews, stating that Johnson was “a part of the business” but declining to discuss ownership details.
For now, Johnson is focused on what’s next.
“Y’all keep supporting me. I guarantee you I ain’t going to do you wrong,” he told followers.
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