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We’re beginning to learn more about the Mr. Tendernism-Destination Smokehouse situation.
Last month, Walter Johnson, better known as Mr. Tendernism, started a GoFundMe, revealing that he was leaving the restaurant he helped make famous with his “Tendernism” catchphrase.
Destination Smokehouse owner Nick Yepremian admitted to attempting to trademark the “Tendernism” catchphrase, but denies firing Johnson.
“Walter was never asked to leave. The application to register the trademark for tendernism was not filed without his knowledge. Walter was an early source of inspiration for me, and I’ve always been grateful for that.”
In an interview with Enoy Your Leisure podcast, Johnson claims that Destination Smokehouse refused to have a conversation about giving him equity in the business after he helped them grow their brand.
“Evidently not worth having because we’re at a point to where we at right now. See, I ain’t wanting to bash folks because I don’t have time to do that. Life’s too short. So what you do, you learn from that little small mistake, and you just move forward.”
Johnson said that he may have ended up staying at Destination Smokehouse if they had given them equity in the business.
“It’s a possibility, but you know, hey, like I say, no backstepping now. I got to keep putting my shoes on one at a time.”
Recent videos show Destination Smokehouse struggling to attract visitors.
Man goes viral after pulling up to Destination Smokehouse to get some food. 👀🏠💨🥩 pic.twitter.com/qNdKwhulGO
— Rain The Plug (@Raintheplug1) March 8, 2026