© Shawn Dowd/Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Southern California’s Destination Smokehouse restaurant continues to face backlash amid a messy falling out with viral “Tendernism” unc Walter Johnson.
Last week, Johnson started a GoFundMe page claiming he was fired from the restaurant he helped go viral with his “Tendernism” catchphrase.
Via GoFundMe
Walter was ultimately fired from the restaurant he helped make famous.
But Walter’s story doesn’t end there. He’s launching his own food truck, where he’ll showcase his signature barbecue and soul food creations, giving fans the authentic flavors and larger-than-life energy they fell in love with. He’ll also travel city to city, reviewing small, locally owned BBQ and soul food restaurants — spotlighting hidden gems, driving foot traffic, and helping hardworking entrepreneurs grow their businesses. More than food, it’s about community, culture, and ownership.
Walter isn’t just tasting ribs — he’s building a platform that celebrates small businesses and turns viral moments into lasting impact. “That’s Tendernism” is back — and this time, it belongs to him.
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.
We’ve shared so many genuine moments together, talking about barbecue and bonding over the craft that we both love. These moments were filled with camaraderie and mutual respect.Today, I’m proud of Walter for having the courage to go after his own dreams. It takes heart. I respect anyone who chooses to build something of their own, and I wish him nothing but the best.
Popular comedian Godfrey posted a viral Tiktok video calling for people to supporting Destination Smokehouse.
This man Walter Johnson, aka Mr. Tendernism, said he’s no longer with Destination Smokehouse. I feel sorry for him man. You can hear the pain in his voice. He did so much for this owner. He sacrificed hisself and this dude played him! Anybody who looks like me we gotta stop supporting Destination Snokehouse. We’re gonna support Walter Johnson! There’s enough of us around the country to make it happen. We got your back!
@godfreyfunny This man Walter Johnson, aka Mr. Tendernism, said he’s no longer with Destination Smokehouse. I feel sorry for him man. You can hear the pain in his voice. He did so much for this owner. He sacrificed hisself and this dude played him! Anybody who looks like me we gotta stop supporting Destination Snokehouse. We’re gonna support Walter Johnson! There’s enough of us around the country to make it happen. We got your back! #DestinationSmokehouse #Barbeque #WalterJohnson Get your tickets to see me live! GODFREYLIVE.COM
Johnson’s GoFundMe has already raised over $70k in a few days and hosted a private dinner for Ronald Isley of the Isley Brothers.