Nestled in Wesley Heights with a great view to Bank of America Stadium, is an eatery with a big mission — Community Matters Cafe — serving purpose and fresh start to many Charlotteans.
Chef Chayil Johnson has worked every position in the kitchen before becoming the head chef at the cafe, owned by the Charlotte Rescue Mission that helps people in sobriety integrate back into the workforce.
“We’re a six month program where we teach them life skills and they get to practice those skills in the cafe for those six months while we fully support them,” Johnson told CLTtoday.
Growing up in New Orleans, LA, Johnson started his culinary journey around 12 years old at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, where his passion for food really stated to sizzle.
“I just really fell in love with the art behind food, the competitive nature around food, the teamwork, and camaraderie around food” Johnson recalled. “I fell in love with the community aspect of it, how you can use it to uplift people, how you can reach different people.”
It’s the community that Johnson credits for the James Beard nomination.
“I’m really grateful for the work that I individually have put in, but more grateful for the work of my team all around me,” said Johnson. “I think this is a testament to how hard we work and what we do. I know it’s my name that’s on this award, but this truly is a team effort and a team accomplishment.”
Got a sec? Read our interviews with fellow nominees Mixologist Coleen Hughes and Chef Sam Diminich. The finalists will be named on April 2 + the winners will be unveiled June 16 in Chicago, IL. Keep an eye on our newsletter for the updates.
