​Savory Art

An authentic. proud son of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, Ron Bernard Johnson’s humble beginnings is one of determination, diligence and inspiration. He spent his formative years at St. Augustine’s College, stumbling into a Home Economics class, starting inthe ninth (9th) grade. Although he thoroughly enjoyed the culinary art and science, upon graduation in 1998, he was clueless as to which direction to step forth professionally. However, his mother would have the foresight to enroll him at the Bahamas Hotel Training College. Though reluctant of the prospect and feeling like an underachiever, his affinity and penchant for the profession as well as strong mentorship helped guide him towards professional and academic excellence, earning him the highest GPA within his class.

After completing the Culinary Skills program, he earned the chance to become a Chef Apprentice, choosing Atlantis Resort & Casino, astutely and feverishly studying his profession for 3 years (beginning in 1999) in various kitchens; he viewed the restaurants and production kitchens as a classroom, avoiding complacency in the process. It was during those decisive years, he would be exposed to haute cuisine, various types of international flare and styles of food service but more importantly, it began his organizational refinement. In 2002, he saw that he needed to further his education and attended Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. Despite many financial and personal setbacks resulting in delaying school thrice during his academic tenure, he acquired his Culinary Arts Bachelor’s degree in 2006.

Eager to showcase his abilities in a non-conventional manner, he opted to forgo the hotel route which many college educated chefs seemed to delve into. Instead, he had a teaching stint and freelanced as a private chef, meeting many influential, affluent people (both in public and private sectors), cooked at various dinner parties and even worked on a remote island and aboard a couple yachts. Additionally, he would also assist friends at their places of employment ranging from the U.S. Ambassador’s residence to private homes. The experience would be invaluable due to the networking abilities and references gained.