Great food creates community.

Johan, the visionary chef and owner of both Whitecrest Eatery and Back Door Kitchen & Pizzeria, hails from Northern Denmark and brings a world of flavor to every plate he creates. With roots grounded in his Danish heritage and shaped by a childhood spent traveling across Europe, Johan developed an early appreciation for diverse cuisines and culinary traditions. That global perspective now finds a home in his kitchens, where bold, unexpected flavor pairings and creative techniques set his dishes apart.

Before settling in coastal New England, Johan sharpened his culinary skills in kitchens across Copenhagen, New York City, Cape Cod, and New Haven—each stop adding a new layer to his craft. In Copenhagen, he was immersed in the clean, seasonal simplicity of Nordic cuisine. New York challenged him to innovate under pressure in fast-paced, cutting-edge kitchens. Cape Cod introduced him to the beauty of local seafood and coastal flavors, while New Haven deepened his passion for wood-fired cooking and community-driven dining. All of these experiences continue to influence his menus today.

At Whitecrest Eatery, Johan’s ever-evolving menu is a reflection of his philosophy: food should be fresh, fearless, and full of soul. He’s best known for his seasonal “Wanderlust” series—six weeks, six countries, six entirely different menus—taking diners on a culinary journey across the globe. From Moroccan spice blends to Thai street food flavors to rustic French countryside classics, Johan channels his travel experiences into each dish, making every week of the series a new adventure.

Whether he’s crafting globally inspired plates or perfecting wood-fired pizza at Back Door Kitchen & Pizzeria, Johan brings the same guiding principle to everything he cooks: food is love. That means cooking with intention, integrity, and care—from sourcing quality ingredients to creating dishes that nourish both body and soul.

Both kitchens are proudly seed oil–free, with a strong commitment to traditional fats and whole, clean ingredients. Johan believes you can taste the difference—and feel it too.

His homemade sourdough bread—crafted with care and aged starter—has earned a loyal following and become a signature at both restaurants. Don’t forget to grab a loaf on your way out (trust us, you’ll want to).

Whether he’s exploring new cultures through food, paying tribute to his roots, or simply feeding his community well, Johan’s approach to cooking is rooted in curiosity, craftsmanship, and love.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Gather55 for the opportunity to share my three-course menu with your team and patrons. It is an honor to contribute to such a meaningful and inspiring space.

Gather55 is more than just a restaurant—it is a place built on love, compassion, and a deep sense of community. It serves as a platform for dreamers and emerging entrepreneurs, offering not only the chance to grow and create but also providing a safe and welcoming environment where people from all walks of life can come together to enjoy a nourishing meal.

The belief that food is love has always guided my work, and I am deeply moved to see that same philosophy brought to life so beautifully here. Thank you for the warm welcome and for all that you do.”