Johnnie Mountain (44) – London

Having worked in the catering world for over twenty years, Johnnie Mountain finally found his true vocation in 1994 when he started working in restaurant kitchens and instantly knew that’s where he belonged. In 1995 Johnnie worked as Sous Chef at Café Dell Ugo before going on to work with Alastair Little, he then joined The Vine in Kentish Town, London

He opened his first restaurant in Wood Green, and has since gone on to open his latest venture, The English Pig, a restaurant in Westminster where he is now a permanent fixture.

Johnnie is originally from the North West, and is every inch the “straight-talking Northener.” He’s unpredictable and certainly doesn’t suffer fools gladly. He’s worked hard to achieve the success he has, and refuses to be belittled or patronized by anyone.

He has an infectious personality, although it may make his audience blush, but under his prickly exterior is definitely a heart of gold. Johnnie married his wife in 2005, and is the father of Lily (7) and Hari (almost 6), Johnnie lives to provide for his family and states that being a husband and father is his proudest achievement, as well as building a successful restaurant company. Not only has he been party to opening six restaurants, he also physically helps build the establishments he cooks at, keen to put his touch on every part of the business.

Johnnie says it’s “conquering a challenge” and his fierce competitiveness that has inspired him to participate in “Chef Race:  U.K. vs. U.S.”. Love him or hate him, you’ll definitely want to watch him.

Previous TV Experience

-”The Great British Menu 2012″ – BBC

-”The Great British Menu 2011″ – BBC

-”The Great British Menu 2010″ – BBC

-”Perfect”– Good Food Channel