John, also known as Wookie, has been in the hospitality industry since 2013, starting as a bartender. John made his iconic “Wookie Sauce” while bartending and got offered a position to become a chef. He worked both positions, until joining the Friedman Hospitality Group.

John took on the Sous Chef position at The Beaumont Inn, one of our sister restaurants, in 2015, working alongside their current Executive Chef. He learned many culinary skills while working there.

In 2021, John took on the Executive Chef position at Rikasa, curating his own menu with some of our customer favorites you know and love today. Although John is a Chef in our kitchen, he finds enjoyment in cooking at home. His specialty at home? A good pizza.