In late 2020, the culinary landscape of College Park, Georgia, was forever changed with the opening of Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles. A unique dining destination, Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles is the brainchild of celebrity chef Crystal Smith, her Grammy award-winning husband Ne-Yo, and VH1’s Love n’ Hip Hop star Karlie Redd. This Southern gem quickly became a favorite, known for its irresistible combination of crispy fried chicken and golden, fluffy waffles, and has since expanded to locations in Glendale, AZ, Atlanta, GA, and soon, Dallas, TX.

A Taste of the South

At Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, the menu is a homage to the quintessential Southern brunch favorite: chicken and waffles. Guests can customize their dishes with a variety of proteins, bacon-flavored or plain waffles, and an assortment of sauces and sides. Adding to the culinary delight, the restaurant offers signature drinks served in carafes or mason jars, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

The ambiance at Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles is as captivating as the menu. Platinum albums from iconic Atlanta musicians like OutKast, Ludacris, Usher, and Ne-Yo himself adorn the walls, creating a vibrant, music-infused atmosphere. Original artwork and a striking mural of the Harlem-based Apollo Theater further enhance the dining experience, while the neon sign proclaiming “Everyday I’m Wafflin” adds a playful, Instagram-worthy touch.

A Celebrity Chef’s Journey

Crystal Renay Smith, the culinary force behind Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, has a compelling story of resilience and success. Growing up in an underprivileged community in Fort Myers, Florida, Smith faced numerous challenges. Despite these hardships, she and her siblings worked tirelessly for a better future, a testament to her enduring spirit and dedication.

Crystal’s passion for cooking has taken her to national platforms, from appearances on Good Day New York and Good Day Sacramento to sharing her popular “Crystal Creations” recipes in print outlets like OK! Magazine. Her collaboration with Gobble, where she designed a Valentine’s Day meal-kit, sold out in just 24 hours, highlighting her culinary appeal.

Her television career includes starring roles on E! Network’s “Platinum Life” and BET’s “About the Business,” where she showcased her expertise and balanced life in the public eye. But beyond her professional success, it is Crystal’s commitment to giving back that truly defines her. 

Building a Legacy

Crystal and Ne-Yo’s vision for Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles extends beyond creating a dining hotspot. They aim to build a place where the community can gather, celebrate, and feel at home. “Ne-Yo and I aim to make everyone feel at home at Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, and you never know who you’ll see dining alongside you! Anyone who appreciates music will love the ambiance we created in our dining room,” Crystal shared.

As Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles prepares to open its doors in Dallas, the couple’s dedication to excellence and community service continues to shine. They are not only setting new standards in the culinary world but also making a lasting impact on the communities they serve. Through their innovative approach to dining and unwavering commitment to giving back, Crystal Smith and Ne-Yo are inspiring others and creating a legacy of excellence, one delicious meal at a time.