Malik Johnson
Founder & Artist, _With Us.

Born in Los Angeles, CA, Malik Johnson’s passion for the culinary arts began in a household where cooking was a cherished tradition. Influenced by his mother’s love for creating delicious meals and the culinary expertise of his mom’s fiancé, a Sicilian-American restaurateur with a chain of pizza restaurants called Frankie & Johnny’s, Malik developed a deep appreciation for hospitality and the culinary world.

Determined to blend his culinary passion with professional acumen, Malik pursued a business degree at California State University, Fullerton. Immersed in the dynamic environment of 4th Street Market, an upscale dining hall, Malik honed his skills in food preparation, bartending, and preservation, eventually advancing to the role of line cook.

In 2012, Malik joined The Red Envelope, an American-influenced Vietnamese restaurant focused on comfort food. This role enhanced his technical skills and deepened his appreciation for blending culinary traditions.

By 2017, Malik had taken on the role of lead chef at his family friend’s fish fry, the ‘Fish Trap’ in Sherman Oaks. Specializing in Creole-style dishes, Malik infused traditional recipes with his unique flair, earning rave reviews from patrons and further establishing his culinary identity.

In 2018, Malik’s culinary journey took him to SideBar, an elegant bar with a reputation for its Southern-influenced specialty cocktails. Here, Malik thrived in an environment that celebrated both tradition and innovation. Balancing classic Southern flavors with modern twists, he captivated the palates of a discerning clientele. Around the same time, Malik also worked at Postmasters Restaurant, a Southern comfort dining experience by Chef Tyler Watt, where he embraced the richness of Southern cuisine, enhancing his expertise and expanding his culinary horizons.

Later that year, Malik reconnected with friends in Washington, D.C., to establish a catering business and supper club. This venture, rooted in innovative and nostalgic dining experiences, catered to an exclusive clientele and evolved into With Us. Malik’s vision for With Us reflects his commitment to redefining what it means to connect at the dinner table, honoring the intimacy of breaking bread and creating spaces for intentional conversations, vulnerability, and human connection.