Johnny Leach

The Town Company - Kansas City

The Town Company, helmed by executive chef ​Johnny Leach, ​intertwines rustic roots and refined beginnings. Its sister bar concept, Nighthawk​, is also influenced by L​each’s​ direction. With both concepts, L​each​ folds his hyper-seasonal philosophy into his role. Between his Oregon beginnings, residency in New York City, and reverence for Kansas City history, L​each’s background paints a picture of a dynamic career and excitement to experiment.

Leach​ previously worked at esteemed New York restaurants including Town, Del Posto, and Momofuku, and collected accolades and unforgettable experiences, including an appearance on David Chang’s Netflix original series, “Ugly Delicious.” Along the way, he created lifelong friendships and partnerships, the greatest of which being with his wife, Helen Jo, who will work alongside him as executive pastry chef of​ The Town Company and other hotel outlets. Committed to giving back to his community, Leach’s​ involvement with No Kid Hungry and other charitable organizations connects his professional career and personal values.

Drawing from his experience in the Pacific Northwest, ​Leach’​ s menus highlight hyper-seasonal ingredients from local farms. Leach​ provides a top-to-bottom hospitality experience for guests, using his food to foster a restaurant that doubles as a creative meeting place, and is punctuated by warm embraces.