Meet Owner & Executive Chef Johnny Hornibrook

Johnny Hornibrook
Johnny Hornibrook is the Owner and Executive Chef of Mystique Dining, responsible for guiding the company’s operations, culinary standards, and long-term direction across all locations.

Johnny’s relationship with Mystique Dining began in the kitchen. He joined the company in 2018 as Executive Chef of the flagship Folsom, California location, where he was entrusted with menu development, kitchen leadership, and culinary execution. As the company grew, his responsibilities expanded beyond the kitchen into broader operational leadership, and he later served as Chief Operating Officer. In that role, Johnny oversaw day-to-day operations, systems, staffing, budgeting, and multi-venue performance, developing a comprehensive, working understanding of the business at every level.

Through years of hands-on leadership, Johnny became deeply involved in nearly every aspect of the organization—from culinary and service standards to performer coordination, scheduling, and operational systems—earning the trust of teams across the company. His ownership reflects that depth of experience and long-standing involvement, positioning him to lead the brand with clarity and confidence.

A career restaurateur, Johnny’s background spans private chef work, multi-unit restaurant operations, and international culinary exposure in Japan and Central America. While not a magician, he brings deep respect for the art of magic and the performers who bring the Mystique experience to life. He views ownership as stewardship: protecting the integrity of the experience, supporting the artists and teams behind it, and ensuring the guest experience remains consistently exceptional.

Under Johnny’s ownership, Mystique Dining operates as an independent, professionally managed hospitality brand—focused on disciplined execution, consistency across venues, and delivering a refined, immersive dining experience for every guest.