TPC Sawgrass Welcomes Back Chef Johnattan Hernandez

Exciting news from TPC Sawgrass, home of THE PLAYERS Championship! They’ve just announced their new executive chef, Johnattan Hernandez. With over two decades of culinary experience, Chef Johnattan is set to oversee all culinary operations across the property.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Chef Johnattan back to TPC Sawgrass,” said Kent James, Vice President of Food and Beverage for PGA TOUR Golf Course Properties. “His extensive experience and passion for exceptional dining will be a tremendous asset for our members and guests. We look forward to seeing him and his team enhance our already rich culinary tradition.”

A Puerto Rican native, Chef Johnattan recently led the culinary team at TPC Las Vegas, where his elevated food and beverage program received high acclaim. He previously spent four years as the executive sous chef at TPC Sawgrass from 2018 to 2023, where he contributed to several editions of THE PLAYERS Championship. In his return to TPC Sawgrass, he has already showcased his exceptional talent and leadership, winning the First Tee – North Florida’s Taste of Golf competition, which featured top chefs from the region’s private clubs and resorts.

“I’m thrilled to return to TPC Sawgrass and lead its incredible culinary team—it feels like coming home,” said Chef Johnattan. “I greatly admire the culture here and within the TPC Network and am committed to enhancing it. We aim to deliver unforgettable experiences to our members and guests every night. I look forward to bringing back some beloved dishes while introducing new ones to build upon TPC Sawgrass’ dining legacy.”

Chef Johnattan’s culinary journey began in 2002 at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton in Philadelphia. He refined his skills at Al Sur restaurant in the Art Museum of Puerto Rico and at the Ritz-Carlton in San Juan, where he earned numerous awards, including Taste of the Caribbean’s Chef of the Year. His diverse experience also includes opening a Marriott Autograph Collection in Key Largo, Florida, serving as the executive chef at BLT Market in the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach, and leading the culinary team at Penn State’s Corporate HQ.

With Chef Johnattan Hernandez at the helm, the culinary future at TPC Sawgrass looks brighter than ever. Stay tuned for exciting dining experiences and innovations as he brings his unique flair back to the club.