Johnny Courtney

Atoma - Seattle, WA

Johnny Courtney is the culinary force behind Atoma, where his bold and eclectic cooking style has earned national recognition. Since opening its doors in late 2023, Atoma has received numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award nomination for Best New Restaurant (2025), and spots on Esquire’s Top 25 New Restaurants in America (2024), Robb Report’s 10 Best New Restaurants in America (2024), and Eater’s Top 13 Best New Restaurants in America (2024). Locally, Atoma was named SeattleMet’s Restaurant of the Year (2024).

Before founding Atoma, Courtney spent over 15 years cooking in kitchens across the globe. Most recently, he served as the executive sous chef at Canlis, one of Seattle’s most iconic fine dining establishments, where he led as executive sous chef for four years. His diverse career has taken him to acclaimed restaurants in Australia, Mexico, Denver, and Seattle, shaping his culinary perspective with a blend of global influences. A native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Courtney’s passion for food began at home, cooking alongside his mom. His deep respect for hospitality and dedication to seasonal ingredients are evident in every dish he creates. At Atoma, Johnny Courtney invites guests to experience a menu that reflects his journey, a celebration of flavors, stories, and the joy of shared meals.