Chef Mr Tendernism has addressed the situation after Keith Lee was stopped by security while trying to leave a $5,000 tip after dining at his restaurant.
Watching food reviews online is now hugely popular. Videos of people trying and talking about food are especially trending on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, thanks to a new generation of food reviewers.
Keith Lee is a leading figure in this trend. His TikTok reviews have boosted business for many restaurants, inspiring people to visit after seeing his posts. However, his reviews have also sparked some debate and disagreement over time.
By the end of 2025, Keith visited Destination Smokehouse, a restaurant many had recommended. He tried to tip the chef, Walter ‘Mr. Tendernism’ Johnson, a generous $4,000, and even offered an additional $1,000 to pay for other diners’ meals. Unfortunately, security intervened and wouldn’t allow him to complete the tip.
So, at the end of his review, Keith mentioned that security told him this guy was filming something – he thinks it was a podcast. Apparently, Keith tried to get someone else to hold onto some cash, but couldn’t find anyone to take it.
Destination Smokehouse responds to Keith Lee review
When Destination Smokehouse refused to give a server a tip, it sparked some negative reactions, particularly from the TikTok creator’s followers.
Mr. Tenderism and the restaurant’s head chef, Nick Yepremain, said they were recording a podcast and asked Keith to come back another time.
Yepremain said on the Willie D Live YouTube channel that he would have asked the driver to stop if he’d known the person was nearby. He explained that after contacting him, he hasn’t received any reply, despite believing he was very respectful in his initial outreach.
After watching the review, it didn’t seem to accurately reflect the experience of visiting here. It’s frustrating that even people with large social media followings don’t seem to understand what it’s really like for everyone who comes here.
Johnson suggested he and Keith record a podcast together to address and resolve any misunderstandings. He felt it was the best way to clear things up, saying, “We need to do a podcast.”
“It’s just a misunderstanding. It’s 2026, we gonna clear up everything.”
The TikToker hasn’t yet responded to requests to return to Destination Smokehouse and discuss the situation, and it’s unclear if he ever will.
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2026-01-12 17:19