Secret Media Network is made up of teams who make it their mission to uncover and share the most unique experiences in our cities, from temporary exhibitions to newly-opened restaurants. The Secret Media Network 100 is an annual list that celebrates the entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators redefining what it means to live and play in the US.
The SMN100 list features nominees in four categories:
- Arts & Culture: from tattoo artists to gallery curators, these creatives change our perspectives.
- Experiential & Sport: producers, athletes, and those changing the game.
- Food & Drink: the top chefs, restaurant owners, food influencers, and tastemakers.
- Pioneers: for those who defy categories and redefine the status quo!
The SMN100 nominee for Seattle is Johnny Courtney, who is being honored in the Food & Drink category.
Read on to learn more about him!
Johnny Courtney (Food & Drink)
Johnny Courtney is the chef and co-owner of Atoma, a Wallingford restaurant that made a splash in Seattle’s dining scene when it opened in 2024. Atoma is tucked into a cozy Craftsman house and strives to give diners an upscale yet homey experience. You could call it informal fine dining. Courtney has had a global career in restaurants in Australia, Mexico, and Denver as well as several years at Seattle’s iconic fine dining restaurant Canlis as the executive sous-chef. The meals he creates at Atoma have earned the new restaurant widespread acclaim, with Seattleites heading to Wallingford to try the seasonal, local fare and creative cocktails.
The meals he creates at Atoma have earned the new restaurant widespread acclaim, with Seattleites heading to Wallingford to try the seasonal, local fare and creative cocktails. The menu features dishes such as beef tartare with geoduck, lamb saddle with kumquat, and a Baked Alaska with cheddar ice cream. Their delicate Rosette Cookie (a savory bite filled with farmer’s cheese and locally-made onion jam) in particular has created a minor frenzy among diners in the city. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for a treat.
See the full list of SMN100 nominees below: