Leavander’s 22 Southern Cuisine Catering

About us

Leavander’s 22 Southern Cuisine
Traditional Southern Cuisine & Cocktails

Founded in 2021 by Chef Craig Johnson, Leavander’s 22 Southern Cuisine was inspired by his late brother, Leavander Johnson (World Lightweight Champion), and cherished memories from Grandma Ida’s cookbook. Chef Craig turned his passion for food and family gatherings into an immersive catering and dining experience that celebrates southern tradition, good company, and soulful flavors.

Located in the historic Skyscraper Claridge Hotel in Atlantic City’s Historical Beachfront District, Leavander’s 22 features a full-service bar, a patio, and two private dining areas perfect for special events. Guests can enjoy not only the best of Southern cuisine but also live entertainment in one of America’s most iconic destinations—nicknamed “America’s Playground.”

Chef Craig’s menu brings southern comfort to life, showcasing signature dishes such as:

  • Leavander’s Cajun Shrimp & Grits
  • Melt-in-Your-Mouth Angus Beef Braised Short Ribs (a house favorite)
  • Cajun Lobster & Calamari
  • Grandma Ida’s Warm Homemade Cornbread, served with spicy honey peach butter

For those looking to try something new, don’t miss America’s Playground’s first Sweet & Sassy Catfish and Jumbo Chicken Wings Dry Rub—a house favorite that keeps guests coming back for more!

Whether you’re enjoying the delicious food, handcrafted cocktails, or the warm hospitality, Leavander’s 22 is all about creating moments filled with love, laughter, and celebration. Our catering events are designed to bring family and friends together around the table to share meals, stories, and memories that last a lifetime.

Book your event at our unique venue inside the Claridge Hotel or inquire about our catering services today!

Hall of Fame Boxer

 Leavander Johnson (12/24/1969 – 9/22/2005) Completed a career record of 34-5-2 with 26 wins by way of knockout.  Johnson was born and raised in Atlantic City and trained throughout his childhood and boxing career at the Atlantic City PAL under the watchful eye of his father, who continues to instruct the youths of today.  Johnson first became champion by winning the IBO Lightweight title in 1995.  After three previous attempts failed, Johnson finally captured the vacant IBF Lightweight title on June 17, 2005 with a 7th round TKO over Stefano Zoff in Milan, Italy.  Three months later, on September 17, 2005 in Las Vegas, Johnson unsuccessfully defended his title against Jesus Chavez when the fight was stopped in the 11th round. 

Our Mission

Our mission is to share my grandma Ida’s family authentic Southern cuisine recipes with you, and exceed your dining expectations.

Meet Chef Craig Johnson

 Founder/Owner Chef Craig Johnson’s career spans over 30 years and has taken him around the world. He has studied & trained under TV personality & Master Chef Gustav E Mauler, one of the few American Culinary Federation Certified Master Chefs in the United States. Chef Craig’s down to earth personality and friendly demeanor helps make our guests feel right at home. His first cooking inspiration came from his grandmother (Ida), where at the age of 9 he would help her in the kitchen, as she taught him what it meant to “cook with love” and about “food from the soul” and how to express your love through food. Every Sunday at Grandmother Ida’s house, there was always a lot of love, and a whole lot of food.  Surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins, brothers and sisters, the fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens were all her specialties and are the dishes that Craig loved the most.

Commitment

We are committed to: Creating “Guest for Life” that are loyal to Leavander’s 22 Southern Cuisine brand. Providing a positive, safe, and supportive work environment in which hospitality-minded employees are developed, trained, and rewarded. Continuous improvement, company growth, and fostering lasting relationships with vendors, business associates, and communities where we do business.

The Future

We’re just getting started! Learn more about the next chapter as we merge Leavander’s 22 Express culinary brand, that shares the same passion for creating bold and craveable meals with exceptional guest experiences. Our commitment to quality and to you, our guest, will always be number one. We’re incredibly thankful for all of your love and support…….. 1 Love