Over the course of 13 years, John has climbed his way up the ranks at Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar to become the mastermind behind the restaurant’s culinary experiences. After nine years in the grocery industry, John made a seamless transition to the restaurant world and ignited his culinary journey in 2010 alongside Charlotte restaurateur and original proprietor of Bad Daddy’s, Frank Scibelli, at Paco’s Tacos & Tequila, a sister restaurant.
In 2012, John transitioned to a front-of-the-house management role with Bad Daddy’s at the Birkdale Village location, showcasing his dedication and leadership within the organization. He was able to work with Bad Daddy’s corporate chef and innovator of the original Bad Daddy’s menu and culinary direction for over two years, and his impact extended beyond the kitchen as John authored the original front-of-the-house training document and took on the role of standards auditor for Bad Daddy’s in North Carolina.
John’s rise continued with the acceptance of the general manager position at Bad Daddy’s in Ballantyne in 2014. Under his adept leadership, the Ballantyne location became the first in the company to achieve a staggering $3 million per year in revenue. John then went on to embrace the role of district manager in 2016, overseeing a total of eight units across the Greater Charlotte Area and South Carolina. The challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic saw John actively immersed in Bad Daddy’s kitchen, gaining valuable insights that illuminated numerous opportunities on the culinary front.
Most recently, John took on the mantle of challenging the existing culinary direction, refining back-of-the-house protocols, and leading innovation in menu design and limited-time offerings — all while serving as a multi-unit manager and culinary leader, a testament to his multifaceted skills. At the heart of John’s culinary philosophy is a profound goal for Bad Daddy’s — his aspiration is for guests to recognize a Bad Daddy’s burger as “not just another burger,” and he aims to express gratitude to the communities served by delivering fresh flavors, unique burgers and memorable experiences to every guest. In the hands of John Masterson, the culinary journey at Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar promises to be an exciting and unforgettable adventure.
Beyond his professional journey, John’s personal love for food is a vibrant thread woven into the tapestry of his culinary identity. An Auburn University alumnus, he grew up cooking with his grandmother and mother, holding their culinary prowess in high regard and confident that either could rival any good Southern cook. Childhood memories include the iconic chef Justin Wilson on PBS, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for culinary exploration.
