James is as good as it gets! We were always confident in a successful event with James as our liaison. His personable approach, attention to detail and professionalism set the tone that quality results would be achieved. Our organization produces an annual black-tie, 1,500+ guest event and working with James ensured our guests had a first-class experience and he tried to make it better every year. Based on his background, knowledge and skill-set – plus the fact he is an all-around good guy! – we highly recommend his services.

Steven J. Hatchell
President and CEO
The National Football Foundation

Angelo Vivolo
Chairman of the Board
Columbus Citizens Foundation

James Johnson is the ultimate professional in the hospitality industry. His dedication to detail and providing the maximum service and satisfaction to his clients is exemplary. It has been my pleasure to have had the opportunity to work with him on behalf of the Columbus Citizens Foundation and our annual Gala event at the New York Hilton. In my many years of experience in chairing major events at the New York Hilton Hotel, James Johnson has proven to be outstanding in providing excellent leadership and guidance to assure the great success of these events. He is the consummate professional.

My husband and I have had the pleasure of working with James Johnson and the NY Hilton in making two of our children’s wedding, one in 2003, our oldest son and in 2019, our youngest daughter. Fifteen years apart and both times he was a joy and a pleasure to work with. James really listened to the bride and groom in making their dream weddings come true. With all the pressures that go into making and planning a wedding, I was able to enjoy both evenings assured that all was taken care of and we were in capable hands.

Melodie Sharf

Ken Swarthout
Executive Director
New York Baseball Writers Awards Dinner

I have worked with Baseball Writers Association of America New York Chapter for over 25 years. During that time, I have assisted the chapter prepare and present their annual dinner at the New York Hilton where we present the Major League Baseball awards including MVP Player Award, Rookie of the Year, Cy Young Award and Manager of the Year. It has been my pleasure to work with Jay in his capacity as Events Manager at the New York Hilton. His attention to detail, speedy resolution of any problem and total cooperation has made our event an annual sell-out success.

We came to know James Johnson (JJ) in his capacity as Director of Catering at the NY Midtown Hilton and immediately knew we liked this guy! JJ was an absolute pleasure to work with.

From the beginning, our discussions could not have gone any more smoothly and pleasantly. James understands both sides of the equation and treated us with transparency and fairness.

Our events went off without a hitch. From preparation and organization beforehand, to execution throughout our events, everything was as close to flawless as anyone could hope for.

In short, JJ is an experienced, knowledgeable professional, and a delight to work with.

Ronnie Vanderlinden
Michael Toback
Jeff Fischer
Past Chairmen / Banquet Chairs
24K Club of the City of New York

Michael Tiseo
Former Director of Banquets
New York Hilton

I had the pleasure of working with James for five years at the New York Hilton and Towers. I worked closely with James and his clients to make sure we delivered on his promises. It was never about meeting expectations, but exceeding them. James has great skills - he does not sell, instead, he partners with his trusted clients to create their vision and consider every little detail that will make their event outstanding. I spent many a Saturday and Sunday with James helping make dreams come true for his brides. Whether it was a significant wedding or an intimate affair, his incredible effort was unwavering. He never gave less than 110% and was always there for his customers. It was fun to be part of all the wonderful events that James created and I have learned so much from him.

As the Director of Catering for Hilton New York, James hosted Annual Dinners for the JLG for decades. Attendance at each Dinner included 700 to 1,000 attorneys and judges. 

James was involved in every aspect of each event, from assisting with the selection of the dates, to contract negotiation, to hands-on, night-of-the-event coordination.  James was present every step of the way, working, watching, paying attention to every detail and request.   

As the contact for the JLG, I say without equivocation, that James is the singular most professional person with whom I have ever dealt.  There is virtually no detail that we asked James to address at any point in our dealings with him that was not met with, "absolutely" or "no problem" or words to that effect and with grace and a genuine smile.  Moreover, James's professionalism and positive attitude was mirrored in every member of his department staff (assistants, captains, wait staff, etc.).

Although his expertise is unparalleled in the catering field, I wholeheartedly recommend James Johnson for any position, job or task and do so with the confidence of a person who has enjoyed a lifetime of satisfaction with his service.

Bruce N. Lederman
Past President and Chairman of the Board
Jewish Lawyers Guild (JLG)