After graduating from Vanderbilt University in 1994, Jon taught science and math for two years before pursuing his love for cooking and enrolling in the New England Culinary Institute (NECI) in Montpelier, Vermont.
During his tenure at NECI, Jon completed a six-month culinary internship at Mr. B's Bistro in the historic New Orleans French Quarter. In 1997, Jon graduated from NECI and returned to Fort Worth where he honed his cooking skills at local, upscale restaurants.
In addition to his two fine dining restaurants, Jon owns and operates BUFFALO BROS, Pizza, Wings & Subs in the heart of the TCU campus and is the Celebrity Chef for TCU’s Amon G. Carter Stadium, where he oversees the menu for all home football games.
Tasting Chef Jon Bonnell’s cuisine is an experience found nowhere else. Texas foods are transformed into fine cuisine that is enhanced with regional Creole, Southwestern and Mexican spices. Chef Bonnell’s recipes are authentic and impressive, and he uses his knowledge and understanding of food to conceive amazing dishes that surprise and delight fine diners.
Established as one of the foremost experts in fine wild game, Jon can win over even the biggest skeptic by dispelling myths and serving the best-prepared and most flavorful wild game.
Widely known for his dynamic, authentic personality, Jon is an approachable guy-next-door that shares every recipe, technique or ingredient that is requested.