- Roberto “Birdie” Hernandez, a Longhorn Steakhouse grill chef in Columbus, has grilled more than 1,000,000 steaks during his career.
- Hernandez was named one of Longhorn’s Grill Master Legends — only 36 chefs nationwide have reached the milestone.
- The company surprised him with a special event, a commemorative chef’s coat, $5,000 and a $1,000 annual bonus while he stays with the brand.
- Hernandez has worked with Longhorn for about two decades and is praised for his work ethic and upbeat personality.
Local chef reaches national milestone
Roberto “Birdie” Hernandez, a longtime grill chef at Longhorn Steakhouse’s Columbus-area restaurants, has been recognized by the chain after grilling more than 1,000,000 steaks during his tenure. According to a corporate press release, Hernandez is now part of Longhorn’s Grill Master Legends — a select group of chefs nationwide who have hit the one-million-steak mark.
A rare honor at Longhorn Steakhouse
Only 36 chefs across the United States have been named Grill Master Legends, the company said. The program highlights long-serving kitchen staff who consistently deliver quality and demonstrate dedication. Hernandez’s recognition places him among a small group celebrated for both volume and craftsmanship at the grill.
Company celebration and rewards
Longhorn surprised Hernandez with an in-restaurant event where he received a special chef’s coat and a $5,000 one-time award. The company also committed to an additional $1,000 annually for as long as Hernandez remains with Longhorn Steakhouse. The press materials noted his two decades with the brand and credited him as a backbone of the Pickerington and Columbus kitchen teams.
Colleagues and customers applaud the achievement
The press release highlighted Hernandez’s upbeat attitude and sense of humor, saying he’s known within his restaurants for leadership, commitment and a dependable work ethic. Managers and co-workers said the recognition reflects both his skill on the grill and his role in the restaurant’s daily operations.
What the milestone means for restaurant staff
The Grill Master Legends honor underscores Longhorn’s effort to spotlight long-term employees whose labor often goes unseen by guests. For grill chefs like Hernandez, the milestone reflects countless shifts, sustained quality control and the ability to handle peak service hours while maintaining standards.
Why this story matters locally
Hernandez’s award is a local moment of pride for the Columbus and Pickerington communities where he has worked for years. It also serves as a reminder of the thousands of kitchen staff who keep casual dining restaurants operational, day after day.
Longhorn Steakhouse’s public announcement celebrates Hernandez’s achievement and the chain’s broader program to recognize veteran employees. The company’s formal press release provides further details on the Grill Master Legends program and the list of chefs who have reached the one-million-steak milestone.
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