CJ’s Tacos Food Truck in Tennessee: Meet the Chef
We sat down with Executive Chef Chris Jones of CJ’s Tacos Food Truck in Tennessee. CJ’s Tacos in Knoxville, Tennessee is a must-visit because their tacos offer a one-of-a-kind twist on traditional tacos. They pan-fry white corn tortillas to create a perfectly crispy outside and a tender inside—delivering the best texture combination. Every taco features distinctive house-made sauces and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Among our favorites are the Korean BBQ Pork taco, the Asian Fusion taco, and our signature CJ’s Original taco.
CJ’s Tacos Food Truck in Tennessee: Meet the Chef
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
My morning routine Monday-Friday always starts the same way. I wake up early every morning, shower, and head to my office. I’m usually in the office between 5 am- 8 am, depending on what our business schedule looks like that day. As a business owner, I spend a lot of time doing work behind the scenes. All the boring stuff! Responding to emails, filling out booking forms, posting employee schedules, placing inventory orders, and filling out paperwork are all daily tasks for me. If we have a catering or a big food truck event that day, I will head to our kitchen and begin prep work after I leave the office. On the weekends we are usually booked solid, so I help out wherever I’m needed that day.
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
We have been fortunate enough to have quite the trophy case! Here is a list of awards CJ’s Tacos has won since we have opened in 2018: 2018- Knoxville Taco Showdown winner. 2019- Tn Valley Fair “Best International Food” winner. 2019- Knox News Sentinel “Food Truck of the Year” runner up. 2019, 2024 CityView Magazine “Food Truck of the Year” runner up. 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 Knox News Sentinel “Food Truck of the Year” winner. 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 CityView Magazine “Food Truck of the Year” winner.
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
My favorite chef of all time is without question, Bobby Flay. His willingness to blend unique bold flavors and his use of open fire cooking has always been inspiring to me.
CJ’s Tacos Food Truck in Tennessee: Meet the Chef
What do you typically cook at home?
I cook at home quite often. I’d say 3-4 times a week minimum if my schedule allows it. I like to mix it up! I really enjoy cooking a good steak in a variety of different ways. Other dishes I like to cook are Korean Chicken Thighs, Grilled Italian Wings, Baked Chicken w/Mushroom and Garlic sauce, and Cajun Jambalaya.
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
I’m loving the charcuterie board trends right now! People have been getting super creative with the food selections and presentations.
What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
Peanut butter mixed in Chili comes to mind when I think of a strange food combinations. Absolutely delicious!
What drink do you enjoy most?
White Peach Cranberry Juice.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
Yes I have! I was a private chef for singer/songwriter Teddy Swims for an entire work week at a writing retreat in Sevierville, TN. I cooked him breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a late night snack for 5 days straight. It was such an honor to get to know Teddy and his team. He took the time to talk to me on several occasions and I got to know him pretty well. I came to his cabin a big fan, and left an even bigger fan. To meet a man having the success he’s having, be so humble and down to earth was eye opening. By the end of the week, I made a friend in Teddy. We exchanged numbers, and have kept in touch ever since. What an amazing person and an incredible experience!
What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?
My personal is @tacoLegend865 and the truck is @CJsTacosFoodTruck.
CJ’s Tacos Food Truck in Tennessee: Meet the Chef
Why should readers visit CJ’s Tacos Food Truck in Tennessee?
You should visit CJ’s Tacos to experience a type of food that everyone loves, but in a unique way. It will change the way that you view tacos all together. We take pride in the customer service we provide, along with every plate that we serve. If you’re ever in the Knoxville area, make sure to stop by one of our food trucks! We hope to see you soon!