Tendernism is the new term creeping into our vocabulary and getting everyone salivating for some tender meat. You probably have heard the slang tenderism in a video on social media, but if you still do not know what it means, we got you. Let’s get you familiar with the meaning of Tendernism, its origin, how it became popular and signature concept at Destination Smokehouse restaurant.
Everyone loves barbecue, whether it is brisket, pork ribs, chicken, turkey, or other smoked meats like pastrami and oxtail. While many restaurants and chefs brag about making the best BBQ, social media has popularized the “tenderness test” to prove the tenderness of the meat.
Tenderness at its best is when the bone is held at its end, and the meat falls off in seconds on its own. The creator of the word described the tendernism as “meat so tender, you don’t need no teeth.” It is used to evaluate good barbecue based on how it falls and melts right in the mouth. This article goes into detail about the meaning of tendernism, where it came from, and how it became popular.
What is the meaning of the term ‘tendernism’?
“Tendernism” (pronounced “tén-dah-iz-uhm”) contains two separate words that combine “tender” and “nism.” Although it is not a standard word recognized in the dictionary, it is a popular term used on social media to evaluate meat tenderness. It refers to meat enhanced and marinated with flavor, then cooked slowly over smoke from wood or a grill for hours. Once it is ready, the meat is put to test and expected to fall off easily. It is a delight to the eyes, has a flavorful aroma, and is soft to chew in the mouth.
How did the term ‘tendernism’ become popular?
‘Tendernism’ for BBQ is an informal term that became popular on TikTok and IG after being used repeatedly by a US influencer, Jordan_the_stallion8, and Mr. Walter of Destination Smokehouse. He visited the Smokehouse in Murrieta again earlier this month. In a viral video that gained 3M likes, Mr Walter and Jordan were in front of a platter; he took a brisket to check out the tendernism and threw his glasses when the brisket passed the test by falling. Additionally, after taking a bite of the delicious brisket, Jordan dramatically flung his cap.
Who is the Man Behind “Tendernism”?
Tendernism was coined by Walter Johnson, a staff member at a restaurant called Destination Smokehouse. His constant use of the word made it an instant catchphrase. In his videos for the restaurant, he is always holding the bone to see if the meat falls right down. He became popular for his dramatic reactions, enticing smoked meats, and funny comments. Eventually, he became a viral face associated with the word while promoting the restaurant.
Mr Walter shared the history of the restaurant via IG. He mentioned how it started as a small grill after a meeting with his partner Nick in 2019, before launching in 2020. Some expressed their disappointment after discovering he is not the sole owner of the restaurant, as many had presumed.
All this is an instance of a successful PR when it is done right. Through social media, many that connected with Mr Walter, or “grandpa”, “Mr Tendernism”, as fans like to call him, were influenced to try out the restaurant.
Where is Destination Smokehouse & Eatery?
The Destination Smokehouse is the restaurant involved with the tendernism. Their BBQ meat is featured in the videos, showcasing meat so soft that it melts off the bone, with a taste so rich and infused with slow-cooked flavors. While the popularization of the word is viewed as a marketing strategy, the acceptance of the word was unprecedented. Several other creators have crafted videos visiting the location in person to experience the tenderness. Many other food critics have joined the trend, similarly copying Mr Walter’s dramatic reaction or Jordan’s style of throwing his glasses.
The restaurant is located in Murrieta, CA, and is loved for its tender Black Diamond Oxtails special that easily slides off the bone.
Have you seen any of the videos? Tell us in the comments
