John Christen

John Christen is a lifelong restaurateur and the founder and CEO of Himes Breakfast House. He began his career in his parents’ Shells Seafood restaurants, learning every role from dishwasher to operator — an experience that laid the foundation for his approach to hospitality and leadership. After taking over Shells during its toughest chapter, he helped rebuild the brand into a six-unit group before launching Himes in 2020 with his wife Jessica. Designed around both hospitality and work-life balance, Himes reflects John’s belief that restaurants can succeed without sacrificing well-being. Today, he leads the brand and other concepts under the Unparalleled Hospitality portfolio with a focus on sustainability, culture and community.