This week, as part of our Now Serving Series we’re heading to Harlem to kick off a collaboration with JJ Johnson—James Beard Award-winning chef, TV personality, author, founder of FIELDTRIP. 

Keeping it local 

When it comes to partnerships, it’s no secret, we keep our standards high—seeking out leaders in the culinary industry to bring our guests crave-worthy menu items made with local, quality ingredients. We’re thrilled to join forces with Chef JJ to serve NYC Shack fans Little J’s Burger and Curry Crunch Fries for a good cause. 

This one-day-only collab features a gruyere cheeseburger topped with braised bacon, onion mayo, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted potato bun. We’ll also be serving up crispy crinkle cut fries topped with Chef JJ Johnson’s curry crunch.  

Good eats for a good cause 

As a part of our mission to Stand for Something Good®, we’re committed to supporting and investing in our local communities.  

Net proceeds from Little J’s Burger and Curry Crunch Fries will be donated to Rethink Food, an NYC-based non-profit hat turns excess food into nutritious meals for those facing food insecurity. 

Meet the chef 

We recently sat down with Chef JJ to get the scoop on everything from the inspiration behind FIELDTRIP to his go-to Shack order: 

Tell us about yourself and your career.  

My name is JJ Johnson and I'm a James Beard Award-winning chef, TV personality and author! Some would say I’m best known for my barrier-breaking cuisine inspired by Caribbean flavors. In 2019, I opened my first made-to-order rice bowl shop in Harlem called FIELDTRIP. Since opening, we’ve expanded to two additional locations–Rockefeller Center and Long Island City.  

What inspired you to open FIELDTRIP? 

I’m always looking to bring communities together and connect people through food. The inspiration to open FIELDTRIP came from my desire to create a safe space for the community. FIELDTRIP gives people access to healthy food in places where that hasn’t always been an option.  

What makes the Harlem dining scene so special? 

The Harlem dining scene is multicultural, with roots in African American history. Many restaurants are owned and operated by actual residents. Harlem is a community. When food and community merge together it creates culture, and I love it. 

Why partner with Shake Shack? 

When it comes to collaborations, I like to work with brands that have the same views and values that I do. Just like FIELDTRIP, Shake Shack is all about creating community gathering places. Shake Shack is also beloved in my household, so this is an exciting moment for me and my family! I’m very excited for more people in the Harlem community to experience FIELDTRIP flavors through this collab.  

Burning questions 

• What's your go-to Shake Shack order? I love the new Black Truffle Burger, and I always get a side of fries!  

• What are some of your favorite ingredient to cook with? Hot Cheetos, spices, seafood, and bone-in ribeye steak.  

• Describe Little J’s Burger in three words. Flavorful, sensational, universal  

Where and when to snag Little J’s Burger & Curry Crunch Fries 

Shack fans in NYC can grab Little J’s Burger and Curry Crunch Fries on Thursday, October 28th at the Harlem Shack while supplies last. 

Swing by the Shack and order IRL, or skip the wait and opt for contactless payment and pick-up by ordering ahead on our Shack App.