Johnny Santiago

Johnny Santiago's career in the entertainment industry began when he returned from Europe where he studied in England at the University of Reading and worked in Milan as a model with the top agency Marcella's Studio.With Torch restaurant, Johnny set his sights on the underdeveloped and forgotten Lower East Side of Manhattan and quickly created one of the top spots in New York City. Drawing on inspiration from his experiences abroad, Johnny created, designed, developed and operated the 1940's French supper club that pioneered and transformed the L.E.S., while creating a Zagat's top rated restaurant that also enjoyed write- ups and reviews in the International press. Time Out New York described Torch's ambiance and appeal as, "Post Hitler Paris meets pre-Castro Habana".Always looking for a challenge, a creative outlet and a belief in pursuing his passions, Johnny applied to the prestigious William Esper Studio, where he studied with Bill Esper. After completing his studies with Mr. Esper, with the wild success of his restaurant, and in need of a creative outlet, Johnny created the conceptual band Bootä.Once again capitalizing on his instinct and charisma, Bootä quickly became a New York underground sensation. Catching the attention of Sami Yaffa, of Hanoi Rocks fame, soon Bootä was performing and gaining considerable heat, which led to appearances on Japanese and New Zealand television as well as headlining Patrick McMullan's Annual Party at The Regent Ballroom, NYC.Johnny found himself at a crossroad when Torch burned down (yes, it burned down). Now faced with the choice of reopening and expanding his restaurant business or the sudden freedom to pursue other opportunities, Johnny decided to consult in Los Angeles allowing him the time to re-invest in his acting studies.In 2009 Johnny was approached to open a new restaurant. Jo's in Nolita quickly established itself as a neighborhood destination for NYC's fashion crowd.In 2010 Johnny Santiago was rated by Gotham Magazine as one of NYC's top 100 Bachelors alongside Bradley Cooper and Mark Sanchez. Scouted by one of his regulars, Johnny became a fit model for Ralph Lauren and Rag & Bone, and is currently represented by CLICK in NY and LA Models in Los Angeles. Show less «