Mountain Shadows Resort Scottsdale, Paradise Valley’s upscale boutique resort situated between Camelback and Mummy Mountains, recently announced the appointment of Tyler Johnson as pastry chef of its signature restaurant, Hearth ‘61.
Johnson found his passion in baking after serving in the United States Marine Corps. After six years in the infantry, he attended the Arizona Culinary Institute in Scottsdale and graduated in 2020. Before graduation, through a school internship program, he had the opportunity to work with and learn from Mountain Shadows’ previous pastry chef, Jordan Stime.
Johnson started at Mountain Shadows in 2021 as a cook and baker, later being promoted to sous chef of the pastry department and finally to pastry chef in September 2024. Having worked exclusively at Mountain Shadows, he has developed a style specific to Hearth ’61 and the needs of the banquet team. In his role, he oversees sweets for the restaurant, events, and weddings at the resort.
“I’m excited to step into this new role, although it will be bittersweet – no pun intended,” Johnson said. “I am honored for the opportunity to make as big of an impression as Chef Jordan did. I hope every guest leaves with a smile on their face from the wonderful desserts our team creates.”
Chef Johnson’s favorite pastry style is French, explicitly working with custards and crème brûlées. His favorite creation so far is his Lavender Crème Brûlée with lemon pearls and honeycomb tuile, which inspired him to incorporate floral flavors and scents when baking. When he’s not busy in the kitchen, he can often be found in his backyard tending to his garden and chickens, crafting with his fiancé to prepare for their wedding, or swimming with his “sled team” — three huskies and a German shepherd.
Tucked away at the western end of the resort, the adults-only Sunset Pool at Mountain Shadows is surrounded by lush desert landscaping and Camelback Mountain views. This exclusive amenity features craft cocktails, light poolside fare and plenty of chaise lounges. With direct views to the west, it’s the ideal spot to admire Arizona’s iconic sunsets.
“We’re so excited to debut this stunning and sleek new pool area,” Vice President and General Manager Andrew Chippindall said. “It’s a beautiful addition to the resort, enhancing the boutique luxury experience we pride ourselves on offering our guests.”
The Sunset Pool is the perfect place to swim in relative seclusion morning, noon and night. Mountain Shadows also offers two 75-foot swimming pools at The Citizens Club, which features cabanas and daybeds, a pool bar and daily fitness classes. For more information, visit mountainshadows.com.
