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The Dave Chang Show

The Romantic Ideal of a Restaurant With Sean Gray

Jan 30, 2025
Chef Sean Gray, formerly of Momofuku Ko and now at Sergeantsville Inn, shares his journey of transforming a historic restaurant into a vibrant community hub. He discusses his innovative culinary approach, including the art of using unconventional cuts of beef. Sean highlights the emotional connections formed in small towns through shared dining experiences. The conversation also touches on the evolving dynamics of restaurant culture, balancing tradition with modern culinary creativity, and the delightful quirks of everyday life, like grocery store etiquette.
01:03:55

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Sean Gray's transition from the high-paced NYC food scene to leading the Sargentville Inn showcases his dedication to community-focused dining.
  • By gradually enhancing the Sargentville Inn's menu while honoring its traditions, Sean fosters a balance of innovation and nostalgia for patrons.

Deep dives

Chef Sean Gray's Journey to Sargentville Inn

Chef Sean Gray discusses his long-standing ambition to open a restaurant in New Jersey, which culminates in his current role at the Sargentville Inn. Having previously worked at the acclaimed restaurant Co, Sean shares how he left behind the bustling New York City restaurant scene to pursue this dream. Over the years, he had romanticized the idea of running a country inn, envisioning a cozy atmosphere where locals and visitors alike could enjoy quality food and beverages. His connection to the Sargentville Inn began as a regular patron, which organically led to his involvement in taking over the establishment.

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