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.
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.
Sean's emphasis on culinary creativity is reflected in his transformation of humble ingredients, elevating them to signature dishes that surprise diners.
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.
Revamping the Menu with Local Influences
Sean implemented subtle yet significant changes to the Sargentville Inn's menu while maintaining its core identity. He blends the traditional American fare that characterized the inn with his culinary expertise, allowing the menu to evolve slowly rather than radically changing it overnight. This approach appeals to the local clientele while attracting new visitors curious about his cooking style. For instance, he introduced innovative dishes like his renowned fried chicken, which showcases his dedication to quality and technique.
Tinkering with Ingredients for Unique Dishes
Sean explains his creative process in the kitchen, often characterized by a 'tinkering' mindset that leads to distinctive culinary creations. Highlighted in the conversation is his work with the seven-bone steak, which he discovered at a local grocery store and transformed into a luxury dish through meticulous preparation. The dish draws inspiration from traditional recipes but emphasizes layered flavors and cooking techniques that elevate the simple cut. This commitment to quality transforms forgotten cuts of meat into standout menu items that surprise and delight diners.
Building a Community Around the Inn
Sean discusses the importance of creating a welcoming community atmosphere at the Sargentville Inn, where both locals and newcomers feel at home. He emphasizes his intention to involve regular patrons in the restaurant's evolution to ensure that the inn continues to resonate with its historical roots. By slowly incorporating changes and maintaining open communication with customers, Sean fosters a sense of loyalty and connection within the local community. This approach allows him to transition the inn into a culinary destination without alienating its established clientele.
The Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Sean expresses a desire to continue cultivating the Sargentville Inn's identity while exploring new culinary possibilities. He acknowledges the balance between maintaining quality and evolving with the growing demands of the dining scene. Sean envisions the restaurant becoming a cherished destination that celebrates both local ingredients and the artistry of fine dining. His commitment to excellence ensures that as the inn progresses, it remains a beloved gathering place where memorable meals will continue to be shared.
Dave and Chris catch up with an old friend from Momofuku Ko, chef Sean Gray, and hear about his new endeavor: the Sergeantsville Inn in New Jersey. This historic restaurant is a true romantic ideal of a place where an entire town gathers to eat and enjoy time together, and Sean has ensured they eat well. Friend of the show Noelle joins again for a closing MOIF.
Hosts: Dave Chang and Chris Ying
Guests: Sean Gray and Noelle Cornelio
Video/Audio Producer: Victoria Valencia
Majordomo Media Producers: Kelsey Rearden and David Meyer