Madrona Asheville Circle M logo in Chili Red
Chef Sean in front of a Madrona tree

MEET CHEF SEAN 

Originally from Santa Cruz, California, Sean began his culinary journey at just 14, assisting with ice cream confections. From butcher to chef, his path has included catering, teaching, and hands-on experience across the industry. Now rooted in Western North Carolina, Sean blends his deep culinary expertise with a strong focus on hospitality.

Madrona  

The Meaning Behind the Name

For Sean, Madrona isn’t just a name, it’s a reflection of his roots, values, and culinary vision. Inspired by the Madrone tree, native to the West Coast, its vibrant bark and long-burning wood evoke both beauty and strength—qualities he brings into his cooking, especially in BBQ, where that steady heat matters most.

But the meaning runs even deeper. In Spanish slang, Madrona translates to “Doting Mother,"
a nod to the nurturing power of food made with love. That sentiment is at the heart of every dish Sean creates. Influenced by bold, flavor-forward Spanish culinary traditions, his cooking is all about warmth, spice, and leaving people feeling cared for, one delicious bite at a time.
Madrona Asheville Circle M logo in Chili Red
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