Sean Smith has been around chefs his whole life. His mother and stepfather moved from Boston to Winchendon when he was 12. There, he played local sports for many years, and joined a youth program known as C&C Boxing.

While growing up, his mother made traditional Puerto Rican dishes, such as Mofongo, Tostones, Arroz con habichuelas and many more. So for many summers, Sean would help in the kitchen with his mother, feeding a family of 8.

When he was 14, he went into the restaurant business, first studying with Chef Paul Wilson as a Chef Apprentice at The Brass Pineapple in Winchendon.

He joined the American Culinary Federations local chapter as junior member, and for many years, he worked with local chefs, in various locations where he was able to craft his culinary skills. He became the Executive Chef at the Colonial Hotel in Gardner MA at only 23 years old. At age 25, Sean worked for Chef Richard Romaine for 8 years as a Sous Chef at Romaine’s Kitchen and Bar. Sean’s big test, however, was opening Great Road Kitchen in Littleton, MA with Chef Chris Frothingham as a Chef de Cuisine.

After a stint working at the The Fay Club in Fitchburg MA as their Executive Chef, Sean proudly opened 873 Café and Tavern in Ashby, MA in 2021.