Redwoods Staff Spotlight
Get to know our longtime staff members as we celebrate them leading up to our 30th Anniversary Party!
Sean Henry
Sean joined the team in September 1998 as Sous Chef. After nearly a decade in the kitchen, he was promoted to Executive Chef in June 2007 and later became General Manager in 2014.
What began as a job has truly become a home. Over the years, Sean has built close relationships with longtime team members and many guests who have walked through the doors. He especially values the relationship he shares with owners John, Christine, and Pat. Built on shared values, mutual trust, and respect that has grown into lasting friendships.
From his early days in the kitchen to his role today, Sean says he has always appreciated the freedom and opportunity to be creative. Some of his favorite moments are events like the annual holiday party and other times the team gets to spend time together outside of work.
Nicknamed “Stringbean” by owner John, Sean has been part of the extended Redwoods family for many years. John says it’s been amazing to work with him and watch him grow, having worked with him since he was just 16 years old.
Janet Ricciardi
Janet joined Redwoods in 2000, a few years after the restaurant’s Grand Opening in 1996. She saw the direction Redwoods was headed and felt it would be a great place for her to grow.
She began as a server and quickly worked her way into management, taking on new challenges while staying closely connected with guests. Over the years, Janet has enjoyed watching Redwoods evolve from a great family restaurant into a place where people come to celebrate so many of life’s special occasions.
Today, Janet serves as the Party Planner, where she has the pleasure of helping bring guests’ party ideas to life.
Loved by both staff and guests, Janet has become a special part of the Redwoods family over the years. She loves spending time with her whole family and is a proud grandmother.
Like many of Redwoods’ long-time team members, Janet’s years at the restaurant have brought many challenges, friendships, and countless blessings.
Ben Peck
Ben joined Redwoods in June 2007 and became Executive Chef in December 2015.
He graduated from Mendham High School in 1993, earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Loyola College in 1997, and later followed his passion for food at the French Culinary Institute in 2005.
Adopted at age two, Ben was raised by a single mother alongside seven adopted siblings.
As Executive Chef, he enjoys teaching and mentoring others, sharing his culinary knowledge with students, line cooks, and sous chefs. He values creating a kitchen environment focused on growth and learning.
Ben appreciates the talented Redwoods staff, many of whom have been there even longer, and takes pride in being part of such a dedicated team. With the freedom to explore all avenues, from menu planning and daily specials to catering events, Ben brings creativity and passion to his role.
Ben embraces hospitality as the foundation for delivering the best food and service Redwoods has to offer!
More to come!
