Sean & Shelly Piper opened Jargon in West Asheville in 2017 after successful careers in the movie industry and museum administration, respectively. In this edition of “Behind the Scenes,” we ask the Pipers about their perfect meal and what excites them about the current menu at Jargon.

— What inspired you to open a restaurant?

Sean: For me, I love being the consummate host and making people feel special. These days, this world can be ugly and hateful, and sharing an amazing dinner experience with friends, family, or loved ones makes memories and reminds us of everything that’s good in the world. I absolutely love it.

Shelly: Originally, I had a whole different career—but sometimes, as a couple, you need to change gears and become a true team in every way. That’s what we’ve done, and in the end, it was really the right decision for us.

— What are you most excited about on the menu right now?

Sean: Our menu changes every day as it reflects seasonality and freshness… but there is a Lavender and Honey Glazed Duck Breast that is just outstanding! I mean, it’s “close your eyes and savor every bite” type of outstanding. A nice glass of Pinot or Grenache is the perfect pair for me. I can just imagine my Dad making all kinds of grunts and moans eating this dish – like Bill Murray’s character “Bob” at the dinner table in the movie What About Bob.

Shelly: I’m into the Agnolotti, the Jezebel cocktail and, of course, any and all of the desserts!

— How would you describe your own perfect meal?

Sean: Great question! My perfect meal would be at home with my wife and son having some home-made fried chicken, mashed potatoes, corn off the cob with cilantro, greens, pan gravy, and a nice bottle of Chardonnay. A close second is dining at any of the amazing restaurants in Asheville with my amazing Jargon crew!  

Shelly: I’m picturing a beach-side restaurant in Costa Rica with amazing views, the freshest seafood, and my family.

— If you weren’t restaurant owners, what else would you be doing?

Sean: After working in the movie industry for 17 years, I’d love to bring all of my amazing technician friends together and direct a film…or be a carpenter.

Shelly: I’d be on that beach in Costa Rica relaxing and learning about all the incredible wildlife and plants.