GERMANTOWN CAFE - Key Persons


Jeff Martin

Job Titles:
  • Chef
  • Chef / Managing Partner
Jeff is a 5th generation Nashville native, born with a natural calling to the kitchen. His love for cooking began in his early years and started to flourish when he was a teenager at his first restaurant gig. He honed his skills at Jackson's Bar & Bistro/Rumba before joining Germantown Café in 2008. Over the years, the café has become home, guests have become close friends and teammates have become family. As chef/partner, Jeff is devoted to serving the neighborhood his classic American cuisine, with a southern twist and dash of French technique. Mentored by Tom Sheffer and Germantown Café original founders, Chris Lowry and Jay Luther, Jeff will continue to embody the GTC legacy as we evolve into the next phase of our journey.

Sean Lyons

Job Titles:
  • GM / Managing Partner
Born and raised in Chicago, Sean launched his career as a young teenager and busboy for a local restaurant, while interning in the kitchens of Michael Jordan's One-Sixty Blue and acclaimed Boka Restaurant Group. After studying finance and management at Purdue University, Sean ultimately landed a position with the Hillstone Restaurant Group running kitchens throughout the US. With over 15 years of performance experience, Sean stepped away from the industry to seize an opportunity to travel nationally as a professional ballroom dancer. In 2018, he returned to partner with Dream Hotel Group to combine his passions of entertainment & food. During his tenure, they built several concepts which have turned into favorite destinations for locals and visitors alike. Having a soft spot for Germantown and its neighborly atmosphere, Sean found himself frequenting Germantown Café as his go-to spot. Falling in love with their rich history and future potential, he joined the team as their newest managing partner to help evolve into the next chapter!