Meet the Chefs

Shea Ackerman

Chef Shea Ackerman found his passion for the culinary arts at a young age while working at a local Chinese restaurant in high school. He left his home in Minneapolis to explore new culinary challenges, and found his way to Delaware. He started working as the chef’s assistant and is currently the Head Chef at the number two ranked Courtyard Marriott in the world located at the University of Delaware in Newark. Ackerman both teaches and Chef’s for the Brickyard Grille, Courtyard Café and Marriott Center for Learning and Tourism.

Chef Shea works with a multitude of flavor profiles and has a strong interest in Hispanic and Asian cuisines. He enjoys dabbling in the modern methods of “Molecular Gastronomy” and enjoys learning new cooking techniques and experimenting with unique foods. He has cooked his way through the Taste of Newark, Taste of Dover, Newark Wine and Dine, and many other catering and competition events, Chef Shea is proud to say he is a fan favorite every year.

“I strive to deliver excellence and a unique dining experience to every guest that makes their way to my restaurant tables. Food is my passion and service is my mission.”