Looking for an unforgettable evening filled with live music, delicious food, and a welcoming vibe? Visit Uncle Cheef in Brewster, New York, a vibrant music venue that is transforming the region’s cultural landscape and quickly becoming a destination for locals and visitors alike.
Owned by husband-and-wife duo Ian Hendrickson-Smith (also known as Uncle Cheef), a six-time Grammy Award-winning saxophonist and Tonight Show saxophonist, and Jenny Larisey, a creator and designer, Uncle Cheef has quickly become a standout in the region.
After living in Brewster for several years, Ian and Jenny realized that despite the area’s small-town charm and natural beauty, something vital was missing—a place for good cocktails, live music, and a thriving social scene. They saw a clear void and decided that rather than return to New York City, they would fill it themselves. “Jenny and I met in a jazz club,” says Ian. “It’s a lifestyle choice for us.”
The couple’s vision extended beyond simply creating a music venue; they wanted to offer something positive, uplifting, and energizing. Initially envisioning a small venue with light snacks, as the space came together it evolved far beyond their original idea. Jenny’s strong design instincts were instrumental (no pun intended!) in creating a more polished and eclectic look—complete with a stage featuring a gorgeous Yamaha piano and Hammond B3 organ, top-tier sound system, and furniture made by Jenny.
With its intimate setting and superior acoustics, Uncle Cheef is a space for all music genres. Though often referred to as a jazz club, customers are treated to so much more—funk, blues, singer-songwriters—and, if they are lucky, Ian will sit in, too. Ian’s connections in New York City, where the majority of the venue’s performers come from, ensure that every act is handpicked for its quality and ability to connect with the audience. “The hardest part is deciding who not to book because there are so many talented musicians who want and deserve to play here,” says Ian. Staying true to its local roots, Uncle Cheef also showcases new talent from around the region on a semi-regular basis.
Uncle Cheef’s food menu reflects the couple’s musical vision, offering small plates that enhance the performances and 
create a relaxed yet elevated experience. With dishes like Sweet and Savory Nuts, Warm Stuffed Dates, Chopped Kale Salad, Crab Crostini, Po-Boy Style Meatballs, and Ian’s family recipe for Southern-Style Red Beans & Rice, the food is designed to please and complement the music. The drinks menu features craft cocktails and a full bar specializing in tequilas and mezcals, with the Oaxacan Old Fashioned good for making quick friends!
For Jenny and Ian, the goal goes beyond simply leaving people with a good meal and entertainment. “We want every person who walks out of Uncle Cheef to feel their soul is full, their hearts are joyful, and their minds are open,” says Jenny. “We hope they take that energy with them, sharing it with the world.”
As Uncle Cheef continues to grow, Ian and Jenny are focused on expanding their customer base and increasing awareness of their venue. They are exploring new ways to engage with audiences, including streaming performances
