Our team

Chef Aldrin Asencio began his culinary career in his native Uruguay, a vibrant destination known for welcoming travelers from around the world. There, he embraced native, organic ingredients and discovered his passion for bold, rustic flavors—particularly the art of cooking over open flame.

After moving to the United States, Aldrin trained under acclaimed chefs including Roberto Donna and Michel Richard, refining his skills while staying rooted in the soulful, elemental cooking that defines his style.

Together with longtime friend and hospitality veteran John Cosgrove, Aldrin co-founded Open Fire Catering, a chef-led concept focused on immersive, live-fire dining experiences. From wood-fired meats and seasonal vegetables to house-baked breads and smoked sauces, each menu reflects Aldrin’s heritage and his passion for food with depth, purpose, and connection.

Chef Aldrin Asencio

Co-Founder - Executive Chef 

John Cosgrove is a seasoned hospitality leader and business owner with over 25 years of experience in food, beverage, and event production across the DMV region. A native Washingtonian—born in D.C., raised in Maryland, and now a proud resident of Loudoun County—John brings a customer-first philosophy and a deep commitment to community into every venture.

He is the co-owner of Leesburg Public House, a beloved neighborhood gathering place now entering a vibrant new chapter under his leadership with Chef Aldrin Asencio. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and locally inspired comfort fare, John’s stewardship continues the restaurant’s tradition of warmth while introducing a renewed focus on guest experience, service, and staff culture.

John Cosgrove

CO-foundeR

At Leesburg Public House, a beloved neighborhood restaurant in Loudoun County, Aldrin brings that same philosophy to the table—highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a welcoming, community-focused approach to American fare. His seasonal menus strike a thoughtful balance between creativity and comfort, honoring the region’s bounty while building on the restaurant’s trusted legacy.

Chef Aldrin continues to lead with authenticity, blending tradition and innovation to create memorable, ingredient-driven meals that bring people together.

John also co-founded Open Fire Catering, a chef-driven live-fire catering company that blends bold flavors with refined hospitality. Prior to this, he founded Eco Caters DC and spent over a decade leading SuperFd, which served as the Official Team Caterer for several major professional sports organizations—including the Washington Capitals, Wizards, Nationals, Mystics, and Spirit, as well as the LA Kings and the Premier Lacrosse League. This experience reflects John’s long-standing work with elite clientele, from athletes to executives, always marked by discretion, excellence, and a deep understanding of hospitality at the highest level.

With a background in systems engineering and project management, John’s approach is both strategic and hands-on. One of his top priorities is fostering employee-first environments—places where staff feel supported, valued, and inspired to grow. John lives in Loudoun County with his wife and three children.