OUR TEAM
EXECUTIVE CHEF PARTNER SCOTT LINQUIST
Scott Linquist is an acclaimed chef and cookbook author, as well as co-founder of Miami’s trendy taqueria and speakeasy COYO Taco. With more than 30 years of experience specializing in Mexican cuisine, Linquist is thrilled to bring authentic flavors and traditions of Mexico to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Linquist has helped play a pivotal role in redefining Mexican cuisine not only in Miami but all over the world. Since COYO Taco debuted in Wynwood, the taqueria concept can be found in Portugal, Colombia and coming soon to London. Previously, he spent a decade as Corporate Executive Chef of NYC’s iconic Mexican restaurant, Dos Caminos, overseeing the brand expansion across America and published a cookbook, ‘Mod Mex: Cooking Vibrant Fiesta Flavors at Home.’
OWNER/OPERATOR DAVE MCFARLAND
Longtime Asheville restaurateur Dave McFarland is owner of several restaurants, including Xico’s immediate neighbor Daddy Mac’s Down Home Dive. McFarland’s roots run deep in Asheville, where his passion for hospitality began at 14 years old while working in local restaurants. Since then, he has built a successful real estate portfolio while continuing to follow his love for food and restaurants, launching innovative concepts like Tuna Tini’s and becoming the largest Wild Wing Café franchisee, with five locations across North Carolina and Tennessee. The duo met in 2017 when McFarland hired Linquist as a culinary consultant for Daddy Mac’s. “From the moment we met, the collaboration with Scott just clicked,” said McFarland. He added, “With Xico, we’re creating more than a restaurant…it’s a vibe. The fire, the flavors, the artwork, the energy…it all comes together to create an experience that feels real, authentic, and truly unique.”