Industry Night with Nycci Nellis kicks off today from the heart of Union Market District, a neighborhood that has transformed remarkably over the past fifteen years. Nycci recalls a pivotal gathering where visionaries like Jodie McLean of EDENS envisioned a thriving food hall, setting the foundation for what is now DC’s Meatpacking District, complete with high-rises, vibrant restaurants, and bustling retailers.
In this episode, Nycci sits down with key figures shaping the culinary landscape:
- Chef Edward Lee, recently honored with the James Beard Humanitarian of the Year award, discusses his non-profit Korean fine dining restaurant, Shia, and his initiative, LEE (Let’s Empower Employment), aimed at driving industry change.
- Michael Rafidi, a James Beard Award recipient for Outstanding Chef, shares insights from his Michelin-starred Albi, the popular Yellow Bakeries, and his latest venture, La Chocron.
- Andra ‘AJ’ Johnson, a James Beard Nominee and Managing Partner at Serenata, talks about her role in Black Restaurant Week, her upcoming book "White Plates, Black Faces," and her efforts with the Chef’s for Equality committee.
Together, they explore the current state of the hospitality industry, tackling critical issues such as sustainability, equitable practices, and the creation of inclusive dining experiences. This episode offers a compelling look into how culinary artistry intersects with social impact, driven by leaders who are redefining the way we eat, drink, and gather.
Join Nycci for an insightful discussion with the minds behind DC’s culinary revolution.
Chapters:00:00 - Introduction
00:50 - Dinner of Visionaries in Shaw
03:35 - Culinary Conversations with Chef Edward Lee
07:08 - Starting Over: A Journey Rediscovered
12:42 - Women's Chefs Empowerment Initiative
15:10 - Sustainable Restaurant Think Tank
18:28 - Culinary Journey to Palestinian Roots
22:16 - From Childhood Cuisine to DC Culinary Scene
25:03 - Neighborhood Bistro-Bar Concept
27:34 - Chefs for Equality Leadership
30:52 - Effortless Appearance Misleads Effort
33:24 - Hospitality Diversity and Recognition Rise
42:22 - Bar Etiquette and Reciprocity
46:06 - Kitchen Culture and Media Misrepresentation
46:51 - Empowering Employees Amid Rude Customers
52:49 - Neighborhood Revival and Cultural Fusion
55:54 - "Industry Night Panel Highlights"
56:44 - Engaging with Thought Leaders
56:51 - Outro
Quotes:"A restaurant is more than a meal—it's a creative experience that invites guests to return."- Edward Lee
"Sharing my childhood flavors turns cooking into a journey of discovery and storytelling."- Michael Rafidi
"Building connections and empowering everyone creates a welcoming, inclusive environment."- Andra "AJ" Johnson
Key Takeaways:The Neighborhood and Visionaries
James Beard Award Discussion
The Lee Initiative
The Concept and Goals of Shia
Yellow - Bakery and Casual Concept
La Chocron Discussion
The Concept and Impact of Serenata
The Role of the Neighborhood
Future Look and Highs for the Year
Guests Social Media Links:Edward Lee:
Instagram:
Chef Edward Lee |
Shia DCWebsiteAJ Johnson:
Instagram:
White Plates Black Faces |
Serenata DCWebsiteMike Rafidi:
Instagram:
Chef Micheal Rafidi |
Albi Wash DC |
Yellow The Cafe
