Industry Night with Nycci Nellis

Today’s Industry Night comes to you from one of my favorite spaces in the City Ridge development, the light-filled Anna’s House greenhouse. Huge thanks to the City Ridge team for hosting and for creating a place where design and community truly intersect.

This episode brings together two builders working in very different (but deeply connected) lanes.

First, Chef Erik Bruner-Yang, a chef who helped change the conversation in DC hospitality 20 years ago with Toki Underground on H Street NE. From Maketto and ABC Pony to Bar Providencia and now Manifest, Erik has continuously pushed food...

This was an amazing show. I had a whole list of questions ready for my guest, but the second we sat down, we dug in deep and went off-script. We followed some fantastic rabbit holes: Michelin stars, hustle vs. flow, culinary storytelling, leadership, and the future of dining both here in D.C. and across the country.

On this episode of Industry Night, I’m coming to you from Yume Sushi, the flagship of the Yume Hospitality Group and the place where their “dream” first began. I’ve had the absolute pleasure of taking this show on the road wit...

Hey, it’s Nycci! Welcome to Industry Night: my pod/vod love letter to the people who feed us, pour for us, and keep the DMV delicious. We’re posted up in Georgetown at Rimtang —huge thanks to Cici Yang, Chef Saran “Peter” Kannasute, and Chef Prapit “Mama” La Femina — for hosting this shiny new residency.

Today’s guest! My friend Chef Rock Harper. You know him, Hell’s Kitchen winner, community builder, Queen Mother’s fried-chicken maestro, and now the mind behind Hush Harbor, DC’s first phone-free bar on H Street NE. We talk about presence over doomscrolling, Sout...

Get ready for a wealth … I mean a WEALTH …  of Whiskey knowledge.

Today I am not at one of my Industry Night residencies. No City Ridge, no restaurant, no bar. I am actually home, surrounded by my plants… and, believe it or not, a frankly ridiculous amount of whiskey.

I went to my own bar and pulled a little selection for today because I am very honored to be joined by someone who has probably forgotten more about whiskey than most of us will ever know: Noah Rothbaum.

Noah is the spirits editor at Men’s J...

Hey all,  it’s Industry Night with me, Nycci Nellis. And yes, today I am coming to you from home. Don’t panic! I still have all my residencies — a.kitchen + bar in the West End, Fauquier County’s “Fauquier Fabulous,” City Ridge, and of course my ongoing work with the Yume Hospitality Group — but today’s guest is traveling, and after having him on Foodie & The Beast, I knew we needed more time to go deep. Because here’s the thing: everybody talks sustainability. Everybody puts “responsibly sourced” on a sign or a menu. But today’s guest? He’s actually doing it, on a m...

Hey, it’s Industry Night, and I’m kicking off a brand-new residency with the YUME Group, coming to you from their stunning spot tucked into Cady’s Alley in Georgetown — and trust me, if you know, you know. I’ve known Chef Peter Kannasute and his partner-in-life-and-operations Cici Kannasute for years, and I couldn’t be more excited to spend the next few months exploring their evolving culinary world and the creative force that fuels it.

First up, I sit down with the trio behind YUME: Jeff King — Co-Founder and Managing Partner, the visionary builder who turns dreams into ta...

Hey everyone, welcome to Industry Night. Today we’re taking a day trip to Warrenton, Virginia, and we’re filming from the beloved Claire’s. Huge thanks to Laura Torpy and the team at Fabulous Fauquier—aka Fauquier Fabulous—for getting us here and showing us the lay of the land.

I launched this road-show series about a year ago, crisscrossing the region to spotlight communities that are rewriting what small town means. Over the last 30+ years, places like Warrenton have invested in people-first main streets, not just big-box corridors. We’re talking independent restaurants and retail, real work-live-pl...

It’s hard when the mic turns on me—I’m wired to ask the questions. But today I’m in the hot seat for a special crossover: Industry Night × When You Just Want a Glass of Wine with Zena Polin & Renee Gentry. We’re recording on Historic 23rd Street at Beauty Champagne & Sugar Boutique, presented by the National Landing BID (cheers to a neighborhood that spans Crystal City, Pentagon City, and Potomac Yard and keeps raising the dining bar —> think Water Park vibes, new hits like Bar Colline, Bar Chinois on Crystal Drive, NiHao, Taqueria Xochi, Surreal, plus stalwarts like Beauty).

We’re to...

Welcome back to Industry Night with me, Nycci Nellis.

I’m here today at Capital One Center in Tysons, Virginia,  a 35-acre mixed-use development that has completely redefined this part of Fairfax County. It’s not just office towers and retail; it’s a cultural hub with Capital One Hall, The Watermark Hotel, Capital One Park, and The Perch,  a three-acre skypark with a biergarten, food trucks, and even mini golf. And built into all of it is a deep commitment to the arts, whether that’s public sculptures, world-class performances, or what’s plated in the restaurants here.
Duration: 00:36:23

Welcome back to Industry Night, the podcast where we dig deep into what’s cooking, literally and figuratively—across the culinary, hospitality, and creative industries. I’m your host, Nycci Nellis, and today I’m once again coming to you from City Ridge, a dynamic new development that has redefined a massive corner of Northwest D.C.

What was once the historic Fannie Mae headquarters is now a 10-acre, mixed-use community, home to residences, shops, a Wegmans, an Equinox, and a growing collection of destination restaurants.

And today, I’m thrilled to be sitting down in one of the...

Welcome back to Industry Night, the podcast where we dig deep into what’s cooking, literally and figuratively, across the culinary and hospitality industries. I’m your host, Nycci Nellis, and I’m thrilled to kick off my new residency at City Ridge!

City Ridge isn’t just another development, it’s a 10-acre reimagining of the former Fannie Mae headquarters into a thriving mixed-use community. Think Wegmans, Equinox, sleek residences, buzzing restaurants, and thoughtfully curated retail. As someone who’s always been fascinated by how large-scale developments come to life, especially when it comes to nailing the aesthetic an...

This week’s Industry Night has it all, historic preservation, stunning design & rum-soaked nostalgia.

We recorded on-site at Annex on 12th, a posh new residential community that brings serious Art Deco glamour to what was once the USDA Cotton Annex. First up is Stephen Johnson, Senior Community Manager and a walking encyclopedia of the building’s past lives. From presidential vault doors to luxe speakeasies (yes, The Vault is real), Stephen walks us through how this adaptive reuse project blends D.C. history with modern luxury.

Then … drum roll, please … I catch up with an old, old, old...

Hey there, Nycci Nellis here, and welcome to another episode of Industry Night!

Today’s show is a special one. I’m coming to you from the gorgeous, sun-dappled patio of a.kitchen+bar in the West End of DC. Seriously, it’s a little oasis right in the middle of the city, so chic.

Later in the show, I am joined by two of DC’s biggest hospitality stars,  Chad Spangler and Glendon Hartley. You know them from the award-winning Service Bar, Causa, and Amazonia, and we dive into their journey, their evolution, and what’s next for...

Hey there, it’s me—Nycci Nellis—and welcome back to Industry Night!

Today’s show is a big one. We’re talking steak, style, and serious star power. That’s right, I’m coming to you from the stunning CUT DC, the sleek, modern steakhouse tucked inside Rosewood Washington, D.C., right in the heart of Georgetown.

Now, if you’ve ever had a dry-aged ribeye that made you want to cry happy tears or a martini that just hit different, then you’ve likely been touched by the culinary genius of Wolfgang Puck—a global hospitality i...

Well, hello bubbles! It’s me, Nycci Nellis, and welcome to Industry Night, where we sip, swirl, and spill the sparkling tea on all things delicious.

Today’s episode comes to you from Apéro—the utterly charming Champagne and caviar bar tucked right at the entrance of Georgetown. It’s the kind of place where every glass is a celebration and every corner is camera-ready.

I’m starting things off with Elli Benchimol, the visionary behind this little gem and its upstairs sister space, La Bohème. She’s created a haven for Champagne lovers, cocktail seeke...

I am back at Jackie for the last of my residency here. And it has been amazing. So grateful to Dmitri Chekaldin and his team for the tremendous hospitality!  Now today’s show — You all know I love a great story — especially when it’s poured into a glass.

Today’s guest brings us not just a story of Scotch whisky, but one of rebellion & innovation, — all bottled up on the rugged west coast of Scotland. Joining me is Chris Maybin, Nc’nean Distillery’s Head of Commercial and self-proclaimed Quiet Rebel — which, if you know Scotch, sounds a lot like a revolu...

Hello everyone, and welcome back to Industry Night with Nycci Nellis!

I’m back out in Fabulous Fauquier—or as I love to say, Fauquier Fabulous! If you’ve been following along, you know this isn’t my first time out here. Over the last year, I’ve practically set up camp in this charming part of Virginia, thanks to the amazing partnerships I’ve formed with Laura Torpy and the countless inspiring conversations I’ve had with local changemakers.

We’ve explored agriculture and husbandry with Amanda Luhowiak of The Whole Ox, and enjoyed an unforgettable co...

In this bonus episode of Industry Night, host Nycci Nellis welcomes Moe Yamada, known as Kimono Mom, to the studio. Moe shares her journey from being a geisha in Japan to becoming a culinary ambassador across the United States. As they prepare a katsu chicken sandwich together, Moe discusses her renowned umami sauce and its role in introducing Japanese flavors to American kitchens. Their conversation also explores Moe's experiences traveling in an RV with her family, connecting with her audience, and promoting Japanese cuisine nationwide. Join Nycci and Moe for an insightful discussion that blends cultural perspectives, practical cooking tips...

On this episode of Industry Night, I’m back at the serious art-flecked Jackie in the Navy Yard. And, I am  sitting down with two dynamic women who are making waves in the hospitality and food space — Nina Oduro and Ehime Eigbe.

Nina Oduro is the co-founder of Dine Diaspora and Black Women in Food, organizations dedicated to celebrating and amplifying the voices of Black women in the food industry. Through curated experiences, storytelling, and community-building, Nina has been instrumental in connecting culinary talent with opportunities for growth and recognition.

Ehime Eigbe is the found...

Welcome back to another episode of Industry Night! Today, we're tackling a pressing issue in the world of wine: tariffs. Join our host Nycci Nellis as she sits down with a panel of industry experts including Erik Segelbaum, Vanessa Cominsky, Michael Scaffidi, and Brent Kroll. We'll explore how these tariffs could impact not just wineries and distributors, but also your favorite restaurants and the contents of your glass. From the intricacies of the three-tier system to the broader economic implications, we'll break down what you need to know. Whether you're a casual wine drinker or an industry insider, this conversation...

Picture a kitchen where every dish echoes the rich traditions of Colombia’s culinary heritage. Nycci Nellis has been expanding her residencies across the city—starting today at Ellen’s, next week at Jackie, and then in Fauquier—bringing engaging conversations with exceptional guests to her audience.

Recently, Nycci spent time in Medellín, Colombia, staying at the luxurious El Cielo Hotel. Her mornings in the vibrant Provenza neighborhood led to memorable culinary experiences, including:
Exploring Colombian agriculture at a stunning chrysanthemum farmTasting aromatic coffees on a local coffee farmDiscovering the craftsmanship behind Colombian spiritsEnjoying exceptional meals prepared...

Welcome to Industry Night. A few months ago, Ellen Yin shared her journey with us, highlighting her High Street Hospitality Group, including A. Kitchen + Bar, Fork, and High Street Restaurant & Bakery. Now, Ellen, along with Chef Eli Collins and Diana Kendrick, has invited me to join them for a new residency at A. Kitchen + Bar in the Aka Hotel, Washington Circle. Throughout the year, I’ll be hosting four shows from this vibrant location, engaging with the team and exploring their latest initiatives.

Celebrating Women in the DMV This March

As March unfolds, we honor National Wo...

Welcome to Industry Night, hosted by Nycci Nellis. This week, we feature Giulio Adriani, an accomplished pizzaiolo who has significantly influenced the pizza scene in Italy and the United States. As a Guinness World Record holder and founder of acclaimed restaurants in New York and DC, Giulio has introduced innovative techniques, including flash-fried Neapolitan pizza.

In this episode, we explore Giulio's journey from his upbringing in Rome and training in his grandmother's kitchen to his emergence as a leading pizza expert. We discuss the essential elements that make a pizza exceptional, examine various styles such as New York...

Welcome to Industry Night. I'm Nycci Nellis, and today we highlight two chefs transforming Washington D.C.'s culinary landscape. At Jackie in the Navy Yard, Chef Domenico Cornacchia leverages his experience from Café Milano to create menus that resonate with a diverse, younger audience, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and value-driven offerings.

Joining him is Chef Johanna Hellrigl of Ama, an all-day dining establishment focused on sustainability and health-conscious cuisine. Drawing from her family's legacy in Michelin-starred restaurants, Johanna has developed a restaurant that prioritizes regenerative ingredients and fosters a sense of community.

This episode delves into h...

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, an...

What does it take to build a thriving restaurant empire in a competitive city like Washington, DC? And how can something as simple as a dessert become a catalyst for meaningful change?

Today, we’re joined by two visionaries who have shaped the city’s food scene in distinct yet equally impactful ways. Dmitri Chekaldin, the mastermind behind DBG Hospitality, has transformed the dining experience with beloved establishments like Dacha Beer Garden in Shaw and the newly launched Jackie in Navy Yard. His focus on vibrant community spaces and exceptional hospitality has cemented his place in DC’s restau...

Hi, everyone! The holidays may be behind us, but we’re diving headfirst into 2025. Can you believe it? Happy New Year! I’ve been reflecting on what an incredible 2024 it was, and wow—what a ride!

Let’s start with travels: I’ve been all over the map! St. Martin’s Grand Case? Check. Medellín, Colombia? Absolutely—coffee tastings and Michelin-starred meals galore. New Orleans for the Beard Conference? You bet, and I ate everywhere. If you want the full scoop on my adventures (and what I ate), head to my Insta highlights.

Closer to home, the DMV f...

Hello everyone. Look I am somewhere new. You may recall the four shows out at Barrel Oak Vineyards. Remember that? Every week I would drive out and let the blood pressure just drop. And what did I tell you I did after every trip? I would drive down the road from Barrel Oak in to the pretty little town of Marshall. I’d stop by Red Truck Bakery for a few cookies and then I would have a late lunch at the Whole Ox where I’d order the The Big Ox two 1/3 lb beef patties ground in house with spec...

So it’s good to be back with you. Last week was pretty special being out at Fauquier County - horse country - letting the blood pressure drop as I left the city and drove out to Marshall. If you haven’t heard my chat with the amazing butcher boss babe, Amanda Luhowiak, owner of The Whole Ox — you need to — and take a scroll through insta to see all the deliciousness. NOW This week I do have another pretty incredible woman joining me. As many of you know, most of my family resides in Philadelphia. My brother, his wife and my d...

Per usual there is so much there’s so much going on and I’ve been eating, drinking, rubbing shoulders and shaking hands — I have really found myself chatting with some of the very best and brightest in the Industry - including today’s guest. I really do love what I do. Let’s go down memory lane shall we? I mean if you follow me on insta than you see a lot of what I am doing but you know I want to chat about it!  And then I will be bringing on this week’s guest:Journalist-turned-director-turned-activist: Joanna James. Joanna...

Last I left off that I was having lunch at Jose’s with Alice Waters and Joan Nathan — and a few others because Alice was in town to receive Julia Child Foundation award AND I was there at the Museum of American History and so was former award winners, Danny Meyers, Sean Sherman, Grace Young, Jacques Pepin on and one of my guests today  Toni Tipton Martin — to honor Alice who has been a champion of local sustainable agriculture for over four decades.


So that is the perfect segue to Toni Tipton Martin and Morgan Bolling.

Duration: 00:43:14

Hello it’s so good to be back on air. I did take another little break and there is a reason for that! I’ve had stuff!  There’s so much going on and I’ve been eating, drinking, emceeing and cavorting with some of the very best and brightest in the Industry. So as per usual I’m going to take you on a  little trip down memory lane on where I have been and what I have been doing.  AND then and only then I will be bringing on this week’s guest - the lovely and always entertaining Jo...

Hello it’s so good to be back on air. Took a little break — well not really a break I’ve been working but I took a few weeks off from this show to get inspired and bring renewed energy. And Wow! There’s so much going on and I’ve been eating - per usual and doing — also per usual  So take a virtual trip with me of where I have been before I bring on this week’s guest Monica SaigalTook a working vacation out of town and went to the Eastern Shore. Stayed at a lovely air bnb with a pool...

So today I am back with the Peter Chang family at their latest restaurant in the DC Area - NiHao Arlington, at the new Amazon headquarters at National Landing in Arlington, VA. The vibe is very hip and summery, with an airy street-facing bar and lots of delicious small plates. Lydia Chang designed the gorgeous space and I cannot wait to catch up with her. ALSO on this show is good friend and recent James Beard & RAMMY award winner Masako Morishita — so excited to have two boss babes with in with me today.

I met Masako before she wa...

Hello and welcome to another episode of Industry Night! Taking a break this week from residencies — although haven’t they been fun?! Loved being out in Delaplane, Virginia sitting amongst the vines of Barrel Oak  and the mountains of the Shenandoah off in the distance. It such a treat to tape this show on location but sometimes, just sometimes,— my guests are all the way across the country so we pop on the screen to chat here in my not nearly as sexy as a vineyard … office.

So for those of you who know me it takes a lot for m...

Hello there and welcome to another episode of Industry Night with me, Nycci Nellis. I am in Delaplane at the beautiful Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery for the last show of the residency. So incredibly grateful to the team here for hosting me and the show.

I just love the ride out here. Just a 60 minute drive from DC and here I am at this beautiful winery and brewery. Every week after the show I take a little ride around the area and do something different like a hike on lost mountain — one of my favorite hikes or a st...

Well, hello there and welcome to another episode of Industry Night with me, Nycci Nellis. I am back in Delaplane at the beautiful Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery.


One of the things I love most about living in the DC Metro area is that we are just a short drive to a completely and totally different experience. I mean — truffle hunting in Virginia?! Yes please. Stayed tuned for that Culpeper show and follow me @nyccinellis for all the photos, videos and highlights from that trip.

And to my point about how close we are to different ex...

Well, hello there, and welcome to another episode of Industry Night with me, Nycci Nellis. If you are watching the show, you may be like — she is at a winery but not the one she was at last episode — and you would be right! This week, I am taking a break from Barrel Oak in Delaplane and out further in Virginia! I am in Culpeper, Virginia, at the Old House Vineyard. It's a Vineyard, A Brewery, A Distillery, a restaurant, and so much more! And more about that in a minute. Let me tell you how I got here: A year...

Hello again. Here I am out in beautiful Delaplane at the magnificent Barrel Oak Winery and Brewery. My residency is out here for a good part of the summer and can I just tell you what a treat it is to be out here? So if you live in the DMV or in the Philly area or really anywhere this part of VA — the Fauquier and Loudon Counties — of Virginia. As you drive out here and the highway gives way to a two lane road — and the strip malls morph into pastures with cows and horses. Your blood pressure just comes...

Did you miss me — probably not because a new Industry Night shows up in your inbox every week. But your girl here has been in Chicago for a few days for the James Beard Awards. AND

OMG — so incredible. It’s hard to put into words how special it is to be out there with so many of the most important creatives who are changing the food space one bite at a time.

The media awards are always a cozy affair and powerful. I always walk in there and think I am so well read — and then I l...

Welcome to another episode for Industry Night. Today is my last session at the Capital Jewish Museum and even though I am so so excited about my next residency at Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery in Delaplane, VA — and the guests that will be joining me like Jarad Slipp and a fabulous VA wine maker panel — The last month of shows at The Capital Jewish Museum have just been amazing. If you are just tuning in, the CJM celebrates DC’s Jewish heritage — it is full of incredible stories of Jewish people from all around the world who made their way to this...

Welcome back to another episode for Industry Night. If you are joining me on YouTube you can see I am still here at the Capital Jewish Museum. The Capital Jewish Museum celebrates DC’s Jewish heritage — it is full of incredible stories of Jewish people from all around the world who made their way to this city and were integral in laying the foundation for the vibrant community we live in today.

As you know, there is a new exhibit here the “I’ll Have What She’s Having” it explores The Jewish Deli and how American Jews imported tra...

And welcome back to another episode of Industry Night. If you join me on YouTube, you will see I am in a new location this week.   I am in a new location for the next four weeks and a little excited about it. Back in September, I was here at the Capital Jewish Museum for a sit down with the team to talk exhibits, architecture, and programming. And speaking of programming, the Capital Jewish Museum has this fantastic new exhibit, "I'll Have What She's Having": The Jewish Deli it explores how American Jews imported traditions, adapted, and built community through t...

Welcome back to another episode for Industry Night. If you are joining me on YouTube you can see I am back at the Capital Jewish Museum and as I mentioned last week I am a little more than excited about being here. The Capital Jewish Museum celebrates DC’s Jewish heritage — it is full of incredible stories of Jewish people from all around the world who made their way to this city and were integral in laying the foundation for the vibrant community we live in today.

The new exhibit, “I’ll Have What She’s Having”: The Jewish Deli...

Hello and welcome to another episode of Industry Night with me Nycci Nellis. So it’s taken me a few days to get back into the thick of things after my trip to Barcelona — I don’t usually suffer from jet lag. And my sleeping and exercising were on target but I have been loath to really go out and be about. BUT all of that is about to change cause we are rolling into May in DC and boy is there a lot to do, eat, play  - so so much. And look where I am today. My current residen...

Welcome back to another episode for Industry Night. If you are joining me on YouTube you can see I am in a new location this week. Taking a break from the Peter Chang Family Restaurants where I will be back next week in their brand new location Ni Hao. And have I mentioned yet that the month of May I’ll be recording at the Capital Jewish Museum? I am — they have a new exhibit on Deli Culture - I’ll have what she's having - and they are hosting Industry Night there for the month. AND THEN — I’ll be out at...

Hey All and thanks for  joining me again on the latest Industry Night  I’ve been traveling the last few weeks so I am excited to be back on air annnnd in my new residency. The next few weeks I’ll be hanging out in some of Peter Chang’s Restaurants. You know Peter Chang? Once coined the restless chef — because area foodies would follow him all around the region to get one of chef’s famous Sichuan dishes. This week I am starting off in Chang Chang one of Chef’s most recent openings and the very first one in DC. Peter C...

Hey all, and thanks for joining me again. Delighted to be here for my last in-person show at Tony & Joe's. I am so grateful to Greg Casten and his team here for supporting my work and hosting this show, which requires work. The team needs a space to set up, turn the music down, and allow for good light. I always need a massive amount of hot water and tea, and everyone here at Tony & Joe's is always so accommodating! Hospitality is alive and well at Tony & Joe's. As I have mentioned on every show here — once patio season starts — Tony...

Hey All and thanks for joining me again. It was patio season and no … now it isn’t This is spring in DC. One day it’s sunny and 70 and one day it’s sunny and 30. ANYWAY. The ridiculous weather aside, it doesn’t take away my excitement from taping this month’s show at Tony & Joe’s. I am down on the sparkling Potomac water, watching the boats go by. This is a so if you know you know situation. Tony and Joe’s has one of the best patios in DC with views of the Kennedy Center. As I have said, onc...

Hey All! Thanks for joining me again on Industry Night with me — Nycci Nellis. It is patio season in DC and I am so so excited because this month’s show is being tapped at Tony & Joe’s right down on the water in Georgetown. If you live in the DMV or have ever visited this city chances are you’ve been here. They have one of the best patios. It looks out on the Potomac with views of the Kennedy Center. Seriously on a gorgeous day you want to sit out on that patio with a tray of fresh shucked...

Do you recognize where I am? I have to be honest, I cannot believe I am in the space that once housed Coco Sala. For those of you who remember, Coco Sala was love letter to chocolate in a variety of forms and this space was … chocolate-ly. But if you know who took over the space here in Penn Quarter, then you know I am in the greatly anticipated and just re-opened Moon Rabbit. Less than a year ago, we were all shocked when the original Moon Rabbit suddenly closed in the Wharf’s InterContinental Hotel. David and I, and our...

Hey All and thanks for joining me again on this week’s Industry Night. So excited to spend this month at Tony & Joe’s down on the waterfront in Georgetown. If you live in the DMV or have ever visited this city chances are you’ve been here. They have one of the best patios. It looks out on the Potomac with views of the Kennedy Center. Seriously on a gorgeous day you want to sit out on that patio with a tray of fresh shucked oysters and a glass of Rose and watch the boats go by. So special thanks...

Over the years I have had the incredible pleasure of emceeing the Embassy Chef Challenge, and with that came the ability to chat with embassy chefs, ambassadors, their families, and attache’s. You may remember during the last round, I went to several of the embassies and cooked with their chefs. Oh my goodness it was so much fun, I learned so much, and it gave me the opportunity to share their histories, culture, and of course, cuisine! If you don’t know, Events DC’s Embassy Chef Challenge is a gathering of embassy chefs from around the world, showcasing the fl...

Hello there. I can not believe we are wrapping up 2023 here on Industry Night. So for the whole month of December I have been taping this show at WREN in the Watermark Hotel. Last week we were up in one of the terrific suites and today we are here in the bar of the Japanese izakaya, Wren. Chef Yo Matsuzaki draws upon locally-grown ingredients and serves Japanese street food with modern American elements. Think shucked oysters and expertly-cut sashimi and wagyu steak and you get where I am going. But I don’t need to tell you all about it! Ch...

Do you recognize where I am? I have to be honest, I cannot believe I am in the space that once housed Coco Sala. For those of you who remember, Coco Sala was love letter to chocolate in a variety of forms and this space was … chocolate-ly. But if you know who took over the space here in Penn Quarter, then you know I am in the greatly anticipated and just re-opened Moon Rabbit. Less than a year ago, we were all shocked when the original Moon Rabbit suddenly closed in the Wharf’s InterContinental Hotel. David and I, and our...

Welcome to another Industry Night. I've been taking it a little slow for the month of January. I wanted time for a little refresh. I have been so fortunate to be able to share such incredible stories from people who do the work on this show. It's really an honor. I am amazed and grateful, especially when I look over all the shows from the past year. If you listen to the show — you can also see what we are doing on YouTube — which makes it so much fun for me. Adding the YouTube component has been such a game-changer. You...

Hello again and welcome to another Industry Night. For the month of December I have had the pleasure of taping this show in WREN restaurant in the Watermark Hotel. This area is the new shiny & bright Capital One Center. An entire town center has been built up on the other side of the highway from what you traditionally think of Tysons. Joining me today is Tara McNamara the Chief Experience Officer AND she was the first person I met here at the Watermark — a little over 2+ years ago when the property opened —  and she can really talk about the hotel’s growt...

Hi there and welcome to another Industry Night. I have a new residency. For the month of December Industry Night is being hosted by WREN in the Watermark Hotel. This area is on fire! An entire town center has been built up on the other side of the highway from what you traditionally think of Tysons. Here in the Watermark Hotel is the Japanese izakaya, Wren. Chef Yo Matsuzaki draws upon locally-grown ingredients and serves Japanese street food with modern American elements. shucked oysters and expertly-cut sashimi and wagyu steak. Today I am sitting in one of the lovely suites...

New Residency at The WREN in the Watermark Hotel Hi there I have a new residency! For December, Industry Night is hosted by WREN in the Watermark Hotel. This area is on fire! An entire town center has built up on the other side of the highway from what you traditionally think of as Tysons. Here in the Watermark Hotel is the Japanese izakaya, Wren. Chef Yo Matsuzaki draws upon locally-grown ingredients and serves Japanese street food with modern American elements. Think shucked oysters and expertly-cut sashimi and wagyu steak. There's also an incredible Omakase menu, and do not get...

Look at where I am! I have had a new Residency for the month of November and today is the last day here at The Point — wah I know — it is so bright and so beautiful and the staff is so fantastic. BUT! While I am filming/recording Industry Night at a new location for the month of December (the WREN in the Capitol One Building in Tysons),  I am back with Fish & Fire in 2024! So, here I am down at Buzzards Point in the new sparkling development wedged between the Wharf and Navy Yard. The good people of Fish & Fire...

Welcome to another episode of Industry Night! So if you pay attention to my insta feed you know I have been traveling for the past month. I have had the incredible good fortune to travel through different areas of Italy - a little bit of work and a little bit of play — back to Sardinia, first time traveling to Como and being in Milan during fashion week. It was all pretty fabulous. The sites, the sounds, the conversations, the wine and the food — so I’m gonna take you on a quick tour of Northern Sardinia: -But first can we talk a...

Welcome to another Industry Night here at The Point in DC. Yes, I have been out and about last week — did you see me? Actually, you did not see me because I have been sunning my tush in lovely St. Martin. Once again, I ate through the delicious town of Grand Case, nestled on the French Side of Saint Martin. And yes, Caribbean spiny lobster was consumed daily, but you know I have a voracious appetite: -First Night lobster and ribs at the lolos aka the shacks. Our favorite, Cynthia's Talk of the Town -Picked up warm croissants, savory & sweet, ev...

Look where I am! I'm down at Buzzards Point the new sparkling development wedged between the Wharf and Navy Yard — this is The Point DC. For the month of November the good people of Fish & Fire Group aka Greg Casten are hosting Industry Night in their pretty fabulous property. And I am grateful and excited! So if you don't know the Point is Winner of the Restaurant Development & Design Magazine Award for "Best Restaurant Design," The Point has a glorious outdoor patio ideally situated where the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers join — talk about picturesque and panoramic views. Yes, I have been...

Look where I am! I have a new Residency! I’m down at Buzzards Point, the new sparkling development wedged between the Wharf and Navy Yard  — this is The Point DC. For the next month the good people of Fish & Fire Group aka Greg Casten are hosting Industry Night in their pretty fabulous property. And I am grateful and excited! So if you don’t know the Point is Winner of the Restaurant Development & Design Magazine Award for “Best Restaurant Design,” The Point has a glorious outdoor patio perfectly situated at where the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers join — talk about picturesque a...

So I literally just got back from a few days in NYC. IF you follow me on insta I know you know but I am totally going to share this here. I was so excited to be invited up for the big Michelin Party. So here is the skinny. Most years each city has it’s own party to celebrate the announcement of who kept their stars and who is added. In DC it has been at the French Ambassadors residence every year since DC got their stars. And I gotta say I loved that party - But this year th...

I have a new Residency! I'm down at Buzzards Point, the new sparkling development wedged between the Wharf and Navy Yard — this is The Point DC. For the next month, the good people of Fish & Fire Group, aka Greg Casten, are hosting Industry Night in their pretty fabulous property. And I am grateful and excited! So, if you don't know, the Point is the Winner of the Restaurant Development & Design Magazine Award for "Best Restaurant Design," The Point has a glorious outdoor patio ideally situated where the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers join — talk about picturesque and panoramic views. But just beca...

Many Italians and Italophiles kind of disregard Milan. Because unlike Florence, Rome, Venice, Assissi, etc, it's a newer city. The city is not filled with architectural and artistic artifacts. The city is modern. And I am here to tell you that it is just fabulous. We happened to be there a little less than a week before Milan fashion week so the city was just buzzy with tall, leggy creatures running all over the city to casting calls. Gucci took over the city — especially the Brera District — more about that in a minute. We stayed at the Chateau Monfort (another Rela...

Welcome back to another Industry Night with Nycci Nellis. Still taking you on my travels through Italy! The sites, the sounds, the conversations, the wine and the food — so I’m gonna take you on a quick tour of Como: -Stayed just outside Bellagio in the town of Lezzeno in the new hotel, Filario -Spent the morning walking the streets of Cernobbio, shmying around the gorgeous grounds of The Villa D’Esta. Followed by a 3 hour lunch on the terrace restaurant. It was like being in a movie! -Gluttons that we are we went to the Michelin-starred Mistral that evening in the...

In this episode, we'll be diving into the world of culinary innovation, indigenous knowledge, and the fascinating interplay between food, culture, and the environment. Our featured guest is Sean Sherman, co-founder of the nonprofit North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems and its Indigenous Food Labs. Sean, a renowned chef and author, boasts multiple James Beard Awards and was recently named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people of 2023. Discover Sean's pivotal work in championing indigenous foods and the profound link between indigenous peoples and the natural world. We're also joined by Paula Johnson, the curator of food history at the...

On the last Industry Night … So if you pay attention to my insta feed you know I have been out an about. And it has been a few weeks of incredible eats but I want to tell you about some new restaurants that are opening up … -LITTLE BLACK BIRD Ashok Bajaj will be opening a new wine bar Little Black Bird, in the space formerly home to the original Bindaas in the Cleavland Park neighborhood next month. Executive Chef Ryan Moore will oversee the wine bar menu for Little Black Bird and feature 100 wines on the wine list. -EL PRESIDENTE Step...

On the next Industry Night … So I know I have mentioned being at the James Beards awards quite a few times but I’m gonna mention it again because it pertains to one of today’s guests. Yes, I am a believer in the James Beard Mission, reason 1 why I was there. And yes I got the gig of a lifetime being hired by Hilton to be their ambassador on the red carpet — interviewing all the amazing people in the culinary world — like JBAward winner, Rob Rubba. Now Rob & I go way back. In fact he was on Foodie and the Beast...

Before we get into this week’s Industry Night, I want to remind all of you out there that Chef’s For Equality is back - YEA! - and this year the 7-ring circus of an event is back after a pandemic hiatus. If you are unaware - Let me catch you up: -This year at the National Building Museum, 13 “chef tables”  that run from 12k-40k -50 stations of best restaurants in the area -Champagne/Caviar VIP lounger — 4KG’s of caviar people! -Drag Brunch speed diner -And the Cakes! -Oh and Queerlada -Chef For Equality.org Ok —You have been infor...

Ready for the next Industry Night? I am! So if you pay attention to my insta feed you know I have been out an about. And it has been a week or so of incredible eats. So let’s get to it: Perry’s in Adam’s Morgan. This restaurant is one of the OG’s of the DC Dining scene and the very first to host drag bunches. Known for their sushi and their rooftop — Perry’s has always been in rotation. But Now … Masako Morishita is the chef and she is making all the things so yummy. So yes — you can...

Another Chanel Worth Knowing On the last Industry Night … So I haven’t seen today’s guest in a bit but we do go way back. Years ago on F&TB Chanel Turner came on to talk about Fou-Dre Vodka — she was just 25 and at the time was the youngest black woman to own and operate her own spirit company. She was a FORCE. And here’s the thing about Chanel — she has not slowed down. She then created Global Alliance Distribution - the leading boutique distributor for Craft, Artisanal Wine and Spirit brands in the D.C Metropolitan area. And then bec...

On this week’s Industry Night: Back in June I was fortunate enough to be at the James Beard Awards in Chicago. I am sure those of you who tune in regularly are like — no duh Nycci, we know! Well you are going to hear about it again, but for a totally different reason. Yes, I am a believer in the James Beard Mission, reason 1 why I was there. And yes I got the gig of a lifetime being hired by Hilton to be their ambassador on the red carpet — interviewing all the amazing people in the culinary world — like last wee...

On this week’s Industry Night! So if you pay attention to my insta feed - @‌NycciNellis -  you know I have been out and about. And it has been a few weeks of incredible eats I am thinking of naming this part of the show — Nycci Knows, or Where is Nycci — think on it and give me your thoughts: -Cafe Teresa — Chef Ruben Garcia "popped up" at Elli Benchimol's little gem, Apero, and took us on a gastronomic tour of Valencia through tastes of his forthcoming Casa Teresa —> opening soon in the highly-anticipated food hall, The Square in downtown DC. Some of t...

So much to chew on in this episode of Industry Night. First! I’ve been eating: The people of DC love to brunch. LOVE IT and the people at the Gaylord are here to feed that beast! In the newly renovated and relaunched Old Hickory, they are now doing a baller brunch, 3- courses — to me it is a little bit too much — but based on the reactions of the other diners I was in the minority. The first course is served on a massive board with hot out of the oven pastries, granola and yogurt, a selection of local cheese...

So if you pay attention to my insta feed you know I have been out and about. And it has been a few weeks of incredible eats I am thinking of naming this part of the show — Nycci Knows, or Where is Nycci — think on it and give me your thoughts: the RAMMYS! Yes, that was me up on stage with NBC 4’s Shawn Yancy as we got to give out several awards to the very deserving nominees - I always tear up because these awards mean so much to so many. I am grateful that I get asked to be a p...

June has been a busy month and it’s good to be back in the WineLair, with an amazing camera crew (Hi Ata!) and with an incredible group of guests. But first, where have I been and what have I been doing? -Well, I was at the James Beard Awards in Chicago -I cheered all the winners and the gorgeous Pati Jinich at the Media Awards -Stayed in a fabulous suite at the Waldorf Astoria -Partied with Karaoke king Danny Lee at Perilla (a fundraiser for the Asian American Foundation) -Dinner at the recently opened Asador Bastian -So many cocktails by...

Welcome back to Industry Night with me Nycci Nellis. Per usual, I have been out and about and it’s been delish! Omakase at Cafe Unido — Brewmaster Francisco Flores took us on an educational tasting tour of the Panama Geisha bean and I now know why the coffee-connoisseurs are obsessed. There’s a reason that Zepplin’s is a neighborhood fave for sushi. It’s delicious! The Wilder brothers (who were recently on this show) opened up the spot a few years ago because they wanted really good sushi in their Shaw neighborhood — Mission Accomplished — and with Corey LeDroit behind the bar you kn...

Many of you may remember the recession of 2008 — I do! — it was a heavy crush for a lot of people. Maybe one of the few silver linings that came out of it was people looking at what they did for a living and saying — Screw it! — I am going to do what I love. Makers, craft artisans — whatever you want to call it — these people had passion projects that they wanted to bring to fruition — enter Union Kitchen in 2012. The DC area’s first business incubator, now an accelerator and an investment fund with area markets and…  and…  and… So many shifts, pivots and...

I met the Wilder Brothers — Ari & Micah — a long … long … time ago. I think I met Ari first when he was behind the bar at Zola? This was just as I was getting into the biz (sigh, Zola!). Ari & Micah Wilder were, and continue to be, a part of the cocktail renaissance here in DC. They made their names known thanks to their commitment to the products they were creating whether in the glass they served you or in their own mixers that they bottled and sold. So ahead of the game! You can find Ari & Micah behind some of the best...

If you pay attention to my insta feed you know I have been out an about. And, per usual, it has been a week of incredible eats: -Love Makato: Last time I told you about the BBQ. Today it's about the Izakaya. -Queen English: Hong Kong cuisine here in DC. Loving the young bamboo shoots, drunken noodles and that whole fried snapper. -Villa Yara: new in Georgetown. Lebanese wines in a beautiful setting. Now on to today’s show: Many of you know that I am so fortunate to have this incredible relationship with The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington aka...

I love having a guest that I adore on Industry Night. Today’s guest, Julia Coney and I go quite a way back. The first time we met I was at a discussion/luncheon on Champagne and Julia walked into the room. And let me tell you when Julia walks into the room — you know it. There’s an incredible energy radiating from her. It’s so attractive that everyone wants to get to know her — me included! Other than being this incredible light she also happens to be an unbelievably talented wine educator, journalist and speaker! But that’s not all - th...

In the beginning of every show I talk about where I have been and what I have been eating. No shortage of delicious travels this week: Stopped in the beautiful little gem, Kappo by Chef Minoru Ogawa and his partners Ari Wilder and Adrian Williams. We were taken on an 8-course feast and lucky us, we were happily in chef's capable hands. Love love love hiking up Lost Mountain in Sky Meadows Park in Fauquier County Luxe lunching at Patrick O’Connell’s Patty O’s A night at the Shakesphere Theatre for the powerful new producton, Here There Are Blue B...

I love this show — because I just love today’s guest. Fellow New Jersey native, Michael Friedman has been a mainstay of DC dining for more than a decade. He radiates so much positivity and joy — and all of that comes through his cooking and the restaurants that he owns and opens. A CIA grad, Chef Mikey is behind Red Hen, not one but two All Purposes and the forth coming — and I cannot wait – Aventino in Bethesda. We go through it all: His growing up on Jersey pizza by the slice, the epiphany after college of working in a restaurant...

Welcome to another Industry Night with Nycci Nellis. If you follow me on Insta - and you should @‌nyccinellis - you know I have been out and about. And it has been a week of incredible eats: -The Napa Valley Vintners were in town pouring their incredible wines all over town. And I wasn’t just at one event, I was at two! First, 25+ winemakers poured at the Duck & the Peach - side note - I did record a show there with several of them — and then I was invited to the Smithsonian for an incredible evening honoring the winemakers - Napa...

Welcome to another delicious show of Industry Night with me, Nycci Nellis. So excited to share today's show because we are talking wine and not just any wine ... Napa Valley Wine. Those of you who have been tuning in over the last 7 years know that every now and again I have the absolute pleasure of talking to the wine makers & experts of the Napa Valley region. Pre-Covid a whole cluster of them would come in to pour for the industry, and the public and then get their faces up on Capitol Hill to talk to our government about their environmental...

I always start an episode of Industry Night with what I’ve been eating and where I’ve been drinking and you know, this week I have been consuming mass quantities: Grazie Nonna — Casey Patton’s latest red sauce Italian HOT spot. Order: Tangy and bright Caesar, spicy meaty pizza & the spinach bucatini with whipped ricotta Back at Petite Cerise — Jeremiah Langhorn’s French brasserie serves all the traditions. Order: Manifest Bread (slather with the Bernaise mousse that comes with the asparagus) and the Croque Madame (ham, bechemel, think slices of bread dipped and fried and topped with an egg) Lutece — Che...

Welcome to another episode with I, Nycci Nellis, your host. Join David and I as we chat with Cory Van Horn, Chief Strategy Officer of Visit Montgomery, Maryland, about exciting programs aimed at engaging with locals and visitors alike in the MoCo region. We'll dive into the creative process behind thoughtful activations like the MoCo Eats program, which highlights local eateries, and the new Tastemaker Trail featuring craft beverage producers in Montgomery County. Plus, we'll explore the region's dedication to Agritourism with special guests Kelly Groff, President & CEO of Visit Montgomery, Tommy Evans, Owner & Cidermaker of Two Story Chimney Ciderworks...

I love having good friends on the show. It just allows for a wholly different vibe. Now just because Chris Floyd is a friend doesn’t mean we don’t have a whole lot to talk about! Every Industry Night show, I end by reminding everyone to take their kindness pills because issue in the restaurant industry have not abated and labor shortages are a real thing. Who better to go down that rabbit hole with than one of the most sought after recruiters in the DC  hospitality industry - Capitol Restaurant Resource’s Chris Floyd. Quotes "Running a successful restaur...

Access to healthy, nutritious food is not a given for so many. A lot of food availability issues have to do with both farming and farming practices in this country. I’m really excited to talk with Colin O’Neil, who is Director of Public Policy & Social Impact at Bowery Farming. Bowery is on a mission to reimagine farming from the ground up and is the largest vertical farming company in the United States. In Colin’s role at Bowery he is driving the social impact and sustainability initiatives as well as increasing awareness of the benefits of controlled environment agricu...

I thought I had first met Chef Nick Stefanelli when he opened up Bibiana with Ashok Bajaj back in the day, but he corrected me! We met earlier when he was with Fabio Trabocchi at the award-winning but long-gone Maestro. Anyway, back when I thought we met, Nick was rocking one of the hottest Italian restaurants in town and then he went out on his own. Took a leap opening up the unmatched Masseria in the then barely known Union Market District — it was not called that then —- Masseria was a sexy & sophisicated oasis in the center of an indu...

Amy Riolo! The award-winning, best-selling author of 13 books, a chef, a television personality, an educator AND Amy is one of the world’s foremost authorities on the culinary culture of Italy. I can’t even remember when we met, but what I do remember was being fascinated by her story and her incredible wealth of knowledge. Amy has joined David and I on Foodie & The Beast too many times to count, and in January we had her on to talk about her new line of regional Italian products - which were delicious! I just needed more time with Amy than the...

Over the summer I had the good fortune to be a part of an amazing group of food, wine & hospitality leaders who were tasked with opening our minds and baring our souls - personally & professionally - on a 24/7 non-stop/action-packed journey to Israel, aka Reality Israel. I learned so much about the complexities of the region and the importance of food culture. I walked away with more questions than answers and I was also given the incredible gift of family. Waxing poetic about the trip aside — it would have never had been the kind of experience without the incredible leadership of...

As the listeners of this show you know , I am an eater! And, I get asked a lot about how I balance my profession of eating while staying in good physical shape — and honestly mental shape as well. Long story, but I have been accused publicly that it was not possible for me to eat the way I claimed because of my size. Which was really inappropriate and honestly wrong. I am not going to pretend that having a good relationship with food is easy — it isn’t. But I am a big believer in the pleasure of food which brings...

This is a total blast from the past for me. I met Matthew Carroll so so long ago — it’s making me age just thinking about it. I believe we met when he was the sommelier at 2941. Matt was a well-known sommelier at the storied Inn at Little Washington before 2941 and he moved a bit around the DC Market and then poof — he disappeared. He’s now with Skurnik Wines & Spirits, a true family business that has been around since the mid-1980’s. Now not only are Matt and I going to catch up and learn more about his wine journey th...

Back in the Fall I was blessed with being asked to interview famed author and story teller, Michael Twitty on the main stage at the Capital Jewish Museum Festival. I did an Industry Night about it as well — please see past episodes — and while I was chatting with Michael I met LaNitra Berger. LaNitra is an Associate Professor of History and Art History and a Director of African and African American Studies at George Mason University and she told be that she and Lauren Strauss who is a Senior Professorial Lecturer (History Department and Jewish Studies Program) and Director of Unde...

There is something about this time of year isn’t there. We are all a little off. It’s hard to get our mojo going after all the holiday insanity and here on the East Coast the weather is so dreary — I don’t know about you but I am really trying to build time into my days that allow me to focus on my goals for the new year — personally and professionally — and its hard. It’s hard to be honest with yourself and do the work. That’s why I am so excited to dive in deep today with J J DiGeron...