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 their ever-growing culinary empire.

But first, I kick things off with the a.kitchen+bar team. Big thanks to Ellen Yin and crew for hosting us. Ellen, as many of you know, is a James Beard Foundation Outstanding Restaurateur and a powerhouse in the industry.

I catch up with Ellen and Diana Kendrick about what’s happening her at a.kitchen+bar, including a BBQ series that’s bringing top chefs, and a whole lot of heat.

To all my Industry Night listeners, thank you. Whether you’re tuning in on your favorite podcast platform or watching on YouTube, I’m so grateful for your support.

Be sure to subscribe, never miss a morsel, and I’ll see you next time on Industry Night!

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
00:14 - Cocktail Innovators and Culinary Stories
03:34 - "Embracing D.C.'s Vibrant Dining Scene"
09:15 - Reunion with Restaurateurs Chad & Glendon
12:40 - Bartender's Cross-Country Journey
16:04 - Journey to Fashion and Cocktail Renaissance
18:16 - DC Cocktail Scene Foundations
20:18 - Bartender Competitions as Performance
23:36 - "Prioritizing Hospitality Over Cocktails"
28:16 - Dan Simons' Hospitality Business Vision
32:12 - Memorable Restaurant Experience
34:57 - Discovering Pisco Through Culture and Mentorship
38:00 - From Bartending to Hospitality Management
41:59 - Evolving Restaurant Culture Training
44:37 - Bartender Exchange and Learning
48:58 - Essence of Hospitality: Show Care
49:34 - Innovative Drink Inspirations in Madrid
52:07 - Outro

Quotes:

"It's about the experience, not just the product. Service defines us."- Chad Spangler

"A rising tide lifts all boats. We share our knowledge to elevate the community."- Glendon Hartley

"Natural wines are sustainable, supporting small businesses and diverse families worldwide—a connection for us and our guests."- Ellen Yin

"Supporting our community and the hospitality industry is vital because hospitalitarians drive positive changes."- Diana Kendrick

"I love helping others find their path. Like attracts like, fueling our thriving community."- Nycci Nellis

Key Takeaways:

From Humble Beginnings to National Acclaim
The Power of Community and Collaboration
Revolutionizing Cocktail Culture in DC
The Art (and Heart) of Hospitality
Learning Never Stops
Changing What a ‘Bar’ Means
Mentorship & Leadership Matter
Bringing the World Home

Connect with Glendon HartleyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocktailery_tomfoolery/?hl=en
Website: https://www.servicebardc.com/

Connect with Chad Spangler:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chadspangler11/?hl=en
Website: https://www.servicebardc.com/

Connect with Ellen Yin:
Website: https://highsthospitality.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZ2RYQhXuDkzdwXYUgDuD6oz2AgvfJ38jQlz0N7mhvo8OR4Z06g3RR1TGY_aem_TY_1QGVZ1dJlBLmshmH5OA
Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealellenyin?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.kitchenandbardc/

Connect with Diana Kendrick:
Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maitreddk/
Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.kitchenandbardc/

Featuring Nycci Nellis
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nyccinellis/
Website: https://www.thelistareyouonit.com/

Produced by Heartcast Media
http://www.heartcastmedia.com