New and Improved Industry Night with Nycci Nellis

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 kids, the whole family loved the beautiful and delicious take on Vietnamese cuisine that Kevin Tien, Susan Bae and team were serving. We were heart broken and we were not alone.

And here we are! And I am not alone — because I have the team with me now!

Chef Kevin Tien
Pastry Chef Susan Bae
Chef Judy Beltrano
Bar Director Thi Nguyen

And oh we are going to get into all the things But First

So you know, I have been out and about —

-Beloved BBQ
-Cut
-Fairfax City Restaurant Week — I am your Restaurant Week Lady
-Mama Changs & The Wine Hour
-James Beard Long List aka Semi-Finalists alert!
-Centrolina
-Pastis - What is New in The Neighborhood
-Duck & The Peach

So I first met four-time James Beard Foundation semifinalist, 2023 RAMW Chef of the Year, Food and Wine Best New Chef 2018 Chef Kevin Tien when he was in the kitchen at Hitmitsu. But it wasn’t until he started coming into in the Foodie And The Beast studio that I really got to know him, his heart and his passion better. Pastry Chef Susan Bae joined him a few times and now I totally have a girl crush on her. Chef Judy Beltrano & Speed Rack finalist Bar Director Thi Nguyen round out his team here and I am so excited for them and this beautiful space, for me — because the Moon Rabbit is back.

Quotes

"In restaurants, we go beyond transactions and meals. We warmly welcome you into our home, embracing the true essence of hospitality."- Kevin Tien

"Through the fusion of our Southeast Asian roots, we craft a harmonious culinary experience that fulfills our creative vision."- Judy Beltrano

"We deconstructed and injected them with our unique spirit, transforming them into bittersweet beverages that tantalize and awaken the palate."- Thi Nguyen

"In pastry, balance is key. Adding a touch of saltiness is essential to create a well-rounded dessert." - Susan Bae

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction

00:40 - DC Media Personality and Host of a Food Show

04:26 - Mama Chang's: A Must-Visit for Delicious Food

07:09 - Speed Rack Finalist and Exciting New Flavors

11:20 - Exploring the Evolution of Your Unique Cooking Journey

13:56 - Overcoming Loss and Rediscovering Motivation

18:49 - Crafting Complex and Layered Dishes, Similar to Art

21:19 - Refreshing Skills After College and Achieving Success

24:59 - From Passion for Cocktails to Pursuing Bartending

27:54 - Transitioning from Marketing to Healthcare Career

29:26 - Transforming Perceptions of Asian Food and Elevating Cuisine

34:09 - Exploring Hot Pot, Fish Meatballs, Collard Greens, and Ice Cream

35:43 - The Delightful Contrast of Flaky and Bouncy Textures

41:24 - Anticipation for Instagram-Worthy Desserts and Cocktails

44:23 - Fresh Herbs, Dipping Sauces, and Unique Drinks

46:40 - The Significance of Personal Connection and Appreciation in Hospitality

50:36 - Outro

Guests Social Media Links:
Instagram:
Moon Rabbit: ** **https://www.instagram.com/moonrabbitdc?igsh=MTJkbm83dHF2dzZmcQ==

Kevin Tien: https://www.instagram.com/chefkevintien?igsh=ZmFmbm1mNmJ1MXo=

Susan Bae: ** **https://www.instagram.com/susanbae?igsh=dndvejFkbm1hOGZo

Judy Beltrano:

https://www.instagram.com/genuinely_me.judy?igsh=MXg1NnhpazVtaTAwNQ==
Website: https://www.exploretock.com/moonrabbitbykevintien/

Featuring Nycci Nellis

https://www.instagram.com/nyccinellis/

https://www.thelistareyouonit.com/

Produced by Heartcast Media

http://www.heartcastmedia.com