Starting as a finicky eater and a boy of routine, Danny Mena’s mathematical mind transformed in his college years. The once deeply analytical mind evolved into the world food. Supper clubs, and many flavor combinations later, Danny paired his business acumen and his kitchen experience to launch a successful restauranteur career. This deep passion of Mexico and flavor inevitably drove him into the beautiful world of Mezcal. We chat music, flavor, inspiration, and Mezcal.
-
-
Ep 272 – Jason Paul Cox: Using All of Your Senses
The world of agave is constantly changing and without the efforts of Jason Paul Cox, this narrative wouldn’t be moving forward as boldly. After years of translating Spanish to English for those in need, a combination of emotionally gravity and worldly compassion changed Jason’s trajectory completely. A risky foray into food brought him to open the lauded Oaxacan culinary landmark El Destilado. The heavy focus on agave of the region naturally transitioned into the creation of Cinco Sentidos destilados de agaves. We chat empathy, entrepreneurialism, Puebla, and more.
-
Ep 264 – Lynnette Marrero: Fighting the Good Fight
Lynnette Marrero has earned entry into the esteemed Tales of the Cocktail’s “Hall of Dames”; a loving moniker dedicated to the work of great women in the hospitality industry. Her interest in the human condition, art, music, and helping others has resulted in some of the best collaborations the hospitality industry has seen. For many women, the ability to compete in Speed Rack, one of Lynnette’s many project, is enlightening and introspective. Further, as an educator, Lynnette’s work unearths what might be otherwise the lost history of powerful women breaking boundaries in hospitality. What’s next? And where can we take inclusivity? We chat the 20’s, singing, Puerto Rico, and more.
-
Ep 257 – The Story of Nickel City
The dynamic duo of Travis Tober and Brandon Hunt have created the modern legend of a bar Nickel City. At first apprehensive of one another, the 2 forged a long lasting relationship over a few Old Fashioned’s. Nickel City is the apex of hospitality and accessibility in the cocktail movement. With inexpensive food, rare whiskey, and an unparalleled staff, the Austin staple has quickly become one of the most lauded bars in the United States. But the only way to truly understand Nickel City is to sip a dram and enjoy a burger. Thanks to Travis and Brandon a monument to community thrives in East Austin.
