FOODIE & THE BEAST: DECEMBER 14, 2025

The holidays are officially in full swing and so was the studio.  This week we’re leaning hard into the season with a spirited lineup of guests bringing cocktails — lots, culture, pop-ups, performances, and plenty of reasons to get out and celebrate across the DMV. Holiday bars, Shakespeare, elves, and Hanukkah happenings, this one truly has something for everyone:

– Monica Evans, Beverage Director, Coquito Bar

A tropical holiday escape right here in D.C., Coquito Bar is lighting up La Cosecha in Union Market as a festive cocktail oasis. Monica is behind the bar magic, sharing tastes and tales of coquito classics and creative spins that make this pop-up a must-sip destination all season long.

– Joy Johnson, Director of Visitor Experience, Folger Shakespeare Library

Joy brings the scoop on the Folger’s holiday glow-up, from the 2nd Annual Folger Frost Fair and seasonal concerts to Afternoon Tea and so much more. If you’re looking to mix culture, coziness, and a little Shakespearean sparkle into your holidays, she’s got you covered.

– Sarah Vitek (aka Sarah the Elf)

Born at the North Pole (obviously), Sarah trained as a proper elf—cold weather, sugar consumption, bobsledding, narwhal whale training—the usual. Then she discovered nightlife and never looked back. Now a standout bartender with the Lights Festival, she’s bringing serious cocktail chops and holiday spirit to every show, every night.

– Josh Saltzman, Co-Owner, Juneberry Garage & Ivy and Coney

Because not everyone celebrates Christmas and that deserves equal billing. Josh is here with all the details on Chai-vy and Cohen-y, Ivy and Coney’s beloved 9th Annual Hanukkah pop-up bar. Festive, full of latkes, lights, and libations, he’s got the full rundown (mishpocha or not).

– Elena Johnson, DC & Maryland Market Lead, The Macallan

Elena joins us with news of The Snug, The Macallan’s intimate new whisky lounge tucked inside the Ritz-Carlton, DC. Cozy and perfect for the season, this is one holiday hideaway worth discovering—neat, with a splash, or however you like it.

Cheers to celebrating all the holidays on Foodie & The Beast. Every Sunday at 11AM on 1500am. Listen to the full episode here.