Foodie and the Beast - April 19, 2026

An all-star show this weekend. This lineups that reminds you just how deep the talent runs in and around DC right now.

-We kicked things off with a quick call-in from area food writer and author Nevin Martell, giving us the inside scoop on Mess Hall’s annual New Kitchens on the Block, aka NKOTB. It’s one of the most exciting launchpads for emerging concepts in the region, and if you want a preview of what’s next in DC dining, this is where you go.

-Straight from New Orleans to Washington, Ralph Brennan joined us to talk about a milestone moment: the 80th anniversary of the legendary Brennan’s. The birthplace of Bananas Foster and home to one of the most iconic breakfasts in America. To celebrate, Ralph has taken “Breakfast at Brennan’s” on the road, landing this weekend at Occidental for a special three-day collaboration.

-Ryan Ratino and Will Patton of Hive Hospitality, you know, Bresca, Jônt, and Press Club are already setting the bar (high), they’re now adding Ox & Olive in Georgetown, a fresh, modern take on the American steakhouse.

-You’ve seen him on TV competing in America’s Culinary Cup and now he’s in our studio. Chris Morgan, chef/owner of Joon, continues to bring thoughtful Persian cuisine to the region. Chris joined us with plenty to talk about, from competition cooking to staying grounded in tradition.

-And in our drinks segment, we took a deeper dive into tea with Cody Yu, co-founder of Seven Teahouse. These are not your everyday teas, Cody sources directly from China, working closely with the families and farmers producing some of the world’s best teas. He’s not just curating a product, he’s preserving tradition and bringing a level of expertise that you can taste in every cup.

We packed a lot into an hour. Tune in to Foodie And The Beast