I DRINK ON THE JOB - THE BLOG

Archive for June, 2014

Taste Talks Come to DC

June 20th, 2014 • No Comments

June 17th, 2014 – Enjoyed a fun evening with a group that is promoting Food Entrepreneurship throughout the U.S. – Spoon University. Taste Talks came to DC after a successful visit to New York, but they were totally shocked by the large crowd that came out – my estimate is close to 200 people, but whatever the number, it was pretty packed! Food Samples from various local vendors/restaurants including Luke’s Lobster and Founding Farmer (see list below) and actually 2 Panel Discussions (speakers below) made it an interesting event. I would say that most of the audience were Millenials – many still in college – but that is primarily Spoon University’s audience. Food businesses, like food trucks, are the kinda hip “thing” for 20-somethings looking for direction in their life.

And what did I learn? Nothing seriously new – food businesses tend to be passion businesses – margins normally are slim and hours are long – and hard work separates those who succeed from those who fail – but what I found the most interesting is the high interest level in a city like Washington, D.C. which frankly has quite a few jobs available with decent pay – why would someone just out of college want such a tough career, when most likely they could take a pretty cushy desk job at 50% higher pay? I think many younger people are looking to feel good about themselves – not just a Big Paycheck – and food businesses seem to satisfy the need for adventure, a little risk-taking, and maybe a sense of belonging/community.

Here are some photos from the event via Facebook: TasteDC Calendar of Food and Drink Events.

Tuesday, June 17 from 6:30 to 8:30pm

On the heels of our wildly successful Taste Talks NYC event, we’re once again partnering with our friends at General Assembly to cover all things food and entrepreneurship. Join us on June 17 to nosh on delicious free food, hear from professionals and die-hard foodies in the DC culinary scene and network with speakers and attendees. Register for the event here, or use the ticketing buttons below.

GA_primary_horiz (2) copy

When: Tuesday, June 17 from 6:30 to 8:30pm
Where: 1776, 1133 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005

Speakers include:
Luke Holden, founder of Luke’s Lobster
Susan Able, editor-in-chief and publisher of Edible DC
Jennifer Motruk, VP marketing for Founding Farmers
Jonas Singer, founder of Union Kitchen and Blind Dog Cafe
Chris Vigilante, founder of Vigilante Coffee
Greg Menna, partner, District Doughnut
Summer Whitford, founder of The Food & Wine Diva
Jimmy Edgerton, 2Armadillos

Come hungry to feast on:
District Doughnut
Vigilante Coffee
Thunder Beast Root Beer
sweetgreen salad
Luke’s Lobster bites
Founding Farmers grub
Blind Dog Cafe chocolate chip cookies
Capitol Kombucha drinks
Baba’s Pickles
& more!

TasteTalks