Kick back with Brian and Scott as they celebrate Scott’s birthday week, craft unique cocktails, and explore the rich traditions of the Kentucky Derby. Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast, a horse racing novice, or just love good company, this episode offers a lively mix of storytelling, drink recipes, and race-day planning.

Main topics:

• Creative cocktails and the art of stirring vs. shaking
• The tradition and history of the Kentucky Derby
• Favorite race-day foods and hosting tips
• Unique ways to incorporate fun scales like mintness or Spiced Schofield ratings
• Insights on horse racing, betting fun, and Derby party traditions

Key insights:

• Scott shows off his espresso old fashioned recipe, emphasizing stirred over shaken
• A tongue-in-cheek "mint scosity" scale is proposed during Derby preparations
• The long history of the Kentucky Derby as the oldest consecutive annual sporting event in the U.S.
• The debate over infield vs grandstand Derby experiences
• Favorite Derby-inspired foods like ham biscuits and pizza on the grill
• The significance of dress-up contests and themed parties for Derby celebrations
• The fun of watching obscure horse races worldwide, from dolphins to chariots
• Tips on tracking down sushi grade fish at Costco and making homemade sushi
• Imaginary album club idea inspired by Derby week with Kentucky-based artist Sturgill Simpson
• Lighthearted commentary about horse betting, scratch horses, and unexpected Derby surprises

In this episode, special guest Christian Puccio shares the remarkable journey of building a culinary empire rooted in community, craftsmanship, and a passion for quality. Discover the secrets behind his restaurant's rapid success, the art of menu-tinkering, and how staying true to your vision can lead to becoming a local legend.

Key topics:

• Christian’s 24-year journey from opening delis to high-volume restaurants in DC
• The story behind the creation of Oak and Ember in Loudoun County
• Challenges and strategies during the 45-day restaurant turnaround
• The importance of local ingredients, farm partnerships, and menu flexibility
• Building a vibrant restaurant culture and lasting relationships
• Behind-the-scenes of crafting a seamless guest experience
• Curating a cocktail menu that reflects personality and creativity
• Notable whiskey experiences including barrel picks at Wild Turkey and Makers Mark
• The role of timing, location, and community support in restaurant success
• Tips on menu management, seasonal updates, and handling supply chain uncertainties
• Christian’s favorite customer stories and industry insights
• Speed round: favorite cocktail ingredient, home recipes, and walk-up songs

http://oakandemberr.com

http://instagram.com/oakandemberr

## About Christian Puccio

Christian Puccio is not just a restaurant owner; he's a community builder. With over 24 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he has honed his skills from running delis to managing high-volume restaurants in Washington D.C. His journey has been marked by a commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, which is evident in his latest venture, Oak and Ember.

Get ready for a lively chat about travel adventures, family vacations, favorite drinks, and the joys (and chaos) of parenting. Brian and Scott share personal stories, travel tips, and reminisces that’ll inspire your next trip or family activity.

Key topics:

• Unique spring-themed cocktails: "A Tree Onta" and cherry-forward Old Forester drink
• Inside look at family vacations — cruises, resorts, and kid-friendly activities
• Travel planning tips, including points hacking and budget-friendly strategies
• Memorable travel experiences: space launches, music festivals, and road trips
• Parenting on the go: managing luggage, kids' activities, and airport hacks
• Reflections on current music festivals and how tastes have evolved over the years
• Friendly banter and personal anecdotes about family, sports, and life