This Is TASTE 631: Lei Is an Exciting, Singular Chinese Wine Bar in NYC with Annie Shi
Jul 28, 2025
Annie Shi, co-owner of Lei, a unique Chinese wine bar in Manhattan, shares her journey from finance to hospitality. She discusses innovative wine pairings with traditional Chinese dishes and the emotional significance behind Lei's name. Austin Hennelly, bar director at Kato, dives into the evolving non-alcoholic cocktail scene and the creativity required to craft flavorful alternatives. Their conversation highlights the fusion of cultural cuisine with modern dining experiences and the personal connections formed in the world of hospitality.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Hospitality Anecdote
- Annie Shi reminisces about playing 'butler' with her sister, serving drinks and making snacks for her friend's playtime.
- This playful caregiving sparked her early love for hospitality and making others happy.
Chinese Food-Wine Pairing Insight
- Chinese cuisine's vast regional diversity offers natural pairings with wine beyond commonly known spicy dishes.
- Respecting Chinatown’s culinary tradition, Lei offers complementary styles focused on gentler, regionally authentic flavors.
Finding Lei's Perfect Home
- Annie searched two years for the perfect Lei location and felt an intuitive connection entering 15 Doyers Street.
- She signed the lease days before giving birth, trusting her gut despite the timing’s challenges.
