Driftaway Coffee & The Libi Project kicked off a new monthly conversation series exploring the real journey of building a brick & mortar food business - featuring local NYC founders and created to connect and support those opening (or dreaming of opening) food and beverage spaces.

It was an evening of honest dialogue, shared challenges, and a whole lot of insight from those who have been through it all.

@jeremycooks of @agiscounter & @pitts_bk , @banhbylauren, @erictheawkwardscone of @ursula_brooklyn, and moderator @numenon of @driftawaycoffee joined us on the panel and shared their personal experiences and the the honest realities of launching food businesses in NYC, from funding and burnout to the importance of community.

Was a great reminder to laugh through the hard stuff when you can, and to lean on the people walking the path with you.

Treats from @_therisingrose_ & @banhbylauren