Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a chef and a mixologist start finishing each other’s…flavors?Proof & Pairing happens, cocktail-first creations, wild creativity, and the most joyful culinary chaos you’ve ever heard.In this episode of Ducking Realitea, I sit down with Todd and Chef Lamont of Proof & Pairing, a Bay Area-based cocktail-first food pairing experience that flips traditional food and drink pairings on their head. Instead of pairing cocktails with food, they build food around the drink, creating bold, creative flavor combinations rooted in mixology, culinary technique, and pure experimentation.We get into their origin story in the Oakland hospitality scene, their work across private events, catering, and craft cocktails, and how their collaboration grew from industry connections into a full experience brand. From virtual cooking and cocktail classes during quarantine to high-end yacht parties and interactive tasting events, they’ve built something that blends fine dining, bartender culture, and experiential hospitality.We also talk mixology vs. bartending, cocktail pairing vs. wine pairing, the rise of mocktails and non-alcoholic (NA) spirits, and how to create elevated drink experiences without losing that neighborhood bar energy. If you’re into craft cocktails, food pairing, culinary creativity, hospitality industry insights, or unique event experiences, this episode is packed with ideas, stories, and inspiration.This one is hilarious, and insightful, a deep dive into cocktail culture, chef-driven food, and the creative process behind building unforgettable experiences.Follow & connect with Proof & Pairing:Proof & Pairing (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/proofandpairing/Montperi Catering (Lamont Perriman): https://www.instagram.com/montpericatering/New Alchemy Distilling: https://www.newalchemysf.com/Subscribe, share, and leave a review, it helps more people find Ducking Realitea.More content, events, and chaos coming soon 👀Support the showThanks for hanging in the pond, my ducks 🐤Where we keep it honest, casual conversations about serious sh*t, and somehow still find a way to laugh through it.If you felt something, send it to someone you love… or someone who might need a little push.Follow along:https://www.instagram.com/duckingrealitea/And go out there and find your joy, even if it’s a little chaotic.Stay curious, stay joyful…you’re deeply loved, my ducks.