Each year, nonprofit organization Project by Project hosts a food-centric fundraiser to benefit a local parterning charity with the hopes of helping to increase its awareness and furthering its cause. The evening, dubbed ‘Plate by Plate,’ brought together some of New York City’s most esteemed chefs on Friday evening inside of the ritzy Metropolitan Pavilion’s fifth floor space The Level.  Attendees donned black ties and dresses to support 2016′s partner, the NQAPIA or National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance, with promises of an evening featuring meticulously plated fare, hand crafted cocktails and the company of likeminded philanthropic guests over the course of three festive hours.

The LGBTQ community is perhaps the most prevalent present-day target of hate crimes and as such, tapping NQAPIA was a suitable choice for 2016′s ‘Plate by Plate,’ which would effectively assist the local Asian American community in the ongoing battle against such vile forms of prejudice. From its opening moments, the event exuded class immediately as each attendee would be walked down the red carpet, posing amid a sea of flashbulbs in anticipation of the array of eats laid out before them.  Fortunately, there were plenty of beers, spirits and cocktail offerings to kick of the Friday night affair in style.

Just a few feet inside of the space, we were immediately greeted by a friendly representative from Koval, whose crisp whiskey was a fittingly appropriate introduction to the room ahead.  We made quick work of trips to World Sake Imports who served up our favorite spirit of the evening by far- the ultra-premium ‘Daiginjo’- paired with a particularly fatty fish, at the suggestion of the sake purveyors.  Fortunately, Toloache‘s excellent truffle adorned “Yellowfin Tuna” was being plated nearby.  Served over a crunchy and crispy chicharron, the clean and delicious tasting fish offered up a complexity of different flavors and textures, washed down with a refreshing swig of chilled sake to the utter delight of our palettes.

Meshing different dishes and drinks would become a theme all evening long- whether recommended by a professional on hand or not.  The mavens of mixology at Middle Branch served up a particularly tasty and approachable take on an “Old-Fashioned,” a surprisingly soothing pairing with Thalassa Restaurant’s “Lavraki Tartar,” served inside of a filo cone with a creamy caviar moose.  Savoring the seafood flavor, we grabbed some pours of the perpetually refreshing Tiger Beer, before jumping into our favorite taste of the evening courtesy of Mission Ceviche.  A tangy spoonful of “Classic Ceviche” paired red onion and lime and a dish called “Chicken (Aji de Gallina),” which would be best described as a “fresh take on chicken salad.”  Replete with a yellow chili pepper cream, parmesan cheese and aioli, the dish in totality made for an ideal pairing with the great-tasting carbonated brew can.

While many guests were parading around the space, we noticed that mini restaurants had been set up off to the sides of the room, equipped with long tables dressed in black table cloths.  Pop-up style eateries were formed on the spot, roped off by red velvet barriers giving off a feeling of exclusivity for the VIP guests ready to dine.  Approaching each pop-up, we carefully made a reservation and awaited our turn for a chance to sample two distinctive tasting menus on site- a nice touch to an already classy evening.  From the delicious “Scallop” surrounded by corn and pancetta at Vai/Raw to the salty and delightfully doughy “Fresh White Fish Cake” from Carma Asian Tapas, each course was seemingly better than its predecessor as we continued to gorge until we ran out of room.

As usual, the entirety of the evening was a special one.  The food unsurprisingly, was delicious.  The cause itself, was thoroughly inspiring.  And the array of silent auction items was unparalleled.  Whether or not you know someone directly that has struggled with gender acceptance or prejudice, Project by Project made 2016′s ‘Plate by Plate’ an experience to which any human being can relate.  And they managed to do so one dish at a time.

- Jane Van Arsdale

Food Highlights from Project by Project’s ‘Plate by Plate’ 2016

Mission Ceviche: “Classic Ceviche” & “Chicken (Adji de Gallina)”

  

Thalassa Restaurant: “Lavraki Tartar with Caviar Mousse in Filo Cone”

Butter Lane: “Cupcakes – Assorted Flavors”

  

Toloache: “Atun y Chicharron” – Yellowfin Tune, black truffles, Yuzu, Cilantro, crispy chicharron

Ivy Bakery: “Butter Gooies”

Insa: “Kimbap – Vegetable Rice Roll”

Vai / Raw:  “Heirloom Carrot,” “Hamachi Crudo,” “Scallop,” “Rabbit,” & “Passionfruit”

  

  

Carma Asian Tapas: “Crispy Wosum Salad,” “Fresh White Fish Cake,” “Five Spiced Beef” & “Hot Chili White Meat Chicken”

  

  

It is estimated that today, two out of three people will survive cancer- both a testament to the success of enhanced research and education- and also, a statistic that still shows just how far we have left to go with efforts toward the prevention and treatment of the affliction. The American Cancer Society is among the most highly regarded and well-known nonprofit organizations in the country, one whose efforts have helped to lower the death rates from cancer some twenty-two percent over the last two decades. On Wednesday evening, dozens upon dozens of New York City’s finest restaurants and chefs gathered together for The 11th Annual ‘Taste of Hope,’ a gala event of sorts that was one part feast and another part fundraiser, in the name of creating a cancer-free world, once and for all.

Some 800 food loving philanthropists would make their way to the spacious Metropolitan Pavilion where guests were welcomed to bid on a bevy of special silent auction items, hobnob with a handful of celebrities on hand and of course, to indulge in some of the seemingly endless array of culinary delights being plated around the room. Emceed by CBS2 anchor Chris Wragge and actor Richard Kind (Spin City, Curb Your Enthusiasm), the evening alone would raise upwards of $200,000 during the course of a few short hours, where Chef David Burke (Fishtail by David Burke) and Restaurateur Drew Nieporent (Owner, Myriad Restaurant Group) would be recognized alongside Philanthropic Honoree Jean Shafiroff (Author, ‘Successful Philanthropy’) as the esteemed 2016 ‘Taste of Hope’ Honorees.

Other guests like former New York Giant, Harry Carson, Ms. New York, Alison Trenk and Celebrity Chef Todd English could be spotted parading around the space with different delectable dishes in hand. And speaking of dishes, there were a multitude of favorites from which to choose, suited to fit even the most fickle of tastes. Seafood samples would prove to be among the most satisfying of the evening. Returning favorites like Luke’s Lobster (“Mini Shrimp Rolls”) played as a perfect precursor to the likes of Delicatessen’s exceptional “Steamed Shrimp Dumplings” served with white beech mushrooms and a deliciously salty dashi. L&W Oyster Co. inventively used Corn Nuts to complement their “Brooklyn Clam Chowder,” richly enhanced with Long Island clams, hearty potatoes and a Coney Island Pilsner Cream froth. It seems that year after year however, Rock Center Café pulls out all the stops and this year’s “Grilled Shrimp Escabeche” was no different. The bulbous meat pulled right from the small tail, pairing nicely with a creamy fava bean puree and some farro for accompanying balance. Beautifully plated, tender and tasty – all on one sample-sized plate.

Of course we’d be remiss if we failed to mention more savory offerings from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que (“Mini Pulled Pork Sliders” with a dollop of tangy BBQ sauce), BLT Prime’s wonderful looking “Salt Brick Beef” served with a potato wafer or Todd English Enterprises, who drew the affair’s lengthiest line with sizable portions of “Crispy Duck Buns,” lacquered in subtly sweet sauce and served within the fluffy confines of a white bao-like pillow. After washing much of the decadent fare down with some of the select wines on hand (the Vente Vineyards Viva Ranch “Pinot Noir” and the Concannon Vineyard “Petite Syrah” were particular favorites) as well as some refreshing cocktails courtesy of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, it was time to dip into the dessert pool. A quick stop off for some of Serendipity 3’s “Frrrozen Hot Chocolate,” a grab of a “Crispy Rice Treat” from Chef Wendy Israel at Treat House and even the opportunity to make your own truffles courtesy of Voila Chocolat would await any folks still able to continue.

For us though, the evening of eating was given a quick and drastic ending as our stomachs could no longer compete with our eyes. The 11th Annual ‘Taste of Hope’ may have moved into a new space this year, but the affair was equally as memorable as the ten that preceded- replete with perhaps the most stellar collection of New York restaurants as any event in recent memory. Although the dishes being offered seemed at one point to be limitless, that same could not be said for the space in our bellies as we made one last ditch effort to win our silent auction item of choice – and in the process, donate some of our hard earned money toward a cause of such stature.

- Jane Van Arsdale

Food Photos from The 11th Annual ‘Taste of Hope’

Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse: “Tenderloin Over Garlic Truffle Mashed Potatoes”

Luke’s Lobster: “Mini Shrimp Rolls”

AG Kitchen: “Cubano”

Calle Ocho: “Guava BBQ Meatball Slider”

Entree Metropolitan: “Honey Wheat Flatbread with Spring Vegetables”

Runner & Stone: “Ramp Crostini on Baguette” & “Lamb Salumi on Semolina”

 

Barney Greengrass:  “Mini Bagels with Cream Cheese & Smoked Salmon”

Treat House: “Crispy Rice Treats”

Magnolia Bakery:  “Banana Pudding,” “Assorted Mini Cupcakes” & “Chocolate Chunk Cookies”

 

Bareburger:  “Organic Vanilla and Chocolate Milkshakes”

Parkway Bakery & Tavern: “New Orleans Italian 3 Meat Muffuletta with Olive Salad”

La Fonda Del Sol: “Watermelon Gazpacho with Lobster Salad”

STK Downtown: “Braised Beef Short Rib, Green Apple Confit, Horseradish Cream”

Distilled NY: “Chicken Liver Pate with Whipped Honey and Red Wine Pickled Shallots”

Alidoro: “Italian Specialty Sandwiches”

 

Nobu New York: “Tuna Sashimi with Tofu Aioli”

BLT Prime: “Salt Brick Beef with Aji Amarillo and Bourbon Beef Jerky”

Sprinkles: “Assorted Mini Cupcakes and Cookies”

 

The Smith: “Toasted Ricotta Gnocchi with White Truffle Cream”

Paragon Tap & Table: “Buffalo Pulled Chicken on Blue Cheese Slaw on Jalapeno Crisp”

Morris Tap & Grill: “Feta Watermelon, Olive Dust with Mache and Herb Vinaigrette”

Rock Center Cafe: “Grilled Shrimp Escabeche with Toasted Farro Salad and Fava Bean Puree”

Delicatessen: “Steamed Shrimp Dumplings, White Beech Mushrooms, Dashi, Young Ginger”

Chef Max Miami: “Coffee-Braised Pork Butt with Grilled Pineapple”

 

Big Bang Kitchens @ Boro Hotel: “Ramp and Fennel Panna Cotta with Braised Goat, Kalamata Pearls, Feta Powder”

The Sea Fire Grill: “Mediterranean Octopus Terrine”

Crave Fishbar: “Salmon Crudo with a Watermelon Radish, Gooseberry and Asparagus Relish”

The Leopard at Des Artistes: “Eggplant Parmigiano Reggiano Sauce with Sage and Mushroom Ragout”

Triomphe Restaurant: “Foie Gras Mousse, Hazelnut and Rooftop Greens”

L&W Oyster Co.: “Brooklyn Clam Chowder- Long Island Clams, Coney Island Pilsner Cream, Potatoes, Corn Nuts”

Almond: “Fish Tacos, Guajillo Aioli, Pickled Chiles”

The Kati Roll Company: “Chicken Tikka/Mixed Veggie”

Voila Chocolat: “Gourmet Chocolate Truffle-Making Station”

Raymi: “Ceviche Mixto – Leche de Tigre, Corvina, Shrimp, Squid, Octopus, Sweet Potato”

Serendipity 3: “Frrrozen Hot Chocolate”

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: “Mini Pulled Pork Sliders”

Todd English Enterprises: “Crispy Duck Buns with Grilled Five Spice Duck Breast”

Fresco by Scotto: “Creamy Polenta with Chicken and Veal Bolognese”

Doc’s Cake Shop: “Southern Style Cupcakes” & “Banana Pudding”

Feeding fuels philanthropy. A crowd of more than 500 guests gathered inside of the Metropolitan Pavilion on Monday evening to echo that very sentiment.  2016′s ‘Taste of Greenwich House’ triumphantly returned to the sprawling Chelsea space backed by more than thirty of New York City’s finest restaurants and well known chefs.  The nonprofit organization boasts several noble initiatives and the evening would serve to raise funds for Greenwich House’s continued programs toward the likes of rehabilitating victims of child abuse, after school programs for youths and caring for senior citizens among other locally driven focuses.

For three full hours, guests registered at the ‘Gourmet’ or ‘VIP’ level would have license to parade around the room, selectively plucking from the  collection of outstanding eats, washed down with an litany of Tsingtao beers, Sequoia Grove wines from Napa Valley and refreshing bottles of VOSS Water.  In the center of all the action sat a bevy of silent auction items where wagering guests would dig deep into their considerable pockets for the chance at items from tickets to local sporting events and live concerts to unparalleled tasting experiences, one-of-a-kind artwork, jewelry and much more.  With live music being performed by the equivalent of a small orchestra in the background courtesy of JD Parran and Dance Clarinets, we set out to begin an evening of indulgence courtesy of some of the City’s most esteemed chefs and their talented cooking staffs.

From seafood to meat to satisfying desserts, the menu of dishes at ‘Taste of Greenwich House’ was appropriate for eaters of any style, influenced by just about every culture’s cooking.  Chilled fish would prove to be among the most popular offerings with the likes of Sushisamba’s scrumptious “Yellowtail Taquitos,” Bodega Negra’s mango, habanero and avocado layered “Lobster Tostada,” Annisa’s “Alaska Sockeye Salmon Tartar” and The Clam’s “Yuzu Crusted Fluke Crudo,” replete with ginger, chives and a tasty watermelon radish being the standouts.  We also went wild for Swine’s small servings of “Lobster Shooters,” deliciously diced up alongside sweet hints of pomegranate, minced watermelon radish, blood orange and crisp potato for balance.  Fortunately for hungrier eaters, there was also plenty of heartier fare to satiate the appetites of even the most extreme meat-lovers.

The Cornelia Street Cafe of Greenwich Village seemed to offer up the best of both worlds with an inventively prepared “Surf and Turf Slider” pairing a hunk of piping hot beef brisket with cooked shrimp, topped by a smattering of pickled heirloom carrots.  Not only was the dish visually stunning, the contrast of unusual flavors managed to work together cohesively despite their unorthodox pairing.  Meatballs both traditional (Ristorante Rafele) and innovative (The Meatball Shop’s “Reuben Meatballs”) would also prove to be both savory and intensely popular with the roomful of guests as nearby napkins quickly became essential given the sauce-lacquered nature of both places’ tender spheres- while pork also seemed to rule the day with notable dishes from Monument Lane (“Bourbon Braised Pork with Smoked Chiles”), Bar Bacon (“Pulled Pork and Bacon BBQ Dumplings”) and Little Owl, whose “Roast Pork Sandwich” topped with creamy provolone and broccoli rabe was intensely delicious between two fluffy bread slices.

When it was time for attendees to take a break from the excitement of food tasting, there was plenty of other activity to enjoy around the space.  As an added treat, guests would crowd around competitive ballroom dancer Slavi Baylov and a partner near the back of the room and watch as they precisely danced through some of their routines as the audience marveled between bites.   Many folks would alternate between pacing around the silent auction tables in the center of the room to keep an eye on their existing auctions, posed for pictures at the makeshift photo booth situated up front or grabbed a seat to enjoy some of the live music being performed.  But for the rest of us, it was all about finding a way to make more room for the excellent dishes from the likes of Hundred Acres and Cafe Clover, Tacombi and Ox Cart Tavern and of course One if by Land, Two if by Sea, who served our very favorite dish of the evening.  Succulent suck confit was stuffed inside two soft envelopes of agnolotti pasta, complemented by some leeks and castelmagno to yield a perfect blend of salty and savory in each rich and textured bite.

Greenwich House’s offered programs are as diverse and far-reaching as the menu being offered at their 14th annual tasting event.  Founded back in 1902 to assist with immigrants settling into our area, the organization today seeks to help seemingly all New Yorkers- from those struggling with chemical dependency to programs for students and lovers of the arts.  It’s fitting then that an upscale evening like “Taste of Greenwich House” would serve as a donation of sorts for such a great cause.  Though the names of notable chefs certainly drew the audience to the Metropolitan Pavilion on Monday night, it’s the tremendous work being done at Greenwich House that drove them to participate in the first place.

- Dave Gendelson

Food Photos from ‘Taste of Greenwich House’ 2016

Annisa: “Alaska Sockeye Salmon Tartar”

Sushisamba: “Yellowtail Taquitos”

Ben & Jack’s Steak House

Barraca: “Churros”

Macondo: “Smoked Brisket & Pork Belly Tacos”

Monument Lane: “Bourbon Braised Pork with Smoked Chilies and Spicy Pickles”

Swine: “Lobster Shooter”

Davio’s: “Potato Gnocchi, Mushroom Truffles”

Ristorante Rafele: “Eggplant Rollatino”

The Cornelia Street Cafe: “Surf & Turf Sliders”

Chola: “Bhel Poori” & “Batata Sev Puri”

Bar Bacon: “Pulled Pork and Bacon BBQ Dumplings”

Knickerbocker Bar & Grill: “Caviar Pie”

Murray’s Cheese Bar: “Assorted Cheeses”

 

Neuman’s Kitchen: “Yuzu Marinated Arctic Char”

The Meatball Shop: “Reuben Meatballs”

Market Table: “Market Beet Salad”

Little Owl: “Roast Pork Sandwich”

The Clam: “Yuzu Marinated Fluke Crudo”

Tulsi: “Tulsi Paneer” & “Lauki Halwa”

Hundred Acres: “Lebne”

Cafe Clover: “Vegan Beet and Mushroom Sliders”

Bodega Negra: “Lobster Tostada”

dell’anima: “Brussel Sprout Salad”

Epicurean Events: “Beets Arancini Fontina & Goat Cheese”

Tacombi: “Carnitas Taco”

One if by Land, Two if by Sea: “Duck Confit Agnolotti”

Ox Cart Tavern: “Signature Tavern Burgers”

Left Bank: “Sausage Spiedini”

Bedford Sweet Shop: “Coconut Cake”

With the season in full swing, City Harvest quite literally transformed the Metropolitan Pavilion into a beachfront setting on Wednesday night. Celebrating 2015′s “Summer in the City,” the nonprofit organization welcomed upwards of 45 New York City restaurants into one space for a festive eating and drinking fueled fundraiser. The group works tirelessly to serve more than one million hungry New Yorkers each year, and with more than 750 philanthropic attendees on hand, this year’s grandiose affair would garner more than $300,000 in total throughout another incredible evening.

The sprawling space was adorned with all of summertime’s notable accoutrements so that the atmosphere genuinely felt like that of an authentic seaside town. Comfortable lounge chairs and couches sat underneath yellow umbrellas as guests sampled an array of different rose wines and grabbed savory dishes from The Beatrice Inn, La Esquina and Burger & Lobster in the VIP area. Meanwhile out on the main floor, boardwalk-style fencing segregated ‘The Pier’ from the main standing room space, where City Harvest Culinary Chair and The Stanton Social Chef, Chris Santos was doling out delectable “Cobb Salad Bites” and “Tune Poke Wonton Tacos” as DJ Hesta Prynn swooned the large crowd, spinning music as a backdrop to the evening.

Images of massive seagulls shined upon the space’s far walls, where strands of lights were decoratively arranged in the vein of a night time beach party- though in lieu of bathing suits, guests were all dressed to the nines. Fortunately with such a preponderance of food encompassing just about every style of cuisine, there was no shortage of options for the hungry audience. Seafood lovers were undoubtedly delighted by Bodega Negra‘s fresh “Yellowtail Ceviche” topped with a sweet ginger coconut sauce and Annisa‘s oustanding “Salmon Crudo with Green Goddess,” two particularly stand out dishes in our first trip around the space. We also indulged in ramen offerings from mokbar and Jin Ramen- cold and hot varieties respectfully- which we somehow managed to keep from splashing on our wardrobe.

Though the evening’s chefs were certainly the event’s drawing card, grabbing expertly crafted cocktails from some of the city’s finest Mixologists only served to enhance an already mouthwatering affair. From Momofuku‘s strongly prepared “Bonji Old Fashioned” to BKB‘s downright delicious “Paper Ships,” served neat with Hennessy infused with Chamomile, some of the drinks managed to be just as notable as the dishes themselves.  Ice cold bottles of Amstel Light would also come in handy when washing down some of the heartier fare from the likes of Michael Jordan’s The Steak House NYC (“Sliced Strip Steak with Black Truffle Creamed Spinach”), Benchmark (a sizable “Cherry Wood Smoked Baby Backed Rib”) and Javelina (“Carnitas Taco”). But we’d be remiss if we failed to mention Emily‘s refreshing and tasty “Carrot Soup” with pieces of pepperoni and Dinosaur Bar-B-Que‘s perpetually consistent “Pulled Pork Sliders,” two exceptional dishes from served by some of our favorite frequent event participants.

Of the many dishes that we sampled, dishes from Pies ‘n’ Thighs and The Sea Grill managed to be most memorable. First, the small in stature but wildly flavorful “Mini Chicken Biscuit” was two bites of straight comfort food delight. Drizzled with honey butter and a touch of hot sauce for contrast, the fried white meat cutlet was sandwiched between halves of a creamy and rich buttermilk biscuit, yielding an intense range of different flavors. The Sea Grill meanwhile, served up an eclectic combination with a thick pepper tapenade atop a “Scallop and Shrimp Sausage.” The toasted brioche bun enveloping the many elements could barely contain the hearty juxtaposition of distinctive ingredients held within its contents as the link would explode with juice with each passing bite.

Though folks seemed to really enjoy some of the intricately prepared desserts from Ample Hills Creamery and bites from Roni-Sue Chocolates and Butter & Scotch, we had reached our fill long before musician Julian Velard and his band would take center stage. Spirits seemed to remain sky high for the rest of the crowd in attendance, continuing to parade around the space and picking at food until each restaurant had begun packing up their equipment for the night. Another exquisite affair now in their rear view, City Harvest once again proved with “Summer in the City” that sometimes sticking around in New York City is just as satisfying as heading out to a beach town – especially with this collection of chefs volunteering to serve the masses.

Food Highlights from City Harvest’s ‘Summer in the City’ 2015

Javelina: “Carnitas Taco“

Willow: “Snap Peas with Wild Boar Bacon, Sunchoke & Rhubarb“

Amali: “Harissa-Spiced Beet Tartare”

Bien Cuit: “Summer Squash Tartine with Chayote, Black Bean Puree”

Benchmark: “Cherry Wood Smoked Baby Backed Ribs, Spiced Pickled Watermelon”

Dos Caminos: “Guacamole with Tortilla Chips”

Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola: “Fried Green Tomatoes with Pepper Jelly”

Bodega Negra: “Yellowtail Ceviche with Ginger Coconut Sauce & Plantain Chips”

In Vino: “Fresh Apricots with House-Cured Duck Prosciutto”

Momofuku: “Bonji Old Fashioned”

The Sea Grill: “Scallop and Shrimp Sausage with Peppers and Toasted Brioche”

The Camlin: “Deviled Eggs with Jalapeno and Chicharrones”

L’Apicio: “Confit of Pancetta”

Txikito: “Huevo con Huevo- Soft Egg with Summer Vegetables with Crispy Shrimp”

The Little Beet Table: “Crab Salad with Melon, Cucumber and Basil”

Jin Ramen: “Miso Ramen”

Pies ‘n’ Thighs: “Mini Chicken Biscuit”

Hecho en Dumbo: “Holy Leaf Wrapped in Queso Oaxaca”

Emily: “Carrot Soup with Carrot Chips and Pepperoni”

W&T Seafood: “Oysters on the Half Shell”

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: “Pulled Pork Sliders”

La Esquina: “Taco with Braised Duck Leg, Pipian Mole, Frisee, Black Truffle Vinaigrette & Manchego Cheese”

Burger & Lobster: “Mini Lobster Rolls”

The Beatrice Inn: “45-Day Dry Aged Sliders with D’affinois Cheese and Red Wine Caramelized Onions”

Tooker Alley: “Evening Falls – Gin, Maraschino, Pear Eau de Vie, Lemon, Honey, Lavender Bitters, Cinnamon”

BKB: “Paper Ships – Chamomile-infused Hennessy, Amaro, Cointreau”

Barbounia: “Lamb Shawarma with House-Made Hummus, Amba and Salsa Verde”

Annisa: “Alaskan Sockeye – Salmon Crudo with Green Goddess”

Michael Jordan’s The Steak House NYC: “Sliced Strip Steak with Black Truffle Creamed Spinach on a Toasted Crostini”

Sushisamba: “Yellowtail Tiradito with Jalapeno and Lemongrass”

mokbar: “Cold Ramen with Ramp Cucumber Kimchi, Garlic Chives and Kimchi-Apple Broth”

The Stanton Social: “Cobb Salad Bites” & “Tuna Poke Wonton Tacos”

 

Roble: “Chicken Doro Wat with Crispy Onions and Smoked Berber Spice”

Ample Hills Creamery: “Snap Mallow Pop!”

 

Laurie & Sons: “Dark Chocolate Toffee with Maine Sea Salt”

FP Patisserie: “Coconut Mango Verrines”

Butter & Scotch: “Mini Ramos, Gin Fizz Squares”

Oceana: “Blueberry Bread Pudding with Candied Ginger, Fresh Mint and Lemon”

Roni-Sue Chocolates: “Bacon and Caramel and Pretzel Nuggets and Chile Flakes and Peanuts”

One Girl Cookies: “Mini Whoopie Pies”

A whopping 52 different neighborhood restaurants banded together on Wednesday evening for one of the most grandiose food tasting and charitable events of the year. The 15th Annual “Taste of the Lower East Side” welcomed hundreds of hungry eaters and area residents to the posh Metropolitan Pavilion in Chelsea for an evening of exquisite eats presented by many of the area’s most popular chefs and their hard working staffs.

As synonymous as the annual event is with the Lower East Side‘s sense of community, the affair’s annual host and beneficiary Grand St. Settlement is equally as inspirational. The nonprofit organization, in celebration of its 100th year, has worked to create a multitude of opportunities for low-income families. Through its assortment of programs focused on the likes of mentorship and support for both youths and adults, as well as learning and career development and advancement, the group leans on its volunteers and its neighbors for necessary assistance in furthering its initiatives. But on Wednesday evening, Grand St. Settlement relied on its many restaurant partners and a jam packed room of attendees for some additional philanthropy in celebrating their biggest event of the calendar year.

Once inside, it was hard not to be impressed by the layout of the tasteful affair with a seemingly endless bevy of restaurant tables meticulously mapped around the sprawling space. In the background, behind the conversation of buzzing patrons vying for the next delicious dish being doled out, a house DJ nicely worked a mix throughout the evening, often capturing the essence of the party atmosphere being enjoyed by the many revelers inside. When guests were not racing around the room and getting their fill on the eclectic fare, they would often take time to peruse the unparalleled silent auction experiences that would benefit the evening’s cause. Though we had our eyes on the likes of a “Helicopter Ride to the Hamptons” and an authentic “Airplane Bar Cart” early on, we were quickly over-matched by another generous bidder, despite our best efforts.

With our sights set on the array of options that lay in front of us, it was hard not to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of restaurants that we had our hearts set upon. Fortunately, comfort food proved to be the most popular culinary concept of the day with many restaurants putting their own twist on traditional dishes. Early on, we went wild for crispy fried dishes like Schiller’s Liquor Bar’s piping hot “Reuben Croquettes” and for temperature contrast, Seoul Chicken’s “Cold Fried Chicken Man-Wich,” deliciously basted with a creamy miso aioli and pickled chilis for a bit of heat. Clinton St. Baking Co. meanwhile, unleashed their exceptional “Buttermilk Fried Chicken-n-Waffle” on our unsuspecting palates. Enriched by a drizzle of honey and Tobasco sauce, the marriage of sweet and savory worked together brilliantly with its rich consistency and salty flavor profile.

Speaking of salty, The Stanton Social‘s decadent “Cobb Salad Bites” were a revelation. The inside of a small crispy bacon shell was overstuffed with shaved Brussels sprouts, blue cheese chunks and avocado before being topped off with a sliced quail egg. The bite-sized serving delivered a sea of different flavors all of which worked together in familiar and fantastic fashion. Other inventive takes on traditional dishes included Freeman’s “Beet Burger,” GG’s “Cosa Nostra” and “Ron Darling” served atop a matzoh and Pearl & Ash‘s sensationally fatty “Lamb Belly” served with mint sprigs and ramps.

While there were certainly some more tasteful plays on dishes like Porsena’s “White Almond Gazpacho” and DBGB Kitchen and Bar’s “Lemongrass Panna Cotta,” both of which were artistically plated and equally delectable, it was the more basic dishes that had us returning for seconds. Yerba Buena’s “Short Rib Arepas” were seemingly elementary, but perfectly delicious with a creamy slaw and fiery addition of hot sauce atop a braised meat and cornmeal style pie. Meanwhile, Kuma Inn Chef King Phojanakong brought out a whole hog and placed it front and center on his table for savory servings of the restaurant’s “Pig & Pickles,” fully equipped with skin cracklins and all wrapped around a savory hunk of pork. We’d also be remiss not to mention standouts like The Meatball Shop‘s equally simple “Beef Meatballs” and Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya’s “Assorted Handrolls,” which are always consistently tasty wherever their restaurant names appear.

Though the “Taste of the Lower East Side” is in its fifteenth year, our first foray into the event really put into perspective the high caliber of restaurants serving food in the neighborhood. In celebrating the area’s cultural diversity through its many distinctive restaurants, the evening is more than a metaphor for the sense of togetherness that the community exudes. And with nearly nine hundred guests in attendance helping to raise nearly a half million dollars during the course of the evening, the importance of the work being done by the folks at Grand St. Settlement was not lost on any of us – regardless of how completely satiated we were by the time the evening had concluded.

For more information on the work being done by Grand St. Settlement and how you can personally help, have a look at grandsettlement.org.

- Dave Gendelson

Photos from the 2015 Taste of the Lower East Side

Maharlika Filipino Moderno: “Chicken Laing”

Mezetto: “Beet Tartar”

Hecho en Dumbo: “Tostadas De Samaron”

Galli: “Baby Rice Balls”

Edi & The Wolf: “Chicken Schnitzel”

GG’s: “Cosa Nostra” & “Ron Darling”

 

Flinders Lane: “Pork Sausage Roll”

Pies ‘N’ Thighs: “Homemade Buttermilk Biscuit” & “Bourbon Pecan Pie Bites”

 

Root & Bone: “Drunken Deviled Eggs”

The Wren: “Smoked Chicken Liver Mousse”

Moscow 57: “M57 Pickle Mate”

The Meatball Shop: “Beef Meatballs”

Thelma on Clinton: “House Smoked Trout Salad” & “Cream of Cauliflower Soup”

 

Schiller’s Liquor Bar: “Reuben Croquettes”

Seoul Chicken: “Cold Fried Chicken Man-Wich”

DBGB Kitchen and Bar: “Lemongrass Panna Cotta”

Pearl & Ash: “Lamb Belly with Mint and Ramps”

Paulaner: “Paulaner Sausage”

Yerba Buena: “Short Rib Arepas”

 

Sugar Sweet Sunshine Bakery: “Chocolate Chip Cookie Shots” & “Mini Vanilla, Chocolate, Red Velvet Cupcakes”

 

The Comfort: “The Jewbano Sandwich”

Macondo: “Atun Crudo” & “Taquito de Costillas”

 

Black Tree: “Roasted Candy Beets”

Charrua: “Chorizo” & “Corn, Beef & Tuna Empanadas”

 

Il Laboratorio del Gelato: “Gelato & Sorbet”

 

Fung Tu: “Vegetarian Curry Pot Pie”

Porsena: “White Almond Gazpacho”

Balvanera: “Housemade Pate de Campo”

Tiny’s Giant Sandwich Shop: “Grilled Cheese”

Kuma Inn: “Pig & Pickles”

 

Sauce Restaurant: “Filetto” & “Dad’s Marinara”

Roni-Sue’s Chocolates: “BeerCrunch Toffee”

Veselka: “Potato Pierogi,” “Sauerkraut & Mushroom Pierogi” & “Cold Borscht”

 

Grand St. Settlement’s Culinary Arts Program: “Lower East Side Dumplings”

Schapiro’s: “Chopped Liver Crostini”

Antibes Bistro: “Cauliflower Mousse”

Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya: “Assorted Handrolls”

Louie and Chan: “Short Rib Pastrami”

Northern Spy Food Co.: “Sour Cream Panna Cotta”

The Stanton Social: “Cobb Salad Bites”

Loreley Restaurant & Biergarten: “Sausage Platter”

Cata: “Castle Valley Corn Chips” & “Roasted Carrots”

Clinton St. Baking Co.: “Buttermilk Fried Chicken-n-Waffle”

Boulton and Watt: “Assorted House-Made Pickles”

Freeman’s: “Beet Burger”

Russ and Daughters: “Flourless Chocolate Cake”

Gemma: “Yellow Tomato Gazpacho” & “Seared Big Eyed Tuna”

L’Apicio: “Confit Pancetta”

Prohibition Bakery: “Pretzels & Beer” & “Old Fashioned”

 

Pala: “Artisanal Pizza”

   

]]> http://www.localbozo.com/2015/04/food-for-a-cause-the-15-annual-taste-of-the-les/feed/ 1 http://www.localbozo.com/2015/04/greenwich-house-13th-annual-taste/ http://www.localbozo.com/2015/04/greenwich-house-13th-annual-taste/#comments Wed, 01 Apr 2015 14:09:06 +0000 LocalBozo http://www.localbozo.com/?p=10033

Greenwich House has a rich philanthropic history in New York City, one that dates back as early as the turn of the 1900′s. Over the past century, the nonprofit organization has evolved to provide a dozen initiatives ranging from mental health and substance abuse programs to senior services to community arts and development to summer camps for youths, advocating to help New Yorkers lead more enriched lifestyles. Tuesday evening, the organization tapped thirty different restaurants from in and around Manhattan for the benefit of Greenwich House‘s historic 13th Annual “Taste of Greenwich,” a festive fundraiser featuring live music, a massive silent auction and more food and drink than any one person would be capable of handling.

Nearly 600 guests swarmed the many tables inside of Chelsea’s sprawling Metropolitan Pavilion, with enough variety offered between cuisines and styles to appease even the pickiest of eaters. Arriving early, we began perusing table after table of silent auction items which offered tickets to sporting events and concerts, spa treatments, jewelry, hotel stays and a variety of other experiences- all at reasonable starting prices and all of which escalated quickly in support of the evening’s cause. With refreshing pours of Brewery Ommegang‘s tasty “Abbey Ale” in hand, we began methodically making our rounds to taste some of the savory fare being plated all around us.

Meatballs proved to be a particular favorite among the participating restaurants with Good Enough to Eat (“Lamb-Farro Meatball with Charred Eggplant”) and Ristorante Rafele (“Traditional Meatballs in Tomato Sauce”) vying for tender sphere supremacy. But it was The Little Owl’s “Meatball Gravy Slider,” a dish that put their restaurant on the map that we found ourselves swooning over. Sandwiched between two fluffy halves of sourdough, the piping hot meatball was delicate and flavorful, slightly spackled in a subtle but delicious tomato sauce. Other meat-centric offerings like dell’anima‘s hearty “Pork Belly Confit,” Minton’s “Beef Short Rib,” sWine’s “Duck Proscuitto Crostini” and Neuman’s Kitchen‘s slightly sweet “Chianti Rosemary Glazed Pork Belly” each proved to be standouts among the array of unique dishes being served around the spacious room.

After decadently indulging in Bar Bacon‘s meshing of a “Chocolate Bacon Profiterole,” we sought out some lighter fare and in doing so, stumbled upon our two favorite dishes of the evening. Commerce Chef Harold Moore was front and center at his restaurant’s table, although he himself was not serving. Nevertheless, his imprint on Commerce’s exceptional “Vegetable Fricassee” was evident from our first taste. Each creamy spoonful was lacquered with a runny poached egg and a touch of rich truffles for good measure, surrounding a smattering of sliced cherry tomatoes, greens and scallions. Just steps away meanwhile, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse was serving a fluffy dish of “Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms” that was equally as flavorful. Each soft pillow of pasta was sprinkled with tangy white cheese and paired brilliantly with the savory shreds of mushrooms for textural contrast.

We’d certainly be remiss not to mention notable entries like Market Table’s “Spinach Risotto,” Bodega Negra’s “Tuna Tostadas,” Sushisamba’s “New Classic Seviche” and Hundred Acres’ delectable “Deviled Eggs” topped with house-cured pickled Carolina shrimp- each of which was likely to be a favorite of the many arriving guests as the evening wore on. After spending some time chatting with the friendly Morgan Stanley volunteers pouring crisp “Chardonnay” from Napa’s Sequoia Grove, we had clearly reached our fill, having devoured much of the mouthwatering fare being offered. In the end, the 2015 “Taste of Greenwich” was a grand affair, seamlessly run and seemingly, wildly successful for the organization. And despite the many dishes on hand during the course of the evening, that’s the part of the evening that we found most satisfying.

For more information on Greenwich House, their events and programs, take a look at greenwichhouse.org.

- Jane Van Arsdale

Photos from the 13th Annual Taste of Greenwich House

Good: “Lamb-Farro Meatball with Charred Eggplant”

Knickerbocker Bar & Grill: “Caviar Pie”

Neuman’s Kitchen: “Chianti Rosemary Glazed Pork Belly & Fava Bean, Quinoa Salad”

Monument Lane: “Smoked Blue Mussels with Truffle-Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette”

Minton’s: “Beef Short Rib”

Li-Lac Chocolates: “Assorted Chocolates”

 

Bar Bacon: “Chocolate Bacon Profiterole”

Cornelia Street Cafe: “Chocolate Hazelnut Bread Pudding”

sWine: “Duck Proscuitto Crostini” & “Potato Bacon Croquette”

 

Haldi: “Puffed Rice with Peanuts and Tamarind Chutney”

The Clam: “Spring Flounder Crudo”

little owl: “Gravy Meatball Sliders”

Market Table: “Spinach Risotto”

Annisa: “Roasted Beet Salad”

Bodega Negra: “Tuna Tostadas”

VSPOT: “Empanadas and Salsa”

Chal Chili: “Banana Rolls”

Sushisamba: “New Classic Seviche: Wild Striped Bass & Sweet Potato Confit”

Ristorante Rafele: “Eggplant Rollatino”& “Meatballs”

 

Commerce: “Vegetable Fricassee with Truffles and Poached Egg”

Knickerbocker Bar & Grill (VIP): “House Smoked Atlantic Salmon”

Barraca: “Croquetas de Jamon”

Macondo: “Crudo de Atun”

Davio’s: “Gnocchi Bolognese” & “Gnocchi with Wild Mushrooms”

 

Fig & Olive: “Grilled Gazpacho Crostini”

   

Left Bank: “Chicken Liver Pate”

dell’anima: “Pork Belly Confit”

Epicurean Events: “Mini Frito Pie”

William Hallet: “BBQ Pulled Pork Roulade”

Hundred Acres: “Deviled Eggs with House Pickled Carolina Shrimp”

Murray’s Cheese Bar: “Fromage Fort and Pimento Cheese on Potato Crackers”

There are only a handful of venues with the capacity to house several thousand food-seekers for a tasting event of the magnitude of The Village Voice’s annual ‘Choice Eats’ extravaganza. Back for the eighth time, more than fifty restaurants carefully selected by the legendary New York media institution crowded Chelsea’s Metropolitan Pavilion on Friday night, joined by a cavalcade of craft beers, wines and spirits. The sheer spectacle of it all can be downright daunting- especially for first-timers- given the sea of hungry eaters and the vast array of restaurants doling out samples inside. But the event is a rare opportunity to sample some great fare from undiscovered neighborhood gems as well as places that are both famous and familiar and to meet some of the talented folks that masterfully put each dish together.

With our commemorative tasting glasses in hand, we arrived at 6:30pm and ‘Choice Eats’ was already very much underway with a large portion of VIP guests happily enjoying the festivities. Undoubtedly, Fridays in springtime can be a challenge for some eaters- especially prior to Easter- but that simply made some of the meatless options more enjoyable around the room. Exceptional dishes like Commerce’s chilled “Winter Vegetable Fricasse,” Brucie’s stratcciatella “Crostini,” and Juliette’s bulbous “Spicy Florida Rock Shrimp Slider” served to satiate some of the evening’s more fickle eaters, while perpetual staple Luke’s Lobsters’ unparalleled “Maine Shrimp Roll” garnered some of the night’s longest lines as per usual.

Though Manhattan is most often the most widely represented of the boroughs at ‘Choice Eats,’ stars like Fort Greene’s No. 7 (“Broccoli Tacos”), Carroll Gardens’ Wilma Jean (“Fried Bologna Sandwich”), Sunnyside’s Venturo Osteria & Wine Bar (“Black and Green Lasagna”) and Astoria’s Queens Comfort (“Steak Au Poivre Mac & Cheese”) each represented their neighborhoods admirably with some truly eclectic dishes. Strategically, most of the beer and wine purveyors were left along the outside of the fracas meaning guests knew exactly where to head once their glasses were emptied. Filling up on tasty pours of Sixpoint’s “Abigale,” Abita’s refreshing “Strawberry Harvest Lager” and crisp pours of New England cider courtesy of Down East Cider allowed the evening of gluttony to continue without a hitch, as restaurants like The NoMad, Huertas and Rubirosa each vied for our attention with their memorable samples.

Briefly, we made a trip to the venue’s second floor space where ‘Choice Sweets’ would showcase different dessert offerings from Robicelli’s Bakery, Butter & Scotch, Carlo’s Bakery and Sugar Couture- but for us, savory was the word of the day. Back downstairs we went, chatting with some likeminded guests about our favorite dishes of the night- namely the “Pizza Balls with Tomato Sauce” from The Meatball Shop, a delightfully “Sour Braised Beef Short Rib” from Delaware and Hudson and a brilliantly spicy “Laing” from Woodside’s Papa’s Kitchen- a smattering of taro leaves kicked up a with fiery chili that pleasantly popped up on the back end of each bite. But that’s part of the annual event’s charm- discovering new places in and around New York City that might not receive as much fanfare from your local food expert. And that’s what makes ‘Choice Eats’ the year’s most grand food tasting affair, trademarked by a slew of restaurants and wave after wave of excitable guests- all of which always manages to culminate in some delicious fun.

- Jane Van Arsdale

Photos from Village Voice ‘Choice Eats 2015′

Brucie: “Crostini”

Egg: “Country Ham ‘Nduja Toasts”

John Brown Smokehouse: “Pecan Smoked Pastrami Reuben Sliders”

Untamed Sandwiches: “The Hot Goldie Sandwich”

Huertas: “Tortilla de Garbanzos y Morcilla”

Delaware and Hudson: “Sour Braised Beef Short Rib with Caramelized Onion Puree”

Commerce: “Winter Vegetable Fricasse”

Tabata Noodle Restaurant: “Garlic Noodle”

Juliette:  “Spicy Florida Rock Shrimp Slider”

Fort Defiance: “Deviled Eggs“

Xe May Sandwich Shop: “Vermicelli Salad”

Edi & The Wolf: “Chicken Schnitzel”

Coppelia: “Torrejas de Oliva”

Veselka Restaurant: “A Mini Ukrainian Combo Plate”

Red Hook Lobster Pound: “Downeast Bisque”

2 Duck Goose: “Pineapple Bun Sliders”

Rubirosa Ristorante & Pizzeria: “Osso Buco Tortelloni”

Baz Bagel & Restaurant: “Latkes Dill-luxe”

The East Pole: “Braised Heritage Goat Sandwich”

Luke’s Lobster: “Maine Shrimp Rolls”

Bustan: “Lamb Shawarma”

Genuine: “Ahi Tartare Tostadas”

Papa’s Kitchen: “Laing”

Awadh: “Murgh Korma” & “Biryani”

 

Queens Comfort: “Steak Au Poivre Mac & Cheese”

Boomwich: “Dr. Cubano Slider”

Los Tacos No. 1: “Taco Sampler”

The Meatball Shop: “Pizza Balls with Tomato Sauce”

No. 7: “Broccoli Tacos”

Wilma Jean: “Fried Bologna Sandwich”

Brooklyn Koloache Co.: “Sausage, Jalapeno & Cheese” & “Blueberry Sweet Cheese”

 

Venturo Osteria: “Black and Green Lasagna”

Mable’s Smokehouse: “Sweet & Savory Corn Cakes with BBQ Pulled Pork”

The Nomad: “Sea Urchin Panna Cotta”

The Kati Roll Company: “Authentic Calcuttan Street Food: Kati Rolls”

Sigmund’s Pretzels: “Oven Fresh Hand Rolled Pretzels and a Surprise in a Blanket”

Pickle Shack: “Banh-Mi”

Recette: “Grilled Kingfish, Jicama Squash Salad, Parsnip and Black Garlic Puree”

The Gorbals: “Skewered Grilled Beef Tongue”

Tuome: “Beets”

Calle Dao: “Lechon Asado”

The Queens Kickshaw: “Broccoli Soup”

It’s among the year’s most well attended eating festivals by both scenester guests and participating restaurants. And it’s one you may have read about on our site either here, here, here or here. Typically, Friday the 13th is reserved for those of us with bad luck- fortunately, The Village Voice has your four-leaf clover in the form of “Choice Eats 2015,” the 8th annual frenzied feast that emanates this year from Chelsea’s Metropolitan Pavilion.

For more than three hours, hundreds of hungry eating enthusiasts will swarm the sprawling setting to devour delicious fare from upwards of fifty different restaurants doling out sweet and savory samples. This year, the event is drawing out restaurants from the surrounding boroughs where Queens eateries John Brown Smokehouse, Queens Comfort and Casa del Chef join the likes of Brooklyn’s Butter & Scotch, Fletcher’s Brooklyn Barbecue, The Gorbals and Littleneck to ensure that guests all leave satisfied. The participants from Manhattan are too numerous to mention but notables like Luke’s Lobster, Kuma Inn, Casa Mono, Commerce Restaurant, Huertas and many more are already signed on for the festivities.

Couple the endless array of delicious bites with an unlimited supply of differing beers, wines and cocktails and a sea of different desserts – ‘Choice Sweets’ and you’d be hard pressed to find a more complete collection of the dining life here in New York City. With live entertainment and a commemorative tasting glass, affordably priced tickets are available now. Can’t make “Choice Eats?” Fear not- as the team from The Village Voice returns on Tuesday, May 5th with the spring’s best food truck-centric event “Choice Streets.” Don’t just stare at your friend’s photos from the festivites on Instagram- make plans to secure your space while tickets last.

- Jane Van Arsdale

Most of our monthly preview pieces are intended to try to keep you busy and active in New York City. On the contrary, Thursday evening Edible Manhattan hosted a cavalcade of restaurants, tourism organizations and spirits purveyors tasked with persuading locals to actually head out of town from time to time. The 4th Annual “Edible Escape” emanated from Chelsea’s Metropolitan Pavilion, where the spacious venue would line its interior with an eclectic mix of eats, drinks and swag that allowed hundreds upon hundreds of feisty guests the opportunity to get out of the City without actually having to go anywhere.

The line of guests extended far down 19th Street while waiting for the evening’s 6pm start time- but once inside, it was a free-for-all of tastes allured by the many dishes being concocted nearby. Almost immediately we recognized some familiar faces Chef David Santos of West Village restaurant Louro was all smiles while plating a “Housemade Kimchi.” The chilled shredded dish paired pickled onion with kabocha squash salad and a kimchi drizzle that added a fiery kick at the tail end of each bite. Fortunately our sponsored Bormioli Rocco stemware was already filled with a generous pour of Brooklyn Brewery’s “Brown Ale” to alleviate some of the resulting spice from Chef Santos’ creation. Kimchi was also a popular ingredient at Mokbar‘s table where their creative “Bulgogi Ramen” admirably paired marinated ribeye hunks with caramelized onion, a poached egg and savory ramen noodles. The hearty portion was only enhanced by the flurry of sprinkled on black sesame seeds which nicely brought the array of different flavors together.

Following some pours of Owney’s NYC Rum and some light vino samples courtesy of Brooklyn Winery, we resumed our tasting journey. Greenwich Village restaurant Cuba was serving a delicious “Salmon Tartar” topped with creamy guacamole, capers, red onion and cilantro and was garnering among the event’s longest lines right near the entrance. Just steps away, Ofrenda’s “Tacos de Carnitas” were equally excellent. The succulent suckling pig meat, red onion salad and side of chicharron made for an appetizing play on fast Mexican fare. Surprisingly, our favorite dish of the affair came from the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board. A crunchy tortilla chip served as the utensil for their “Octopus Grilled with Guajillo” and the chunks of purple tentacles were deliciously chewy and rich paired with a garlicky hummus. Though Vella Wine Bar’s “Hamachi Crudo,” Shorculinare’s “Oxtail Ragu with Eggplant Marmalade” and Parker Red Catering’s “Beet Pastrami” were all notable submissions- it was the delectable octopus that stood out for us.

After a few repeat trips to Nobletree Coffee, we had sufficiently been satiated by the many participating restaurants and vendors on hand at the 2014 Escape. Though many of the purveyors inside of the Metropolitan Pavilion represented some of New York City’s finest, others like Catskill Provisions, The Williams Inn On-the-Green at Williams College and Tuthilltown Spirits proved that there is life outside of Manhattan island. And sometimes, it’s those short visit getaways that are the ones we deem as most necessary before resuming another long week of City life.

- Jane Van Arsdale

Parker Red Catering: “Beet Pastrami”

The Black Ant- Cocina de Autor: “Oaxacan Mussels, Tamal, Shrimps, Chinantla Salsa, Chile Ashes”

The Williams Inn: “Dave’s Sweet Corn & Farro Salad“

Ofrenda: “Tacos de Carnitas de Lechon Prensado”

The Red Lion Inn: “Chilled Berry Patch Ratatouille“

Rougette Bavarian Cheese: “Natural Crispbread with Balsamic Fig Reduction“

Cambozola Black Label: “Raw Honey & Marcolina Almonds“

Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board: “Octopus Grilled with Guajillo and Garlic on Hummus”

Louro:  “Housemade Kimchi, Kabocha Squash Salad, Kimchi Dressing, Pickled Onion”

Vella Wine Bar: “Hamachi Crudo”

Cuba: “Salmon Tartar”

Pazzi Pasta: “Smoked Salmon & Gorgonzola” & “Funghi Boscaiola with Proscuitto Cotto”

 

Noah’s: “Roasted Corn Soup”

Bittersweet NYC: “Cardamom Cake Pops” & “Saffron Cake with Coconut Plum”

 

Bobwhite Lunch & Supper Counter: “Pickled Shrimp and Squash Hors d’Oeuvres” & “Carolina Rum Cake”

 

Mokbar: “Bulgogi Ramen”

Shorculinare: “Oxtail Ragu” with Eggplant Marmalade on Pita Cracker

John Andrews Farmhouse Restaurant: “Braised Pork, Blue Hill Farm Cured Bacon, Carnival Squash”

Check out our rundown of 2013′s ‘Plate by Plate’ here.

Topping 2013′s grandiose “Plate by Plate” event would be a challenge for most nonprofit organizations, with an unparalleled array of dishes and drinks from some of New York City’s most notable restaurants and bars. But the team at Project by Project was certainly up to the challenge on Friday evening in a focused and intimate affair at Chelsea’s Metropolitan Pavilion. Year after year, the organization selects one local charity partner for which to raise funds during the course of the evening. This year’s honors would fall upon the Lower East Side’s Henry Street Settlement, an important New York institution that has stood tall for more than 120 years, addressing the challenges of- and focused on raising awareness for- the mental health issues of our residents. Project by Project’s reach into the City’s diverse population of Asian Americans makes “Plate by Plate” a huge success perennially- and this year was certainly no different.

For three and a half hours, hundreds of hungry eaters would be welcome to wine and dine around the massive space- equipped with a photo booth and a DJ working the mix for good measure. Nearly a dozen chefs would be on hand with their staffs representing some of Manhattan’s most recognizable restaurants and backed by some of the country’s best spirits purveyors. Each guest, dressed in cocktail attire, would be given two Life-Savers upon entering the space and each was to be used to cast a vote for the night’s finest dish and drink, respectively.  Loading up on refreshing cocktails from the teams at Bombay Sapphire and Tito’s Handmade Vodka, we quickly sought out some of the incredible dishes being served. Chef Jonathan Wu of Fung Tu was front and center at his table with a creamy and delicious “Chilled Corn Soup” that served as an excellent precursor to some of the evening’s heartier dishes.  Equally as satisfying were the piping hot “Tacos de Costilla” courtesy of Yerba Buena Perry.  The East Village restaurant sandwiched shreds of braised short rib, red onion and a tangy green drizzle inside of a freshly made tortilla.

To no surprise, Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya was garnering considerable buzz throughout the evening with their “Assorted Handrolls,” made to order wrapped sushi containing the likes of yellowtail, salmon and tuna.  With a dollop of soy sauce, each freshly enveloped cone was filled with sticky rice and an assortment of vegetables- and they were down right delectable.  Meanwhile, the longest line of the night would emanate from Vai Restaurant, whose “Hamachi and Yellowfin Duo” atop an oily bed of mashed avocado became the event’s most sought after dish.  If pressed with choosing our favorite dish however, none shone brighter than The Sea Grill’s “Stir-Fried Rock Shrimp.”  Served inside of a hollowed out egg shell, each serving contained succulent hunks of warm shrimp atop a bed of rich and creamy ‘foie gras royale.’  The sample was so savory in fact that the staff actually ran out of their 500 servings and managed to impress us yet again by concocting a “Rock Shrimp Fritatta” on the fly.

Beer lovers were able to toast glasses with a collection of tasty Asian branded beers from Sapporo to Tiger to Singha, each of whom were well represented at different tables spread throughout the space.  Between sipping on different beers and pours of bottled Old-Fashioneds called ‘Slow & Low’ which were outstanding, we joined dozens of other guests in perusing the selection of silent auction items compiled specifically for this night.  From restaurant gift cards to sports memorabilia, attendees couldn’t grab their pens quickly enough to list their names on each bidding sheet- the proceeds from which would be added to the night’s tally for Henry Street Settlement.  As the evening drew to a close, guest votes had been tallied, declaring the aforementioned Vai and Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur as the people’s choice winners.  Though only two purveyors would be crowned as the night’s champions, the real winners were the hundreds of philanthropic guests in attendance who donated a small amount of money to a great cause and organization and were rewarded in undeniable satisfaction.

- Jane Van Arsdale

Sachi: “Duck Massamun Curry” and “Yellowtail Yum”

Fung Tu: “Chilled Corn Soup”

Mokbar: “Cool Ramen Salad with Spicy Dressing” and “Bacon Wrapped Ricecakes with Gochujang Glaze”

 

Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya: “Assorted Handrolls”

Vai Restaurant: “Hamachi and Yellowfin Duo“

The Sea Grill: “Stir-Fried Rock Shrimp with XO Sauce and Foie Gras ‘Royale’“

All’Onda: “Salt Cod Mantecato“

The Fourth: “Pickled Beet and Freekeh Salad“

Thalassa: “Lavraki with Caviar Mousse & Zucchini Fritter with Tzatziki Sauce”

 

Yerba Buena Perry: “Tacos de Costilla“

Gordo’s Cantina: “Street Corn“