Jason Gao 4/14/16 Jason Gao 4/14/16

HOPPR by ABSOLUT Launch Party

The ABSOLUT brand has always been synonymous with magnificent parties. So it's only appropriate that they launched their own party mobile platform, which connects party-goers and throwers alike. Famous Instagram meme couple Elliot Tebele (FuckJerry) and Jessica Anteby (BeigeCardigan) hosted a launch party with DJ Vashtie spinning away.

How many times has this situation happened to you: It’s a casual night in NYC, and you are sitting at home pre-gaming with a couple of friends but there are no plans after? You guys want to go out but you do not want wander the streets. Don’t you just wish that you had someone to tell you all of the parties that are nearby? The extravagant party people at ABSOLUT have created a SOLUTion for this frustrating but common problem.

The cleverly named HOPPR is a new mobile platform that connects party throwers and party goers like never before. The digital program essentially works like Tinder, but instead of swiping for potential mates, you swipe for parties. To use HOPPR , simply log into your Facebook account and choose whether you want to host or attend a party. Then the party throwers can publicly invite party -goers to RSVP. All the attendees have to do is swipe right for the parties they want to attend, and if both are interested and mutually agree, then the address will be revealed. There's no need to fear being on the other side of the town either.

The GPS technology makes sure every party is nearby. If the relation to Tinder hasn't been obvious enough at this point, know the program also helps you make sure the parties have just the right amount of men and women, depending on your preference. Your special someone could be just a party away.

Press and media were invited for an early VIP preview of HOPPR. If this party was a sneak peak of what other HOPPR parties are like, then I will be using it every day. The festivities took place at Mr. Purple, one of my new favorite spots. Not only does this hotel bar have a breathtaking view of the city, but it also features an outdoor heated pool.

A fantastic ABSOLUT mixed open bar and Hors d'oeuvre style food kept all the guests very happy. After waiting for the press to settle down, the HOPPR marketing team introduced HOPPR on a more detailed level and stated that this program will evolve social interaction and the way people will party.

After the marketing presentation, the music got louder and the drinks got stronger. The rest of the guests were now allowed into the event, and the mingling of all the people really showed the potential HOPPR can have in this party-fiend society.

After socializing for a bit I found the hosts Jessica and Elliot sitting there staring at their phones. At first I assumed they were just updating Instagram for their combined following of ten million people, but they were checking out HOPPR.

FuckJerry and BeigeCardigan Photo credit: Joel W. Henderson

So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to AbsolutHoppr.com on your mobile device and either host your own party, or check out what is going on tonight right here in NYC!

Special Thanks to ABSOLUT and Weber Shandwick

Jason Gao 4/12/16 Jason Gao 4/12/16

Trademark Burger Launch Party

A homely and economical burger joint has recently sprung into the vibrant neighborhood of SoHo. This new meat destination is called Trademark Burger and located on Thompson Street; it’s intimately small but delightful. Trademark Burger had a Launch party where exclusive guests got to sample Chef Sebastien's complimentary menu. For the past few months the chef/owner of Cocotte and executive chef/partner of Good Bytes has been quietly working on improving everyone's favorite meal: the burger.

The restaurant only has a handful of seats and is about the size of a NYC studio apartment. With the place being so small, the menu is understandably minuscule.The food tasting sample consisted of mini versions of all of the items on the menu. All of the burgers were juicy and flavorful. The beef was sourced from a Colorado rancher whose cows get to live 34 month long life which doubles the typical 14 months that most cows get. This ensures a tastier and more enriched flavor.

I was able to grab a seat by the bar and starting tasting some of the shakes. My favorite was the vanilla.

The best part about Trademark burgers is the price. A burger will set you back only 7 dollars, and a hot dog will cost you 4 dollar bills. These prices are nearly unheard of at SoHo, and for the quality of food you are getting in return, this place should definitely be on your radar the next time you're in the area.

Jason Gao 4/6/16 Jason Gao 4/6/16

No Kid Hungry Kickoff Party

When people hear stories of kids going hungry, they tend to immediately think of third world countries. However, that is the far from the truth. Did you know that 1 in 5 kids in America go to school hungry in the morning? In fact, more the 16 million kids in the United States struggle with hunger every day.

Childhood hunger detrimentally affects children both short and long term. These kids tend to have trouble learning and are more susceptible to emotional and behavioral problems. We cannot just stand by and let this happen. Just imagine how you would feel if your kids went to school every day with a half empty stomach. An amazing Organization called No Kid Hungry wants to make sure bright kids will not go to school hungry again. No Kid Hungry is a non-profit campaign devoted to ending child hunger in America by promising that all children get the healthy food they need. The organization hopes to achieve that goal by launching school breakfast programs, recruit summer meals sites, and empower families to shop for and prepare healthy meals.

On Monday March 28th, Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry campaign kicked off with a campaign party at Bagatelle. The high-end French restaurant located in the heart of cobbled stoned meatpacking district provided an elegant décor with impressive chandeliers. The party was already started when I arrived with my plus one, Sarah. We checked our coats and headed for the bar in which we both settled for some specialty bourbon drink Ol Buddy by Virgil Kaine . It was my first one of about 4 or 5 that night.

Amazing selections of food were also being passed around, my favorite was definitely the tartar fish, and Sarah really enjoyed the meatballs.

After meeting some people in the room, we decided to sit down and chat. The amazing food never stopped coming to us.

We casually drank and listened to the presentation. It was Sarah's first event, so she was just taking everything in. There was also a photo booth which is a must do at any party event.

After all that, they still provided some delicious desserts. It was a magical night full of food, fun, and good causes.

Special Thanks to Colu Henry for the invite and Henry Oh for the photos.

No Kid Hungry Campaign has a culinary event coming up called "NYC Taste of the Nation" which will take place April 25, 2016. Guests will mix, mingle, and enjoy food and drinks prepared by more than 50 top chefs and bartenders. To donate or purchase tickets for this event please Purchase Tickets

Jason Gao 4/6/16 Jason Gao 4/6/16

The Orphaned Starfish Foundation Gala

Being an orphan is challenging no matter where you are in the world, but in Latin America, Orphans have less than a 2 percent chance of being adopted. Most of these kids spent their young adulthood in institutions, and without any help they eventually leave with grim futures. For the past fifteen years, Starfish Orphaned Foundation has been trying to give these kids a better opportunity to succeed. By providing English language skills, vocational training and computers, Starfish Orphaned Foundation is trying to give these kids a better chance at life.

Once a year, every year, an extraordinary gala is held in order to raise funds to support the organization as it continues improving lives. Almost 90 percent of The Orphaned Starfish Foundation’s operating income for the year is raised during this annual gala. This year, the affair took precedence at Cipriani Wall Street, located just a few blocks away from the bustling stock market exchange. A red carpet welcomed all the guests into the colossal building. The venue was historical, glamorous, and big enough to fit large groups of beautiful people. Although I have been to many gala places, I was still taken back a bit by Cipriani. To this day, it is my second favorite event venue to only The Plaza.

There was a cocktail reception before the dinner, so everyone was up and about looking at auctions. The silent auction had many wonderful items including celebrity signed items and lifetime trips. After walking around, I saw a crowd around some people taking photos. I got closer and noticed that everyone was looking at Miss USA, Olivia Jordan, and Miss Universe, Paulina Vega. Surrounding around these two beautiful ladies were a bunch of cute kids who I later found out were orphans who had participated in the foundation’s program.

Miss USA- Olivia Jordan, and Miss Universe - Paulina Vega, poses with kids who participated in the program — Miss USA- Olivia Jordan, and Miss Universe - Paulina Vega, poses with kids who participated in the program

When dinner time finally came, my hunger was dissolved by the generous portions of steaks flying out of kitchen. As the evening progressed, the Foundation honored a few people who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help disadvantaged children. Few of the honorees included Pittsburg Steeler’s legend Troy and his wife Theodora Polamalu. When Troy gave his speech, I honestly did not recognize him for about 5 minutes due to him having his hair in a ponytail instead of his famous Samoan flowing afro. One of the orphans also gave a speech about how the foundation has and continues to change his life every day. It was heartwarming to see the child personally talk about how he was able to overcome hardships with the help of the foundation and make a better life.

Troy Polamalu looking very different in a ponytail

One of the participating kids gave a amazing speech

I was seated at a table with a school principal. We started chatting and he asked me as press how we can promote this cause so that more people would support it. Without hesitation I answered that we have to look at the problem from a domestic point of view first. Do not get me wrong, I love and fully support what Starfish Orphaned foundation is doing, but I believe that it is a problem that needs assistance in our own country. Everyone had a wonderful time, and after dinner, a salsa band came out and got everyone on the dance floor. With the help of some drinks and a great mc, the live auction brought in about 1.1 million. When orphaned kids are involved, how can you not support such a wonderful cause?

To help or purchase tickets for 2016, please visit Starfish

Jason Gao 4/6/16 Jason Gao 4/6/16

La Marca Prosecco Tower of Teacups High Tea

Whenever people go to The Glasshouses in Chelsea Towers, it’s usually for a glamorous event or an intimate evening. This night had both. Gilt City, the website offering exclusive local experiences, and La Marca Prosecco hosted The Tower of Teacups High Tea event, where exclusive guests were invited to an extravagant evening of traditional high tea and La Marca Prosecco with a stunning view of Manhattan.

My anticipation peaked when in the elevator going up to the event and I could already hear the music. The moment those elevators opened, my guest and I were greeted to an electric violinist who was playing the tunes of “Rather Be”. The beautiful violinist did a splendid job keeping the room entertained and upbeat the entire night.

If the music wasn’t good enough, the view of New York really made the night worthwhile. Being located in Chelsea Arts Tower meant I had unparalleled views of the Hudson River and downtown Manhattan. We were there at the perfect time because we were able to see the skyline in the day, during sunset and at night when it was brightly lit up. There is no place I would rather mix high tea with happy hour!

Now this may seem like an odd concept, but La Marca Prosecco paired shockingly well with the array of high tea sandwiches and Macarons offered, among other foods available to nibble on. I guess that’s to be expected of something made in the Treviso region of Northern Italy and rated 90 points.

While sampling all these delicious flavors, the guests had a chance to win their own high tea service set featuring hand-blown crystal champagne flutes from Tiffany and Co. Even those who didn’t win were given a teacup-inspired gift bag to bring home, which definitely eased the sting. Megan Harlem (winner), whoever you are, I envy you.

Some memorable, sparkling aspects of the evening included the “sparkle bar”, where guests were given the opportunity to create their own wine charms using an assortment of rhinestones and other baubles. My plus one had a great time decorating her bottle with crowns and other designs.

My personal favorite part of the night was without a doubt the selfie stick with flying confetti. Every guest was able to take a picture while someone threw confetti in the air so it looked so much more magical. My plus one and I took a few of them and they were instantly printed, so we had a good laugh looking at them the next day.

Overall, a wonderful night

Special Thanks to Gilt City

Jason Gao 4/6/16 Jason Gao 4/6/16

NYC Beer Festival

Looking for a place to sip on your favorite craft beers while devouring some delicious bar food? Look no further than New York City Craft Beer Festival. This event took place at the historical Lexington Armory; a landmark that fit the bill of an armory with stock piles of weapons and glass framed army uniforms filling the space. On March 25 & 26, the Armory was a battlefield for hundreds of beer thirsty mongers, then their weapon of choice was a two-ounce souvenir glass. Armed with the glass, guests had unlimited access to more than 175 brews from across the country.

A huge perk of being the press is that I was treated like a VIP ticket holder which means that I got to arrive an hour earlier and skip the general admissions line which was wrapped around the block. I highly recommend the VIP tickets for those who are looking to attend this event in the future because they save so much hassle and there is a VIP only section which significantly beats the GA crowd. Once I was settled, and with the all-powerful glass in my hand, I began my own tour into beer heaven.

One thing I learned right off the bat is that you need to have a blueprint to get the most out of a beer tasting. Every vendor you go to will fill your glass up all the way, and I was foolish enough to actually finish them. After about 15 beers, I was feeling kind of full, and realized how big of a mistake that was. Finish only half of your glass, trust me, and do not feel bad because you are there to try as many flavors as possible.

One of my favorite things about the whole experience was definitely the Cocktail Guru Lounge which featured Jonathan Pogash as the Guru serving up cocktails mixed with beer. I tried all four of the “Hop-Tails” and each one of them was delicious. This guy really knew what he was doing.

A funny thing happened at the VIP area which I would feel remiss if I did not share. While I was walking around to each table sampling every beer I could, I happened upon a table with the sign “Free Will”. With a name like that; I had to have a taste. I kindly asked the man behind the counter for a sample, and he replied “I wish I could, but I cannot open the bottle because it’s blocked by a cork”. Ironically, a beer called “Free Will” was not so willing to be tried.

Once I was finished with all the tastes in the VIP area, I went upstairs to sample rest of the pack. At first the lines looked very hectic as this was the general admissions crowd, but honestly, it was not bad at all, rarely did I have to wait more than a minute in any of the lines.

Besides the walls of beer stands, there was also food in this area. They had a number of very interesting beer foods like jerky, and bacon jams, both of which I tried and loved. Remember to bring cash if you want to grab a bite, because most of the food vendors are cash only. Overall, it was a great night of fun, the only thing I do regret is not bringing an extra friend. I had way too many good beers to name. Would I do this festival again? Without a doubt, and I will bring a crowd of people with me next time. Whether you are a casual or avid beer drinker, you will leave the festival much more appreciative of craft beer.

Cheers to the hoppy weekend. Till next time!

Special Thanks to Hand Crafted Tasting Co.

Jason Gao 3/23/16 Jason Gao 3/23/16

STK Midtown 4th Anniversary

What do you get when you combine great music with tasty food? Two words; STK Midtown. Last night, the world-renowned global hospitality company, The One Group, celebrated the 4th anniversary of their primary restaurant brand STK located at Midtown Manhattan. Positioned right below the Grace building, the place can be a little difficult to find. Fortunately, a multitude of people and an illuminated "Happy Anniversary" outside the restaurant received all of its guests.

Upon entering, I was instantly awed by the beautiful décor. The place was elegant and the atmosphere was buzzing to the beat of a live DJ. A beautiful woman dangled in a circus act to entertain the room, and while there was food, drinks, music, I continually found myself glancing at her act. Naturally, I caught myself staring too much and started wandering over towards the bar. The service was understandably delayed due to such a big event. After a few minutes of waiting, I left the line for the bar and went into the press area to find another bar with no line.

The featured White Gold which was very flavorful but a bit too sweet for my taste.

After trying all the specialty cocktails, my favorite was without a doubt the Cucumber Stiletto. The most interesting however, was "...Not Your Daddy's Manhattan" since it was a little embarrassing to order at first, but I give STK a thumbs up for their use of bulleit bourbon on this one.

Of course, STK did not keep the guests on a empty stomach. All night long, mouth watering appetizers were floating around hors d'oeuvres style.

The slides were unquestionably the best plate going around. I had at least 4 of those little things; the taste was savory and the sauce melted in my mouth.

The thrill from the restaurant floor never faded and the place became more of a party atmosphere. People were now dancing to the eclectic tunes of the DJ.

When you come to STK Midtown, you expect great dining, but the whole entertaining aspect of the place will surprisingly delight you. Overall, it was a wonderful night filled with delicious food, fascinating drinks, and the usual chic NYC crowd. STK Midtown is a MUST.

Make Reservation Now

Special Thanks to STK and Amy from Magrino.

Jason Gao 3/21/16 Jason Gao 3/21/16

Matter of Taste Wine Tasting

Imagine being on the 36th floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, overlooking central park and sipping some of the finest wines in the world. Sound like a unlikely scenario? That's exactly what guests got at the Matter of Taste presented by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. With more than 180 wines all of which are rated RP 90 points and higher, I entered into wine heaven.

The wines at this event were carefully selected by esteemed wine advocates including Robert Parker Jr. himself, who is considered one of the world's foremost wine critics. Wines were imported from all over the world but we also had some of the finest from our backyards. I naturally went to all the 100 RP rated wines first, and they were just spectacular. There is an art to wine tasting; I had to see the color and texture of the wine, smell the wine, and then finally taste it.

Of all the wines I tasted, ironically my favorite one was not RP rated 100. I could not get a picture of it, but it was a 2012 Cayuse Vineyards God Only Knows Grenache (RP 96). The Cayuse was a little bit bitter, which is just how I liked my wine.

More and more people were coming into the tasting. It did not surprise me at all how friendly they were after having sipped on wine for few hours.

After trying most all of the wines, I had to slow down and put some food in my system. The tasting took care of that with this amazing spread of cheese and prosciutto. Overall, I really enjoyed the event. It is definitely worth attending if you have not done a wine tasting. I know most people would not taste the difference between a $5 dollar wine and a $5,000 wine, but this event will change the way you see, smell, and taste wine.

To find future tasting or to become a member of eRobertParker.com please visit Matter of Taste

Jason Gao 3/21/16 Jason Gao 3/21/16

Taste of Waldorf Astoria

For the second year in a row, five chef teams went head to head to create the next "iconic" dish. These dishes were tasted by guests and judged by an panel of esteemed judges, including Questlove, Susan Ungaro, David Posey, Adam Sachs, and Wylie Durfresne.

I quickly made my way through all five tables and found each and every one of them to be equally delicious. At first, I was envious of the judges for having the best job in the world, but after tasting the food, I did not want to be them. It would have been impossible for me to pick a favorite as they were all equally amazing.

This dish was prepared by Stefan Kauth, Executive chef from The Roosevelt New Orleans, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel. The shrimp were to die for; I am a huge fan of seafood and Cajun sauce, so I really loved this dish.

This dish was prepared by Sidney Schutte, Excutive chef from Restaurant Librije's Zusje Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, a two Michelin Stars restaurant. The dish looked sophisticated and tasted just as delectable.

This dish was prepared by Itzik Mizrachi Barak, Executive chef from King's Court and Palace Restaurant at Waldorf Jerusalem. It was mouthwatering; I especially enjoyed the garnish with pomegranate seeds.

This was prepared by Bernard Fiemeyer, Executive chef from Waldorf Astoria Orlando. As I professed a love off seafood in the dishes above, you know I loved this dish. The black cod and mussels melted in my mouth and the "Florida Truffles" were just the icing on the cake.

This dish was prepared by Benoit Chargy, Executive chef from Waldorf Astoria Beijing. As much as I love seafood, I love steak even more. This dish was crowned the "iconic dish" by the judges and I definitely agree. The minced Wagyu beef dipped in chinese chili peppers was honestly one of the best dishes I ever tasted.

This event was fine dining at its best. I am so glad I was part of it. I also got to met one of my favorite people on the planet- Questlove.

For more information about future tasting, or recipes to the dishes mentioned above please visit: Taste of Waldorf

Jason Gao 3/17/16 Jason Gao 3/17/16

"The Intern" NY Premiere

*Photo Courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures*

The Premiere took place at Ziegfried Theater with a steep price of $1,500 (luckily I was invited) and included an invitation to the after party at Tavern on the Green. Being a world premiere, all of the heavy hitter stars of came out to show support, Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway included.

There was free popcorn and sodas for everyone, but for $1,500 they should been serving caviar.

While walking around waiting for the screening to start, I noticed someone familiar from the corner of my eye As I got closer, I realized it was Regis Philbin. I had no idea he was 84 years old; he looked really good for that age. Regis was sagacious and very kind, even offering me some of his popcorn.

The stars finally arrived, even Mariah Carey showed up with her billionaire boyfriend.

After all the stars, arrived it was finally time for the screening. This was my first movie premiere so I did not know what to expect. I sat four rows (Yes, I counted...) in front of Robert De Niro. When everyone was seated in the movie theater, someone came out and introduced all the stars. They stood up while everyone cheered on. It was a surreal moment, to be watching a movie with some of the biggest movie stars on the planet.

After the movie, everyone including the stars went into lobby and greeted each other for such a wonderfully done movie.

This was definitely the funniest guy in the movie. You might recognize Zack from the substitute teacher skit from Key and Peele where he played A-a-ron.

Christina played assistant to Anne Hathaway and she was just adorable. I see big things in her future, and I am wishing her the best. I actually sent her this picture on Facebook, and she responded!

My Movie Review: I thought the movie was great, charming, and lots of fun. I really did not expect anything less from Robert and Anne. The pacing and comedic bits between the two of them were well developed for a lighthearted film such as this one. The whole time I was watching the movie, I could not help but think about The Devils Wear Prada. The movie was like a sequel to TDWP with Anne being the boss this time, and Robert changing her perspective on life. Although the movie was not Oscar worthy or anything, it is a fun weekend escape.

Jason Gao 3/17/16 Jason Gao 3/17/16

Out of this World Party

WIRED magazine threw a Star Wars themed party in order to celebrate their December "Star Wars" issue. I was pumped for this event because it took place in the Conde Nast office which is located in One World Trade Center. I had yet to visit the building, let alone attend a party there.

We were greeted with RJD2 spinning away on the set.

In celebration of the new issue, the whole 37th floor was transformed into a photography exhibition by WIRED chief photographer Dan Winters.

Jack and coke and free star wars socks. It was a great night.

Jason Gao 3/17/16 Jason Gao 3/17/16

Force 4 Fashion

In order to promote and celebrate Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Disney and Bloomingdale's joined forces to create Force 4 Fashion. Top fashion designers created many Star Wars inspired outfits to be auctioned off for charity.

The event appropriately took place in Skylight Modern, a space that is typically used for fashion shows and other such events. The entrance with its Star Wars decor was outstanding. We were greeted at the entrance with Champagne, which is always a nice way to start a party.

Force Awakens stars came out to support the event

They did not let the guests go hungry. I did not get a picture, but they also passed around Wagyu steak hor devours style, and having been my first time having wagyu, I gotta say it was delicious.

This is the true definition of squad goals. Overall, the fusion of the Star Wars film and fashion worked out really well. The combination of Star Wars, fashion, and charity is a strong one.

Jason Gao 3/16/16 Jason Gao 3/16/16

Black Tie & Black Jack

The BTBJ Gala was such a fun night that even James Bond would have been envious. Everything you expect from a grand event was made available to the guests. The night consisted of an open bar, hor d'oeurvres, buffet style dinner, open bar, an ample selection of desserts, casino games, silent auction, raffle prizes, photo booth, as well as music and dancing. All the proceeds from the casinos games and auctions were going to benefit Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Every guest was given $15 in chips to start out the evening on the casino games. Being a casual poker player myself, I naturally found myself at the Texas Hold'em table. After an hour of holding and folding them, I found myself down about $100 dollars, and that's when I quit them.

I walked around and checked out the auction, and I saw a beautiful young women with a tiara on her head. I walked up and realized it was Miss New York.

Jamie was such a sweet young lady; we chatted for a few minutes about her journey to become Miss New York. She told me a funny story about how she could not drink for a whole year because it would ruin the Miss NY image.

After endless desserts; came the icing on the cake, literally.

I am so glad I came to this event because it supported a cause that I truly believe in. Last year, someone very close to me in my family passed away from Leukemia. It was the first time I lost someone in my life and it was devastating. Charity events like this one really do save lives, so please do whatever you can to help fight blood cancer.

To go to next years gala or to donate please visit: http://events.lls.org/pages/nyc/btbj2016

Jason Gao 3/15/16 Jason Gao 3/15/16

La Chine VIP Grand Opening

The grand opening of La Chine took place in October 2015 at New York's famous Waldorf Astoria. Waldorf is hoping La Chine will eventually become the city's finest Chinese restaurant. The restaurant should be serving some of the most authentic Chinese food around town. In addition, La Chine offers a raw bar which provides amazing seafood selections including oysters, lobsters, and Tasmanian sea trout. The food is selected and carefully prepared David Garcelon, the Waldorf's culinary director, and executive chef Kong Khai Meng.

I started off by going to the bar and I got a drink appropriately named "Dream", because it was one of the best Sake mixed drinks I have had in a long time. I had around 5 of them by the end of the night. The bartender recognized me and started calling me dream man.

My favorite dish by far was the half Peking Duck. I've eaten a lot of Peking Ducks in my life and this one was comparable to the ones I had in Beijing. The duck meat was so rich and deep in flavor, and the duck sauce was one of the finest I've ever had.

This dish really blew me way. Unlike most Szechuan pepper oil dishes, it was surprisingly not greasy or salty like it would be in most other Chinese restaurants. It's obvious that they used the best ingredients for the intense flavor.

Star Anise and Soy Flavored Foie Gras Cherries

What is there to say except Foie Gras cherries.

The tasting was nothing short of amazing. All the dishes that will be served in the restaurant were served Hors d'oeurve style. I believe I would come back to the restaurant on normal occasions. I definitely recommend checking out the La Chine, although it is on the pricier side.

Photos provided by Astoria Waldorf

Jason Gao 3/15/16 Jason Gao 3/15/16

Harper's BAZAAR Icons NYFW Party

New York Fashion Week always features great parties, and I was honored to be at one of the best ones. One of the most exclusive NYFW events was held at New York City's Plaza Hotel. Hostess Carine Rothfeld definitely knows how to throw a party. It was in celebration of Harper's Bazaar's "Icons" issue, and some of the most powerful people in every industry were in attendance. From fashion to business; and music, everybody who was somebody was present.

You know a party is good; when Katy Perry is performing. Katy debuted beautiful red hair, and had a short set performing five of her biggest hits.

Fashion "it" girls Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid were in attendance to support Carine Roitfeld.

My favorite model Rachel Hilbert was so sweet and obliged to entertain me with this picture. My roommate in college had pictures of her up on his wall, I knew he was crying somewhere.

The @thefatjewish is one of the funniest people on Instagram. This guy was nothing but class, and he has the naturally ability to be a great story teller. Earlier that day, the @thefatjewish had debuted his fashion line "Dad Fashion" and it stood out of from all the other shows due to its diversity of models combined with hilarity. Funny story: after posting this picture on instagram, @thefatjew actually liked it, and I had a spike in likes with over 200 more likes than I would usually receive, including a like from the Huffington Post.

Fashion designer Jason Wu looked like an Asian Gangster. I think we can pass for cousins, or maybe even brothers. I guess he is the more successful Jason in the family.

One of the most talented kid actresses. I was so happy to meet her because I watched her grow up as Sally Draper from Mad Men. She was so humble, and when I introduced myself to her; she went on and did the same. Never change, Sally Draper, never change.

The hostess with the most. A gracious lady with nothing but elegance and grace, and damn she knows how to throw one hell of a party.

This billionaire' and Patriots owner, was a funny man. I made a few jokes about deflate gate and he was totally cool with it. Stay classy Mr.Kraft.

Beautiful party girl Michelle Rodriguez lived up to her reputation and she was already in a different time zone when I met her and took this picture.

Even though I looked like an idiot here, I had to post it, right? I mean, how many chances do you get to meet the hottest model in the world? Exactly.

The night winding down

Overall, probably one of the best nights of my life.

Jason Gao 3/14/16 Jason Gao 3/14/16

Stepping on Anna Wintour's shoes for the Homeless

I want this to be my first entry because it is the event that inspired me to start this website. I remember it just like it was like yesterday. It was the night of the annual God's Love We Deliver gala, a star-studded charity event that pays tribute to an organization that delivers meals to ill and homeless families. The award ceremony was honoring Neil Patrick Patrick for his Outstanding Community Service. After accepting the Michael Kors Awards Neil gave an impeccable speech about how everyone of us should look out for the community. After the show, it was time to mingle with the celebrities. The event was hosted by Michael Kors, so naturally he brought all of his famous friends with him. A-listers included Kate Hudson, Emily Blunt, Diane Kruger, and tons of beautiful models.

**Kate Hudson casually chatting with someone as Emily Blunt looks on. NPH drinking his glass of wine, as Michael Kors chats up with a guest.**

As I squeezed my way through the crowds of photographers and guests, I arrived at the royal VIP table where all the A-listers sat. I was lucky to see NPH and got a quick picture with him.

NPH is just as nice as you would expect him to be. He was a true gentlemen who even told a few jokes before I asked him for the picture. As I looked around frantically wanting to get a picture of the host (MK), I accidentally stepped on someone's shoe and nearly tripped. I turned around; and before I could even say the words "so sorry", my mouth shut in utter disbelief. The person's shoe I stepped on was none other than the fashion icon, Anna Wintour. I panicked, not knowing what to say, and before I could find the words, Anna looked at me and said "don't worry about it honey, have a good night." I was in dismay, the woman that was portrayed by Meryl Streep as a cruel boss in the movie The Devil Wears Prada, was such a sweet woman. After gathering the courage to look at her again, I asked for a picture, and she happily obliged. I hope this does not ruin her cool image, but she is not as mean as people put her out to be.

Oh, I eventually found the host himself.

Emily Blunt and Diane Kruger share a picture

Overall, it was an amazing night of fun and the best part is that it was all for charity. The generous crowd raised over one million dollars for God Loves, We Deliver.

God Loves, We Deliver is a organization that provides nutritious individually-tailored meals to people who are not able to cook or shop for themselves. The organization was founded in 1985 when one woman began delivering food on her bicycle to a man dying from AIDS. Today, the program has grown tremendously and cooks 5,500 meals each weekday, delivering them to clients living with life-altering illnesses in all five boroughs of New York City. All of services and foods delivered are provided free of charge without regard to income.

To find out more about the organization or give a generous donation please visit: God Loves, We Deliever

HOPPR by ABSOLUT Launch Party

Trademark Burger Launch Party

No Kid Hungry Kickoff Party

The Orphaned Starfish Foundation Gala

La Marca Prosecco Tower of Teacups High Tea

NYC Beer Festival

STK Midtown 4th Anniversary

Matter of Taste Wine Tasting

Taste of Waldorf Astoria

"The Intern" NY Premiere

Out of this World Party

Force 4 Fashion

Black Tie & Black Jack

La Chine VIP Grand Opening

Harper's BAZAAR Icons NYFW Party

Stepping on Anna Wintour's shoes for the Homeless

Be a Contributor

Contact Us