Art, Artists and Essence: BRIC'S Annual Gala Celebrates Brooklyn!
On Thursday November 8, BRIC hosted its annual gala in honor of Brooklyn’s artistic community at the Knockdown Center, featuring artist installations, pop-ups, canapés aplenty and dazzling performances.
Photo Credit: Photo by Jordan Rathkopf. Courtesy of BRIC.
BRIC, the largest non-profit presenter of free arts and cultural programming in Brooklyn, aims to present and incubate work by artists and media-makers who reflect the diversity that surrounds us. The gala honored this year’s 2019 recipients of the Colene Brown Art Prize: Manuel Acevedo, Nicole Awai, Xenobia Bailey, Nona Faustine, Alicia Grullón, Baseera Khan, Heidi Lau, Christopher Myers, Judith Simonian, and Kennedy Yanko.
Photo Credit: Photo by Jordan Rathkopf. Courtesy of BRIC.
Photo Credit: Photo by Jordan Rathkopf. Courtesy of BRIC.
The evening opened with drinks and canapés, as guests mingled around the exhibition space, featuring interactive artwork by Cuban-American artist Yara Travieso, a portrait studio by esteemed photographer Barron Claiborne and a pop-up barbershop by Greg Purnell to name but a few. Red, blue, gold, and green streamers framed the night, while giant piañatas waited patiently for guests to tear them apart.
Photo Credit: Photo by Jordan Rathkopf. Courtesy of BRIC.
Viewing art is hungry business so thankfully an energetic yet intimate dinner was next on the menu. From artistically plated Burrata and beets, to Braised Short Rib with Pistachio Asparagus and finally, delectable Red Velvet Cake, to complete a meal of understated decadence. During dinner, BRIC president Kristina Newman-Scott shared during her opening remarks, “this evening was created to honor artists. It was created by Brooklyn, for Brooklyn”. The night was certainly a showcase of the best of Brooklyn’s artistic community!
Notable dinner guests included fashion influencer twins Cipriana Quann and TK Wonder, fashion designer Reuben Reuel of Demestik, celebrity photographer Barron Claiborne, artist Andrea Bergart, art collector Carla Shen, musician Antoniette Costa, artist Renee Cox, and model Ashley Hart, and commissioner of NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Tom Finkelpearl.
Photo Credit: Photo by Jordan Rathkopf. Courtesy of BRIC.
Following dinner, guests continued the festivities and gathered for the gala’s electric after-party, BRIC After Dark, with music from DJ Moma and performative moments by Tendayi Kuumba, Courtney Cook, and Love Muwwakkil of Urban Bush Women. All the exposed brick alcoves of the Knockdown Center were abuzz and filled with dancing, laughing and whispers into the early hours.
BRIC’s 41-year legacy, as a major New York City cultural institution, was celebrated tenfold across the evening, showcasing and honoring vibrant contemporary art, performing arts, and media programs in a fashion only Brooklyn can pull off.
Oscar Wilde Wows with New Head Chef Ali Dey Daly at the Helm.
Oscar Wilde stretches from mere literary feats, to visual and edible feasts at 45 W 27th St, with the addition of new head chef Ali Dey Daly. Award-winning, Tunisian-born Chef Ali innovates the menu with new dishes that match the extravagance and eccentricity of the popular NoMad bar and restaurant, that first opened in 2017.
Endearing energy exuded from all angles at Oscar Wilde.
Combining eclectic styles, from Victorian-influenced dishes and Celtic cuisine, with his classically trained French techniques, Chef Dey Daly introduces revamped menus now available at the longest continuous bar in New York City - do you need anymore reason to pay Oscar a visit?
The Celtic Developers Group Co-Founders, Thomas Burke and Frank McCole, are delighted with Chef Ali’s arrival: “With nearly three decades of culinary training and experience in award-winning, Michelin-star kitchens in Paris, Shanghai and New York, Chef Ali brings a global creative vision to our bar, while maintaining true to what our patrons love the most – delicious comfort fare with locally-sourced produce and ingredients.”
Beef Short Rib Bites
And those three decades of training certainly shine through, as Chef Ali offers seasonal snacks from Maple Glazed Bacon cooked for a staggering 72 hours, to elegant comfort dishes of Beef Tenderloin Cottage Pie topped with White Cheddar Mash to warm the winter cockles.
My personal favorite, Citrus Crab Avocado with Frisée & Toasts, was preceded by the perfect Fall opener, Beef Short Rib Bites; succulent braised beef lollipops, accompanied by autumnal spiced marmalade and paired with an apple and lemon champagne cocktail. Other enticements include, Branzino Filet with Cauliflower in Three Ways, Seared Duck Breast with Butternut Squash Puree, Asparagus and Citrus Sauce and the mouth watering Crémeux chocolat Manjari.
Wilde Whiskey Aplenty!
Born in Tunis, Tunisia, Chef Dey Daly found his passion for gastronomy at the young age of eleven. He studied at the prestigious Culinary School Institut Paul Bocuse in France and worked at the best Tunisian restaurants before heading back to France to fine-tune his talents, working at Alain Ducasse’s three Michelin-star kitchen at the Plaza Athénée in Paris, as well as at its sister property Le Meurice with Yannick Alléno. Chef Dey Daly continued his studies and traveled the world, before working his way up to Executive Chef at Le Cosy Paris near the Champs-Elysée. He also collaborated with the Parisian bakery café, Brioche Dorée, to launch their first three locations in China. In 2015, Chef Ali participated in the Toque d’Or international competition and won first prize.
“I’m thrilled to join the team at Oscar Wilde and bring a new approach to the bar’s menu” said Executive Chef Ali Dey Daly. “Also as a fun fact – during my first trip to New York City, the first bar I visited was coincidentally Oscar Wilde’s sister bar Lillie’s Victorian Establishment in Times Square, so this all comes full circle for me.”
Wilde festivities. Photo Credit: Celtic Developers Group.
Chef Ali proves the infamous Wilde quote true: ‘I can resist everything except temptation.’ Especially with the holidays right around the corner, as Oscar Wilde is widely known to display the most decadent festive decorations of all of NYC bars!
So come relax or get Wilde but remember extravagance is always in season.
NYFW-Inspired Looks For Work
Image credit: Wonderland Magazine
Get ready, sartorialists. New York Fashion Week is upon us once again, which means it’s time to scout the runways for your new fashion forecast.
Each NYFW runway is an event on its own, a spectacle of beautiful clothes and stunning design. One critique that always pops up during this time, however, is the practicality of the garments. NYFW skeptics always retort with this question — when will you even wear such clothes?
The answer isn't as far-off as you might think. If you’re looking to spice up your work uniform, here are some NYFW-inspired ideas that are tried and tested:
The emergence of the short suit
Image credit: Fashionista
Rather than relying on jeans for casual Fridays, why not wear a casual suit? A short-suit combination is this season’s newest trend, especially since you can still wear shorts without feeling like your legs are going to freeze off. Fashionista’s coverage of NYFW street style notes that this ensemble was a particular crowd favorite as people jetted off from one show to another.
Matching your bag and your outfit
Image credit: Vogue
Gone are the days of the multipurpose tote, as NYFW designers are pairing their ensembles with a matching bag. While we all have our favorite tote that takes us practically everywhere, you may want to take a cue from Proenza Schouler and match your black and white suit with a black and white bag. This is the move that will give you serious style points.
All neon everything
Image credit: Editorialist
Sometimes, the best way to experiment with color is to just go for it. Helmut Lang’s highlighter hues show how powerful monochrome dressing can be if you want to stand out. If you’re not ready to go head-to-toe neon just yet, you may want to break up your outfit with a neutral piece. Woman Within’s crisp button downs provide the perfect canvas for a shocking red or pink blazer. They make a sophisticated companion with their collared detail yet still maintains a laid-back vibe. All in all, neutral colors pair best with neon options, as it provides an interesting visual contrast.
Boxier blazers
Image credit: Teen Vogue
Speaking of blazers, boxier styles are now in. Barragan’s show is a case in point, with models sashaying down the runway with heavily padded power shoulders. Boxy blazers are enough to turn heads in any room you walk into, even if you keep your color palette neutral. Shopbop’s plaid blazers are significantly less boxy than Barragan’s, but are nevertheless sophisticated.
Pleats are still in
Image credit: New York Post
Nothing beats the feminine allure of pleated dresses and skirts. Pyer Moss’s pink gown is a modern take on the princess dress of everyone’s dreams, proving that pleats will never go out of style. Carolina Herrera’s red skirt is the perfect power piece for days when you need a little bit of a boost. You can easily pair this with modern loafers for the work day and then swap them out with a kitten heel for a night out.
The beauty of NYFW is that fashion inspiration is brimming everywhere, whether on the runway or on the streets. In fact, there are so many tricks and trends to incorporate that picking just one might be the real challenge.
You’ll Lose Your Head Over Broadway’s New SIX: The Musical
Catherine of Aragon. Anne Boleyn. Jane Seymour. Anne of Cleves. Kathryn Howard. Catherine Parr. The six wives of King Henry VIII will soon be spotlighted on Broadway in SIX: The Musical. The story following the very different tales of these ill-fated Tudor women in a lively pop-genre musical will open March 12, 2020 at the Brook Atkinson Theater with a fierce female cast. This could be the British Hamilton we never knew we needed in our musical loving lives.
The show was discovered in Edinburgh in 2018 by producer Andy Barnes along with Kenny Wax and George Stiles, Wendy & Andy Barnes, and Kevin McCollum. Though, the journey actually started at Cambridge University in 2017 when students Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss wrote the musical about these six historic queens. The show began at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, then moved to Norwich Playhouse and back again to Edinburgh Festival in 2018. It would also go on to earn five Olivier Award nominations including Best New Musical and have a wildly successful American debut in Chicago. Now it’s ready for New York City.
Marlow and Moss in an interview shared how wild the journey has been since they conceived the show at University, saw it thrive at the Fringe and now debut on Broadway. The show is about love and how against all odds people come together and how the women portrayed in the show changed the world. It is a new vocabulary of music for Broadway and there is nothing more exciting than new and emerging talent coming to New York to show their chops. The relevancy for women in the 21st century is an added bonus!
Adrianna Hicks, Andrea Macasaet, Abby Mueller, Brittney Mack, Samantha Pauly, and Anna Uzele will continue to play the roles of the wives, each giving unique character to their…. well characters. The diverse cast has flavor and sass delving into the personality of the wives while inserting their own style. It is an all-female cast including the all-female band “Ladies in Waiting.”
Divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived. Get ready to hear the truth as SIX: The Musical gives a voice to six deserving queens.
Fiesta Gala 2019 Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education
The Plaza Hotel, New York City
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
HONORED
Ambassador Mary Ourisman Dawkins and Brigadier General Peter Dawkins · John Hardy Jewelry · Edgar Legaspi · Juan Montoya
Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education’s annual gala, Fiesta, was held at The Plaza Hotel on October 15, 2019. The evening honored Ambassador Mary Dawkins and Brigadier General Peter Dawkins, John Hardy Jewelry, Edgar Legaspi, and Juan Montoya with the Casita Maria Gold Medals of Honor. The evening’s host was Sissi Fleitas. The award is bestowed to individuals in recognition of their contribution to the worlds of arts, education and philanthropy.
Upon arrival, InvitedNYC was escorted to the famous Grand Ballroom where the festive evening began with cocktails, followed by a dinner dance to the tune of Bob Hardwick’s Latin inspired tunes.
Juan Montoya, Jackie Weld Drake, Ambassador Mary Dawkins, General Peter Dawkins, Edgar Legaspi and Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, PMC/Gonzalo Marroquin
“Casita Maria has been a second home and safe haven for kids and their families for more than 80 years,” introduced host Sissi Fleitas. “It's really a blessing and an honor to serve as executive director of the first and oldest Latino charity in all of New York City,” said Haydee Morales. “Welcome! I am here to be brief and grateful,” said Jackie Weld Drake.
Left: InvitedNYC’s Jodie Lichtenstein Right: Alexa Depesquale (Photo belongs to GettyImage photographer Gonzalo Marroquin W.)
“The Casita Maria enterprise is a remarkable one that for decades has done such wonderful things for this community,” said Pete Dawkins upon receiving his Gold Medal. “I would just like to add my congratulations to the other recipients of this wonderful award,” added Mary Dawkins. “To see such kindness and thoughtfulness at Casita really touched my heart,” said Juan Montoya. “Community and support are the most important things we can nurture. You all are an inspiration.”
Adwoa in John Hardy Jewelry at Casita Maria Fiesta, PMC/Gonzalo Marroquin
Edgar Legaspi, on stage with his family, said, “We believe we have a mission to help people through education. I would like to encourage people to help Casita. It’s not about money, it’s about effort and time.” John Hardy Jewelry’s CEO Kareem Gahed, said, “Thank you from all of the generations of artisans, wax carvers, chain weavers, inspired employees, and passionate leaders at John Hardy.”
Model Adwoa Aboah attended with Gahed. She is the latest face of John Hardy, joining Pénelope Cruz and Julianne Moore. Aboah was adorned with John Hardy’s jewelry.
The Dinner Chairmen were Jacqueline Weld Drake, HRH Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Urban Karlsson, Mary Snow, and Joan Steinberg. Honorary Chairmen were Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Elizabeth Peabody, and Carlos Souza. Past honorees have included Santiago Calatrava, Roberto Cavalli, Agnes Gund, Audrey Hepburn, Carolina Herrera, Daisy Soros, and Lynn Wyatt. Pachanga Chairs co-chairs were Victor Roquette and Sabrina Wirth.
Among the guests were Adwoa Aboah, Liza and Sergio Alvarez, Peter Bacanovic, Tony Bechara and Carolina von Humboldt, Tina and Simon Beriro, Violaine and John Bernbach, Cathie and Tom Black, Mercedes Bograd-Levin, Martha Bograd, Geoffrey Bradfield, Halim Bulos, Lady Liliana Cavendish, Marie de Foucaud and Renaud de Tilly, Their Royal Highnesses Crown Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece and Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece, Susan Gutfreund, Mai Hallingby Harrison, Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Alice Kandell, Eleanora Kennedy, Andrew Kepler, Ann-Hunter Van Kirk, Michèle Gerber Klein, Margo Langenberg, Alicia Lubowski, Mary McFadden, Grace and Chris Meigher, Malu and Sergio Millerman, Ann Nitze, Gautam Patel, Tom Quick, Ann Rapp, Pepita Serrano, Hunt Slonem, Benny Tabatabai, Ted Taylor, Barbara and Donald Tober, Monica and Ali Wambold, Daniela Wambold, Marina Wambold, and Maria Celis Wirth.
Fiesta is arguably the best party in New York. It attracts a glamorous international crowd for a lively evening that is light on speeches and great fun, all in the service of our serious purpose. Much of the operating budget of the organization is raised at the event.
About The Honorees:
Ambassador Mary Ourisman Dawkins
Ambassador Mary Ourisman Dawkins served as U.S. Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, a total of seven countries simultaneously. She is a longtime supporter of the arts, along with community involvement, as well as a supporter of the R.N.C. and the Republican Governors’ Association. She was appointed by President George W. Bush as a Trustee of the Kennedy Center, and is a founding member and co-chair of the International Committee of the Arts. She has served on numerous arts boards including the Washington National Opera, American Ballet Theater, and the Smithsonian Institution. All this in addition to her work on behalf of The American Red Cross as past Chair of the Red Cross, and the Prince of Wales Foundation, Friends of the Uffizi, and many others. She continues her philanthropic and artistic interests in Palm Beach where she spends the winter, as a member of the Preservation Society, Four Arts, and the Palm Beach Civic Association.
Brigadier General Peter Dawkins
Pete Dawkins is a senior advisor to Virtu Financial. At West Point, he was President of the Class of 1959, Captain of Army’s undefeated football team. An all-American halfback, he won the Heisman Trophy and was selected as a Rhodes Scholar. Pete remains active in a variety of national, financial, community and philanthropic roles, serving on the board of the Wharton Business School’s Center for Leadership and Change Management and the Intrepid Museum. Time magazine identified Pete as one of the “Top 50 Leaders in the U.S.”
John Hardy Jewelry
Inspired by Bali and its time-honored jewelry-making traditions, John Hardy’s artisan collective was founded in 1975 with a dedication to handcrafted jewelry. John Hardy Jewelry is committed to sustainable luxury business practices, their craftspeople and the preservation of Bali. They pride themselves on the value of authenticity; it is the soul of community that makes each piece truly one of a kind.
Edgar Legaspi
Edgar Legaspi is a Partner and Head of Coverage for Mexico, Latin America and Spain at BDT & Company. He also serves on the Investment Committee for BDT Capital Partners. Edgar has more than 25 years of investment banking and principal investment experience. Prior to joining BDT, Edgar ran Morgan Stanley’s Principal Investments Latin American group. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Edgar was a Managing Director at Credit Suisse and CEO of Credit Suisse First Boston, Mexico. Edgar also was a General Partner and Managing Director at Lazard Frères & Co. Edgar is a director of Casa Dragones.Edgar is a trustee of the Gabriela Legaspi Foundation and the Alianza Medica Foundation. Edgar received an MsC from Northwestern University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University Of Pennsylvania.
Joan Montoya
Juan Montoya is one of the most acclaimed and prolific interior designers in the world today. Juan Montoya was born and spent his early years in Colombia. After studying architecture in Bogotá, he moved to New York where he graduated from Parsons School of Design. Following two years of work and study in Paris and Milan, he returned to New York, where he founded the design business he has presided over since. His firm specializes in residential and contract interior design, with projects located throughout the United States and Internationally. A member of the Interior Design Hall of Fame, a recipient of an honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from Parsons School of Design, A Doctorate from New York School of Interior Design, Star of Design Award, and the Legends Award from Pratt Institute. His contributions to the field of interior design are widely recognized. He is also included in AD100 since its inaugural list, AD Collector (France) top 100, AD 30 Deans of Design and a Grand Master on Elle Decor's A-list.
A truly original thinker, Juan Montoya is not wedded to a particular style or period. Initially labeled a minimalist, his work has evolved dramatically since he first came to the public's attention. The great diversity found in Juan Montoya’s work notwithstanding, it is possible to trace elements that constitute the Montoya look in all his interiors. The exquisite juxtaposition of textures, colors and volumes, together with thoughtful attention to shadows, scale and spatial quality, resulting in interiors that exude refinement and elegant simplicity. Through the careful placement of objects, that often reflect his interest in a variety of cultures, Montoya enhances the qualities of a room or of an entire apartment or house.
Host, Sissi Fleitas
Sissi Fleitas is a prominent model, presenter and actress best known for her work on “Sabado Gigante.” She has appeared in the telenovela “Los Secretos de Lucia” and various films across Latin America.
About Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education
Casita Maria, the oldest Latin charity in New York City, provides high-quality, innovative arts programming to over 1,000 students daily both during and after school, producing participatory, well-rounded individuals who go on to fulfill their dreams. Located in the country’s poorest zip code, the South Bronx, Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education creates a safe and welcoming community, enriching and uplifting youth and families towards success, through shared cultural, art and educational experiences and programs.
The 13th Annual Food Film Festival
There is no delicacy better than having flavorful food served to you while watching films about what it is you’re eating. As they say in the art world, you have to know the history of what you’re looking at, in order to understand the piece. The same goes for food. You appreciate it all the more once you know the backstory of the chef and restaurant. The Food Film Festival provides you with that irreplaceable experience.
Upon arrival at AMC Empire 25, VIP guests were shown to the pre-party room, where doors opened at 6:15. The room was detailed with dishes, all prepared by Chef Stephen Yen. As each plate was thoughtfully placed, it enriched the atmosphere of the room, along with the drinks that were served by The Shanty and New York Distilling Company. The food and beverages served at the pre-party represented the diverse neighborhoods that inhabit New York, from lox bagels and roasted nuts to hot dogs, and kimchi fried rice, along with cocktails, wine, and beer. This prelude excited guests, leaving them in cheerful anticipation for what the theater had in store for them.
Afterwards, all GA & VIP guests took their seats, George Motz, Festival Director and co-founder said a few words and then the first film began.
The first film was about Lagunitas Brewery which quenched the guests thirst with Lagunitas IPA. It was the first of seven items to be passed down the rows for all to try. The second film, directed by Liza Mosquito deGuia, featured Erik Ramirez, a chef of a modern Peruvian restaurant. Many of his dishes were showcased, however, when the Tuna ceviche appeared on screen, it appeared in front of the audience as well. This dish filled your mouth with a savory flavor. The third film excited the audience as it centered on a more specialized type of cooking: bugs. While Chef Joseph Yoon spoke about his passion for bugs in the film, everyone else was sitting on the edge of their seats waiting to try the cricket-crusted fried chicken.
The Food Film Festival is such a riveting event that not one but two restaurants revived just for it. The first was Gyro II, which festival co-founder, George Motz, actually directed the film for. The second was Ramen Shack. In between the gyro meat with the famous white sauce being served from Gyro II, and ramen broth from Ramen Shack, carnitas con queso with braised chicken was served. The significant piece in what may seem like a typical carnita is the Piaxtla tortilla. The brothers who now own the company have a family history going back to their father who used to be a driver for the tortilla factory. The concluding dish was a sweet treat: an Indonesian style coconut pancake. The film focuses on their stand that sells this authentic cuisine and how it’s making was due to the lack of its prominence here.
After the films came to an end, the night went on in what was the original VIP party room and the outside terrace. There was a surplus of dishes that were extensions of the Chefs, restaurants, and factories menus shown in the films. With each bite that the attendees took, the food left everyone with radiating smiles.
Areppas Opened its Third Location in NYC, to the Delight of Downtowners
This Wednesday, October 23rd, Areppas, specializing in Venezuelan street food, opened its downtown location in Soho, at 25 Cleveland Place.
Areppas Soho.
Areppas’ third brick-and-mortar eatery, brought to you by husband and wife duo Celestino Diaz and Brooke Carrie Hil, offers fresh, wholesome dishes, which focus on quality artisan grains, punchy proteins and strong seasonal ingredients.
Assorted fillings.
Assorted protein fillings.
Areppas caters to vegans, vegetarians and carnivores with bowls, salads, empanadas, and of course. arepas. If patrons are feeling adventurous, they can custom build their own dishes with the abundance of fillings on offer.
Interior of Areppas Soho.
The new Soho location is 1,000 square feet inside with 16 seats and has plans to open a 1,500 square foot outdoor courtyard next spring. The interior matches the food; casual, colorful and comforting.
Areppas is a fast-growing, fast-casual concept that has a flagship location at 954 3rd Avenue, and recently opened a second eatery in Gramercy at 115 East 23rd Street last month. The eatery aims to introduce fresh, tasty, and cost-effective Latin-based options to the New York City market.
Downtown Arepas.
Keeping in the spirit of the new location, I ordered the Downtown Arepas, filled with melt-in-the mouth short rib and a generous helping of de mano cheese. Other delicious options include the aptly named The Queen, filled with tender shredded chicken, avocado, cilantro and lime and cheese empanadas, which are gooey perfection!
Assorted bowl.
From the Vegan Bowl, with sweet plantains and black beans, to the Pork Supreme Bowl packed full with slowly roasted pork tenderloin, pico de gallo and bean salad, you are sure to find something to your taste. At Areppas, less formal certainly doesn’t mean less flavor!
Areppas new Soho location is open Monday-Sunday 11am-11pm. For more information please visit, Areppas.com.
Photos courtesy of Areppas
Taste of the Seaport 2019
Downtown’s premier food festival, Taste of the Seaport, returned for the 10th year for a day filled with food, fun and fundraising on Saturday, October 19th at Pier 16 and 17 in the Seaport District of New York City. A record number of 15,000 attendees turned out to Taste of the Seaport to sample over 40 of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan alongside an array of local vendors, artisans, entertainers and family friendly activities, making it the perfect day out for children and adults alike. The event was followed for the first time by a fun-filled Front Street Block Party to keep the party going.
An eclectic mix of the best food and beverage retailers and brands came together at Taste of the Seaport highlighting one of the city’s fastest growing neighborhoods and its vibrant restaurant scene. Food lovers explored a variety of culinary options from the Seaport and Financial District and purchased delicious tastes from The Fulton, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Hole in the Wall, Barbalu, Fresh Salt, Financier, Cowgirl Seahorse, Taco Playa, The Fulton, 10 Corso Como Restaurant & Café, Cobble & Co, Malibu Farm, R17 and Suteishi to name a few. Guests also got the opportunity to relax in the Pier Bar with wine, beer and soda. Live musical performances occurred on the main stage throughout the afternoon and children of all ages had a blast participating in family-friendly activities at the festival’s KidsZone, presented by New York-Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital.
The annual event raised much needed funds for the arts and enrichment programs at Public School 397 (The Spruce Street School) and Public School 343 (The Peck Slip School) and was sponsored by The Howard Hughes Corporation, the leading real-estate developer working to revitalize the Seaport District after Hurricane Sandy, the South Street Seaport Museum, New York Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital, Basil Hayden, Olivia’s Organics, White Claw, the Old Seaport Alliance and the Downtown Alliance.
For more information, please visit http://www.tasteoftheseaport.org
Photos by Taste of Seaport
enCourage Kids Hosts Annual Star-Studded Fundraiser Serving Up Smiles
The enCourage Kids Foundation hosted their Serving Up Smiles premier tasting event on October 22nd with over 300 plus guests supporting the cause at CURRENT in Chelsea Piers. Top chefs from incredible NYC restaurants along with world-class wines, cocktails and music by Live Wire Entertainment made the event one for the books.
Since its inception in 1985, enCourage Kids Foundation has helped humanize healthcare for children and their families by resourcing impact-driven pediatric programs and supporting the Child Life Community. The organization has served more than one million children annually and focuses on making hospitals an easier place for children to get better with programs that offer relief from the constant burden of treatment, hospital stays, and doctor appointments, while also helping pediatric facilities to meet the unique needs of their patients.
Michele Hall Duncan, President & CEO enCourage Kids Foundation, has deep knowledge of the nonprofit and development world and leads the organization in developing varied Programs and overseeing the growth of the Pediatric Hospital Support Program. She shared “This is a special night and the type of event I would want to attend as a guest. You meet and mingle while learning about one of the best organizations in the world (enCourage Kids Foundation) and get to eat the best food. It’s about helping kids and their families. Family care is crucial because when the entire family is involved, it helps children recover more quickly.”
An example of the impact that enCourage Kids Foundation has had here in New York City is at Mount Sinai. Diane Rode, Director of Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Dept at the medical center shared that hospitalization is traumatic for children of all ages and in order to ease the suffering they use play and creative arts, including a state-of-the-art Broadcast Studio that hosts celebrities and cooking segments among other programming. With the studio, children in isolation get the chance to freely and safely interact with others. This studio has been funded for 14 years by enCourage Kids Foundation and for 20 years the foundation has been the hospital’s largest donor. They raise money through this event, and it pipelines straight into these childhood departments.
Supported at this event was also Camp Pontiac, a weekend in Copake, New York where enCourage Kids can get away to do arts and crafts, swimming, sports, games and most importantly be normal kids. There is no uneasiness that families often have in public with their children and the they can all breathe a bit easier in the fresh air.
Money is raised by guests passionate about the cause and excited to eat delicious cuisine. Participating restaurants and chefs included BAGATELLE (Guillaume Ginther, Executive Chef), BEAUTY & ESSEX (Jamie Sudberg, Executive Pastry Chef), BEN & JACK’S STEAKHOUSE (Admir Alibasic, Executive Chef), BRYANT PARK GRILL (Anne-Marie Noonan, Pastry Chef), BUTTER (Michael Jenkins, Chef de Cuisine), DANNY MACAROONS (Dan Cohen, Baker), HOTEL CHOCOLAT, LAMIA’S FISH MARKET (Lamia Funti, Executive Chef & Owner), LEGASEA (Jason Hall, Executive Chef), OCEAN PRIME (Eugenio Reyes, Executive Chef), OSTERIA MORINI (Andrew Minitelli, Chef de Cuisine), ROBERT (Gonzalo Colin, Executive Chef) SERENDIPITY 3, SFOGLIA (Melisa Panchano, Executive Chef) and TAO GROUP (Ralph Scamardella, Chef & Partner).
The Purple Carpet was packed with celebrity chefs, athletes such as John Starks (Former NY Knicks All-Star), Brent QVale (NY Jets Offensive Tackle), Tony Richardson (NFL Legend & Sports Commentator), Luke Petitgout (Former NY Giants Offensive Tackle) and actors Frankie Smith (Roots/Black & Blue), Suzzanne Douglas (Actress) and DeeMo (Actor/Singer/Songwriter), to name a few. Scott Stanford (Sports/News Anchor) was the emcee for the evening joined by culinary chair Ralph Scamardella, Chef & Partner TAO Group.
It's never too late to make a donation and support the enCourage Kids Foundation.
Marchesi di Barolo 90th Anniversary at TAK Room
I was honored to spend a delightful evening celebrating the Abbona family’s 90th Anniversary of owning their winery, Marchesi di Barolo, at Thomas Keller’s newly opened Hudson Yards restaurant TAK Room. The luxurious venue, offering stunning views over the city including the Vessel landmark, was ideal for an evening of exquisite wine tasting and Continental cuisine.
Valentina Abbona, now head of the winery, and her mother Anna introduced us to the history of their estate, with strong pride in their history and tradition. The Marchesi Di Barolo wine is referred to as “the king of wines and wine of kings” due to a French Noblewoman in the early 1800’s, Juliette Colbert de Maulévrier, being the first to see potential in the wine made in Barolo, sending barrels to the Italian king. The wine was praised for its unique power, elegance and strength. The Abbona family eventually were able to acquire the lands of the winery after Juliette’s death, starting a legacy of years of hard work aiming to enrich the traditions of the winery, in memory of Juliette’s techniques, with knowledge passed from parent to child combined with modern advancements across over five generations. The family’s commitment to continual hard work has been paramount to the high standards of the winery.
Anna and Valentina Abbona
We were served a range of flavorful wines throughout the evening, with Valentina explaining how their production varied. Despite being from different years, vineyards, and using methods of production, Valentina emphasised how all the wines had “the same soul.” A table favourite was the Sarmassa 2014, with a colorful dark and fruity taste that had a bit of fight in it to release its expressions gradually, which Valentina explained was due to the grapes being from a single vineyard that grew in the tougher conditions of rocky soil. Another favourite, the Barolo 2014 offered a different sharp and immediate taste, with its grapes being sourced from a blend of vineyards on the estate.
The wine paired beautifully with food from the TAK Room menu. First starters were served of fresh bread, “Super Chilled Iceberg Salad” with applewood smoked bacon and marinated tomatoes drizzled in Maytag blue cheese, followed by hand cut steak tartare. The main dish was “True Ribeye Steak” with spinach and buttermilk whipped potato. Each bite of the steak was like experiencing the delicious flavours for this first time, richly complemented by the deep and fruity tones of the wine. Dessert included an elegant “Dark Chocolate Layer Cake” and home-made caramelised popcorn.
For a range of exquisite wine options, try Marchesi di Barolo and discover more about the famed winery here. Also make sure to visit TAK Room at 20 Hudson Yards 5th floor, 10001, to enjoy a large menu of carefully made, delectable food in a timelessly elegant and luxurious setting.
Barano: Italian Dining At Its Best
Barano, an Italian restaurant located in Williamsburg, is an endearing eatery that provides you with a modern rustic scenery. The atmosphere of Barano engulfs you in a warmth that transports you to feel as though you are at an enchanting Italian villa.
From beginning to end of your dining experience here, there is a reinvented take on traditional Italian cuisine, opening your palate to customary dishes with a specialized twist and flawless presentation. When eating, it is rare to find food that tastes delicious and is presented well, but at Barano there is no need to settle for one or the other.
The eccentric cocktail names and savory meals ensure a memorable experience that everyone desires, whether you’re a local or tourist. One of the most captivating aspects were the names of the drinks on the menu. Although you may never find yourself in a situation where you’d say, “ I’ll do a living in a van down by the river and a schwing please”, but, after having a sip of the drinks, it’ll be your new favorite sentence.
Their menu offers food that accommodates all audiences, whether you’re pescatarian, vegetarian, or gluten free. Options range from steak, fish, pasta and chicken. When going out with friends, and especially large groups, finding a menu that suits everyones’ needs can be a daunting task, but Barano eliminates that stress.
The antipasta listed a variety of options that were impossible to go wrong with. The octopus was not only a favorite due to flavor, but its beautiful presentation will make you hesitate to dig in. The house bread was paired with chickpea puree + basil pesto, which if you never knew you needed it before, now you do. Not to mention, once you start eating their house made stracciatella you’ll never be able to stop.
The main courses continue to exceed expectations. It is ensured to leave with a happy and full stomach. After a meal, a desert is always desired but never something that will leave you overwhelmingly full. Barano’s dessert menu offers light options to end the dining experience with a sweet that tops off the meal.
The food and cocktails reverberate the atmosphere in every bite and sip. This restaurant brings with it not only quality food but a quality experience.
A sparkling night – Celebrating Pol Roger Champagne
On October 15th, 2019, guests were invited to a very special evening, the celebration of Pol Roger Champagne. The cocktail reception and dinner was hosted by Hubert de Billy, 5th generation heir to one of the most popular champagne brands in the world.
The event took place at the One Hotel Brooklyn Bridge where even well-travelled guests were visibly impressed with the extraordinary views and setting. Upon entering the rooftop, everybody was provided with a glass of sparkling champagne which guaranteed that guests could enjoy the setting with a more than appropriate aperitif.
This aperitif was then followed by a very elaborate dinner served in an intimate setting in a private room inside the hotel’s restaurant. While the spotlight of the night was clearly taken by the various courses of delicious Pol Roger that were paired with each dinner course, the food didn’t fail to impress either.
Already the expansive cheese platter with season-appropriate pumpkin brioche, served as arrival course, didn’t fail to exceed expectations. The following varieties of meat, salmon, pappardelle and vegetable plates were only topped by the desert course which came in the form of a complex symphony of citrus cheesecake, deconstructed campfire s’mores and sticky toffee pudding.
Another highlight of the night was provided by Hubert de Billy himself who told various engaging stories about the history and evolution of Pol Roger. Many of those were, as expected, centered around Winston Churchill who was arguably the first and most vocal advocate of Pol Roger. According to Churchill, Pol Roger is “the world’s most drinkable address” which also led to the champagne brand being featured in the movie Darkest Hour.
However, even after Churchill’s death, Pol Roger is still celebrated by various English political figures. Accordingly, Pol Roger Brut Reserve Non Vintage was supplied at both Prince Harry and Prince William’s wedding receptions, and Pol Roger is one of the only houses to be appointed as an official supplier to the Royal family.
Hubert de Billy also emphasized the deep connection between Pol Roger and Brooklyn Bridge that particularly raised attention since the discovery of 27 Pol Roger bottles that survived time and the fatal collapse of the Brooklyn Bridge vault in 1900. The vault is closed to the public since 2001 but photos still clearly show the Pol Roger logo inside the facilities.
In the future, the champagne brand expects even more growth and international recognition which, judging from this first-hand taste, shouldn’t pose any difficulties.
Photos courtesy of Pol Roger
Ten Hope opens in Williamsburg with Top Chef winner Harold Dieterle
On Wednesday, October 17th, Ten Hope, a charming pan-Mediterranean restaurant, with Top Chef winner and consulting chef Harold Dieterle, opened its doors at 10 Hope Street in Williamsburg.
Top Chef winner and consulting chef Harold Dieterle at the helm in the kitchen. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Taking influence from Greek, Italian, Spanish and Moroccan flavors, Ten Hope offers dishes that range from traditional Seared Halloumi Salad and Kofta Burgers to Crispy Octopus and shareable platters with an array of different dips and vegetables.
Crispy Octopus with Chorizo, wax beans, pickled eggplant and nigella aioli. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Vegetable Crudités. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Ten Hope offers exciting, expertly-crafted cocktails, such as the aptly named rum based Comfortably Numb, bursting with notes of Thai basil and black pepper or the not-so-subtle Royal Half, with Bourdon, blood orange and ginger. The innovative, fun and fizzy Hopeful Sodas, house-made spiked seltzers, infused with Hibiscus Vodka, Grapefruit Tequila, and Earl Grey Gin, are definite winners in a world of White Claw shortages. In addition with Champagne, Wine and Beer, Ten Hope’s fully stocked bar will not disappoint.
Collection of cocktails and drinks offered at Ten Hope. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Outside, a vine-laced, dimly-lit 2,500 square-foot patio provides generous seating, and serves as a beautiful entryway to the restaurant’s mod-interior, a space for up to a hundred guests. Whether it’s a late night drink date, dinner with friends and family or a long afternoon on the weekend, Ten Hope is the perfect spot to bring people together: a living room, dining room, and patio for locals to call home throughout the seasons.
Sun-drenched outdoor patio with ample seating and a relaxed ambiance. Photo Credit - Oleg March
Other highlights from the menu include Roasted Carrots with Squid Ink Ricotta, Chicken Cooked Under a Brick and my favorite, crispy, cumin coated Lamb Ribs which brought a whole new magical meaning to what lamb can be.
Ten Hope, at 10 Hope Street in Williamsburg. Photo Credit - Oleg March
To spice things up further, Ten Hope’s owner, restaurateur and music event producer Bill Zafiros is marrying his two passions by bringing a weekly Tuesday series of live music, dubbed Studio Sessions, which will showcase NYC’s newest talents and sounds.
Overall, Ten Hope certainly impresses, resulting in excellent food with an authentic Mediterranean flare, in a warm, contemporary environment.
Fornino Pizza
Weaving my way through the heart of the bustling neighbourhood of Greenpoint, Brooklyn, I soon arrived at Fornino, a true treasure trove of a pizzeria. Upon entering, we were greeted at a bar space buzzing with chatter. The rustic tones of brick and wood were brightened with warm lighting, setting the fun and relaxed mood for the evening as we were shown to the cozy table area past the bar.
We sipped on elegant Strawberry Lemonade Hibiscus Ice Tea as we browsed the seemingly endless choices of pizza which progressed through “generations.” The “first generation” selections included more simple choices such as Marghertia Classica and Marinara. The “second generation” began to include more creative combinations such as the Cosenza adorned with n’duja, butternut squash, stracciatella, oregano and spicy honey.
The “third generation” pizzas were the most inventive, with topping selections that I thought one could only dream of having on pizza. After much deliberation, we selected a new addition to the menu, the Zucchini e pesto which included zucchini, mozzarella, goat cheese, mint pesto and Fresno chilli for an extra kick, along with the Funghi e prosciutto which had shiitake mushroom, prosciutto, mozzarella, tomato, fontina and pecorino. Options for gluten free and vegan substitutes were available, as well as a range of lavish salads and Antipizza.
Due to the smaller size of the restaurant, the atmosphere was intimate and amicable, with the staff providing incredibly friendly and efficient attention to each and every patron. The pizza arrived shortly, presented on a stand ideal for sharing onto separate plates.
I’d never seen pizza that looked so irresistibly inviting and was torn between which to try first, eventually taking a slice of the Funghi e prosciutto. The balance of each ingredient was perfect, with the dough being the ideal consistency so as to enhance rather than overpower the taste of each topping. The Zucchini e pesto was delightfully light and refreshing with the combination of mint pesto and chilli really awakening the taste buds.
Of course, there was still room for dessert with a range of ice cream sundaes available. We chose the Brownie Sundae for Two, quickly devouring the exquisite mountain of warm brownie topped with chocolate ice cream, whipped cream, salted caramel, and chocolate sauce dusted in powdered sugar.
Be sure to visit Fornino’s at 849 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn 11222 to taste some truly scrumptious and inventive pizza with a setup and atmosphere ideal for socialising and sharing. Fornino offers a brunch pizza menu, lunch specials, and a main dinner menu; or if you fancy a night in try their take-out and delivery options!
WONÁ Bridal Showroom Opening
“The WONÁ woman loves a luxurious lifestyle and would never be associated with a cliché. She is uncompromisingly flawless, aware of current fashion trends, and would only wear the best quality dresses”
WONÁ, a bridal and luxury fashion label from the Ukraine, kicked off New York Bridal Fashion Week with the opening of their first flagship store-showroom in NYC to exhibit their exquisite Fall 2020 collection. Guests were welcomed to view the wide range of intricately made dresses in an elegant showroom, accompanied by hors d'oeuvres from Laudrée, champagne, and photo opps in front of an elegant floral wall installation.
WONÁ, meaning “she” in Ukrainian, are committed to making the perfect dress for their client, with the goal of emphasising each woman’s uniqueness through the creation of a dress that can highlight individuality. The hand-made dresses varied greatly in style with different arrangements of lace, beading, feathers, sequins and embroidery. The staff explained the variety of customisable details such as color choices to compliment the skin tone of the bride, a large size range, and features such as detachable sleeves, skirts and capes to allow the bride to achieve different looks with the same stunning dress on her big day.
Four collections are released annually by WONÁ. The first is WONÁ Couture which “unites dream and design, lace and decor.” WONÁ White “combines classic patterns and bold styling with a variety of lace and decor” producing a luxurious and sophisticated dress that is still practical to wear. WONÁ evening contains more colourful dresses with quality fabrics fitting for events from red carpet to debutante balls. The final collection, WONÁ Cruise, blends light fabrics with delicate lace to create “luxurious and provocative” dresses. Progressions in current trends remain central to the creation of each collection.
The dedication of the staff at WONÁ to the brand values of seeing women as muses and aiming to create dresses that allow coexistence of both practicality and the brides most extravagant desires was clear, proving WONÁ to be an exciting choice for women looking for bold and beautiful masterpiece dresses that can be personalised to accentuate their own unique character and preferences.
Photos by WONA
Food and Fun at Maker's Mark(et): A Taste of Old New York
On Thursday, October 10th, Maker’s Mark completely took over the new Essex Market in NYC’s Lower Eastside. Maker’s Mark wanted to give back to New Yorkers because the Wall Street Journal put them on the front page when they were just starting out, which contributed to their popularity. New Yorkers were invited to Maker’s Mark(et): A Taste of Old New York, where they got to taste Essex Market’s delicious food stands with Maker’s Mark cocktails in hand. Guests got to choose three perfectly crafted Maker’s cocktails, and then pair them with food from the food stands.
Maker’s Mark(et) was held at the new Essex Market, which is located in the Lower East
Maker’s provided signs next to each bartender that described the drink they were serving and what food it paired well with (this was extremely useful for people like me who just turned 21 and know nothing about whiskey!) My personal favorite was the Second Avenue Penicillin cocktail, which I paired with a savory empanada from the Dominican Cravings food stand and chicken tacos from the Puebla Mexican Food stand. The drink also paired well with Cafe D’Avignon’s outstanding banana chocolate chip bread.
The event was a great way to celebrate Maker’s Mark, as well as support a very important cause. All proceeds from the event benefited the United by Blue company, which is an outdoor clothing brand focused on ocean conservation, and for every ticket purchased, three pounds of trash will be removed from waterways. Guests also left the event with a new reusable copper mug (perfect for Moscow mules) and reusable straws to help guests decrease their plastic usage. I left this event absolutely stuffed, and a new fan of Maker’s Mark bourbon!
Cafe D’Avignon provided pastries and cookies for the event.
Drink pictured: Second Avenue Penicillin
Janel Tanna’s Resident Magazine Cover Party
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Indie Film Queen, Janel Tanna, illuminated the room as she celebrated her Resident Magazine Cover in New York City at Philippe Chow. Guests gathered in joyous celebration at her launch party for the Summer 2019 Entertainment Issue. A woman of many talents -actress, model, producer, and MD- looked vibrant in a floor length black gown designed by Aya Aygul.
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Janel’s humbling attitude warmed the room as she gave a speech thanking all those who attended in honor of her and her accomplishment. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres such as Lychee Martinis and vegetable dumplings fueled conversation that filled the room between old friends and new ones. Whether the chatter was shared between previous acquaintances or blossoming friendships, what everyone had in common was that they were there for Janel. She also spent the warm summer months being deemed “Best Actress” at the East Hampton TV Festival. Her talent received the same well-earned praise at Northeast Film Festival.
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Not only does she have a glowing personality but looks as well, as she made Maxim's Hot 100 list. The venue’s atmosphere complemented the launch party perfectly as it was both intimate and lively, mirroring the mood of the event. Tables were sprawled about with Resident Magazine’s and Janel on the cover. This detail was a touch that allowed guests a first-hand glance and even more personal experience with the magazine and Janel. It was truly the perfect way to integrate people with the party as it sparked conversation and allowed everyone to flip through the content.
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan)
Some highlighted guests include: Peter Thomas Roth, R. Couri Hay, Violetta Malakhova, Nicole Noonan, Designer Iya Islamova, Photographer Udo Spreitzenbarth, Nancy Chemtob, Sofia Symonds and American Hip-Hop Artist, Consequence. Janel Tanna’s Resident Magazine Cover Party was a night to remember shedding spotlight on a woman of true talent.
The Glass Menagerie by the Wild Project
“I have tricks in my pocket—I have things up my sleeve—but I am the opposite of a stage magician. He gives you illusion that has the appearance of truth. I give you truth in the pleasant disguise of illusion”
With these opening lines, the audience is drawn into a dimly lit world of memory, where the truth of arduous family interactions are presented through an eerie dream.
The Wild Project welcomes the Halloween season this year with a disquieting new version of The Glass Menagerie. Ruth Stage presents the Tennessee Williams classic in a chilling, surrealistic and dreamlike world. Directors Austin Pendleton and Peter Bloch, following two critically acclaimed runs of The Wars of the Roses, direct this production which explores the notions of memory and fractured family relationships as Tom (Matt de Rogatis) relives his time in the Wingfield’s St Louis apartment, 1939, with his overbearing mother (Ginger Grace) and mentally fragile sister (Alexandra Rose).
Matt De Rogatis (who also played “Richard III” in The Wars of the Roses), effectively conveys Tom’s repressed torment and frustration under the burden of supporting an unappreciative family, as well as bringing to life Tom’s comedic and poetic sides. Ginger Grace brings to the stage an officious yet whimsical Amanda, who, through an intriguingly soft-spoken voice, becomes increasingly obsessed with her son’s every move, with finding her daughter a “gentleman caller,” and recollecting her past life as a Southern belle. And, in her professional theater debut as Laura, actress Alexandra Rose manages to capture the empathy of the audience with her vivid portrayal of the character’s utter lack of self-confidence. Spencer Scott plays a deceivingly charming Jim O’Conner whom the audience hope, as the long awaited gentleman caller, will save the Wingfield’s from their disastrous downwards spiral.
Set designer Jessie Bonaventure (assistant set designer on Hadestown) presents the Wingfield house through the lens of a nightmare, with grey furniture reminiscent of a haunted house, juxtaposed to Laura’s delicate collection of glass animals -- ever-present on stage. The element of the surreal and nightmare is further incorporated by the enormous black and white photo of the fifth character in the play, Tom and Laura’s father and Amanda’s husband, “a telephone man who fell in love with long distance” whose image grins almost grotesquely throughout. His absence is ominously ingrained in the minds of the audience just as it is in the characters. Steven Wolf creates the complementary dim lighting throughout and an entrancing candlelight scene between Laura and Jim in which the shadows of dread pervade the hints of romance.
Sean Haggerty writes the score taking inspiration from The Exorcist soundtrack to create a few moments of chilling suspense in collaboration with Jesse Meckl designing the sound.
There were moments when it seemed that opportunities to immerse more in the genre of horror and suspense were missed, when eeriness would build but then the path back towards naturalism was too abruptly taken. Nevertheless, the Wild Project brings a compelling take on the classic production whilst staying true to the perceptions of Williams, and manages to explore how surrealism and the nightmare form relate to how we may recreate and relive painful memories in our minds.
Tickets for this limited engagement run up to October 20th are available at Brown Paper Tickets at 1-800-838-300 or at www.theglassmenagerieplay.com
Photos provided by the Wild Project
TOP OCTOBER NYC EVENTS
NYCWFF is considered the largest wine and food festival in New York City with more than 100 events and widely recognized for its tastings in celebration of America’s favorite foods, intimate dinners with world-renowned chefs, late night parties, hands-on classes, educational seminars, wine tastings and more. Over 50,000 passionate gourmands and aficionados sip, swirl and savor world-class cuisine, wine and spirits served up by the industry’s finest.
2. New York Comic Con 2019
The New York Comic Con is an annual New York City fan convention dedicated to Western comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, cosplay, toys, movies, and television.
3. American Ballet Theatre – Fall Gala
ABT’s annual fundraising event at the David H. Koch Theater features a performance followed by dinner and dancing. The ABT Fall Gala raises funds for the Company, as well as ABT’s Education and Outreach programs.
Downtown’s premier food festival, Taste of the Seaport, will return for the 10th year of food, fun and fundraising on Saturday, October 19th from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Pier 16 and 17 in the Seaport District of New York City. Taste of the Seaport brings together over 40 of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan and showcases an array of local vendors, artisans, entertainers and family friendly activities, making it the perfect day out for children and adults alike. The event will be followed by a fun-filled Front Street Block Party from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. to keep the party going.
For more information, please visit www.tasteoftheseaport.org
Event: Bon Appétit’s Hot 10 Party
Venue: Industry City, 238 36th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232
Date/Time: Oct. 19, 2019 6-10 PM
Price: Tickets starting at $199 (GA)
Website: BABestWeekendEver.com/Hot10
Description:The ultimate ticket to party side-by-side with Bon Appétit’s Test Kitchen and the Hot 10—America’s Best New Restaurants.
This October, Bon Appétit will host its annual Hot 10 Party. For one night only, the Hot 10—America’s Best New Restaurants will all be in one place for an over-the-top bash. And we want you there. We’re talking unlimited food and drinks from this year’s Hot 10 restaurants (TBA in September!), hang time with your favorite BA editors, and all the good vibes you can handle.
Tickets for the Hot 10 Party on October 19 in Brooklyn, NY are on sale now atBABestWeekendEver.com/Hot10
6. Angel Ball 2019
As the signature fundraising event of Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation, the Angel Ball boasts an audience of nearly 1000 high-net-worth supporters, celebrities, influencers, executives and philanthropists at this annual celebration of life, music, and our quest for a cure.
The black-tie benefit hosted by Grammy-nominated songwriter Denise Richand her daughters Daniella Rich Kilstockand Ilona Rich Schachter, is an evening to honor the memory of Gabrielle Rich Aouadand benefits Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research, which funds the best and brightest early career scientists whose research focuses on finding less toxic treatments for patients with leukemia, lymphoma and other related blood cancers.
Queer Eyehost Karamo Brown emceed the evening, which featured an unforgettable line-up of performances – including an acoustic set by Ashlee Simpson-Rossand Evan Ross; Grammy nominated artist, Julia Michaelswho performed her hits Issues and Heaven. At the end of the night, guests took the dance floor for performances by Daryl “DMC” McDaniels and the legendary Morris Day and The Timeperformed. They then danced the night away to DJ KISS.
Sponsors for the event include celebrity jeweler Lorraine Schwartz,Porsche Cars North America, ALECIA, Casa Noble Tequilaand Pomp & Whimsy. Event décor was provided byBirch Event Designs.
The Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, the multidisciplinary arts center based in the diverse community of Southeast Queens, will host its annual Fall Benefit Event on October 29, 2019. This year the event is focused on Celebrating a Creative Jamaica, honoring a community that has produced a long and diverse list of important artistic contributors.
The Honorees this year reflect the very best in their fields - Obba Babatunde, actor, producer, director, singer, Emmy Award Winner, Tony Nominee, and NAACP Trailblazer Award recipient; Marilyn F. Booker a Morgan Stanley veteran of over 25-years, she is Managing Director at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, and is head of Morgan Stanley's Urban Markets Group; Jumaane D. Williams is the Public Advocate of the City of New York and previously served on the City Council representing the 45th District.
JCAL provides important arts programming to the immediate community and the great New York City area. It is a rich resource for individuals of all age and sits at a crossroad of international, national and local importance between two of the busiest international airports (JFK & LGA), and a leading center of finance, business, trade, and the arts - New York City.
To Purchase Tickets/Donate -https://www.jcal.org/annualfundraiser
7th Annual NYC Autumn Wine Festival is our most elegant tasting of the year, conveniently located in Manhattan. It’s an awesome opportunity to sample a large variety of wines enhanced by a light menu of hors-d’oeuvres, cheese, crackers, crudité and pasta. And if that’s not enough, artisanal food makers — many local to the NY area — sample their products, including charcuterie, baked goods, sweets, savory items and more.
VIP Rosé & Bubbly Suite: The event offers a VIP experience in a luxurious area with 20+ Rosés and Sparkling wines. The VIP Rosé & Bubbly Suite will feature exclusive wines, a special food menu, gourmet chocolate and more. The menu will spotlight artisanal cheeses and delights not available in the general admission portion of the event. Ticket holders will be able to go between the Suite and the main tasting freely. **VIP ticket purchase is required for access to the Rosé & Bubbly Suite.
ABOUT THE 2019 NYC AUTUMN WINE FESTIVAL:
In its 7th year, the NYC Autumn Wine Festival showcases 100+ wines curated by our experts. Select other beverages and spirits will also be sampled. Wines range from full-bodied reds to crisp whites to intriguing blends. VIP tickets will offer access to a Rosé and Bubbly Suite with 20+ rosés and sparkling wines.
Participating wineries will show selections from the world’s leading wine regions — France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, California, New Zealand, Australia, Portugal, and Austria.
A selection of New York State wines will be showcased at the event, with several NY State Farm wineries selling selections by the bottle for guests to take out and enjoy at home. You’ll meet these talented winemakers and hear first-hand about their winemaking process.
Chelsea’s landmark Altman Building will transform into an indoor vineyard, where attendees will taste world-class wine, feast on light hors-d'oeuvres and artisanal snacks.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nyc-autumn-wine-festival-tickets-52897404561?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
