The day was October 15, 2007… and after a year of planning and hard work, Les Dames d’Escoffier’s Abbondanza! fund–raiser took place. Nearly 200 New York Dames and their guests arrived at the Rainbow Room in Rockefeller Center for one of their favorite things—raising funds for scholarship. And what a success the event turned out to be! Over $120,000 was raised that evening for our Make a Difference Culinary Scholarships, to be awarded to future “Dames in the making.”
The event began with a VIP reception, where the event honoree, Dame Lidia Bastianich, autographed books for the reception attendees, while guests nibbled on hors d’oeuvres and sipped a signature cocktail. The dinner was kicked off by Master of Ceremonies Isaac Mizrahi, who humorously roasted Abbondanza! Culinary Chair Mario Batali. Four-star chefs worked their culinary magic and served a special elegant dinner. Chef Jacques Pépin, a long-time supporter of Les Dames New York, painted and donated a whimsical menu of the event, which was auctioned off. After some intense bidding, Martha Stewart prevailed, then graciously presented the watercolor menu to Lidia as a memento of the event.
The evening flowed with perfection, thanks to Event Cochairs Roberta Morrell and Rita Jammet and their capable and enthusiastic committee. The silent action, expertly organized by Dame Melanie Young increased the LDNY scholarship fund. To read more about Abbondanza!, click here.
Master of Ceremonies Isaac Mizrahi poses with his idol and honoree Lidia Bastianich during a memorable Abbondanza! moment.
