Not all charity events are created equal. Some are certainly better than others. Now I’m not referring to the cause itself. Any function that sole purpose is to raise money or awareness for the betterment of the world is worthy! What I’m saying is not everyone knows how to throw a proper party. That was not the case for Shaken & Stirred presented by C-CAP or formally known as Careers through Culinary Arts Program. Here’s why it was a recipe for success:

A Commendable Cause

Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) is the national non-profit that transforms the lives of disadvantaged youth through the culinary arts and prepares them for college and careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Since being founded in 1990 by Richard Grausman, renowned cookbook author and culinary educator, the organization has awarded over $50 million in scholarships, provided job training and internships, college and lifetime career support, teacher training and product and equipment donations to classrooms.

They work with over 17,000 students nationwide and help students find rewarding careers in the foodservice and hospitality industry with many alumni, now graduates of top culinary schools, working in leading restaurants and hotels throughout the country. C-CAP’s Board of Directors is led by award–winning chef, restaurateur and author Marcus Samuelsson and Mark Weiss, Chief Investment Officer of RFR Holding LLC. All proceeds from the evening went to support his amazing cause that’s helping student’s fulfill their dreams – many of whom are cooking delectable food for us every time we go out to eat!

The C-CAP Junior Board who helps to organize functions such as this, are a group of young professionals who promote the organization’s fundraising efforts and help raise its visibility in the community.

Venue: One Manhattan at STK

Two words – Meatpacking District. Lately, I haven’t spent a lot of time in this bougie neighborhood, but when I have it’s always oh so fancy. This 24-hour neighborhood is part of what makes New York the city that never sleeps. So choosing a neighborhood that is vibrant along with a premier venue like One Manhattan at STK draws in crowd on a weekday night, which is not always easy to accomplish.

The Eats + Drinks:

Some charity functions can be quite stuffy and feel too formal. Neither the stylish venue nor the culinary arrangement afforded this event to give off that vibe. A relaxed walk-around tasting took place with drinks created by some the city’s finest bartenders and mixologists:

• Suma Scroggins of Angel of Harlem presented Riverside Ramble, showcasing Usquaebach Blended Scotch Whisky
• Alex Gabriel of Bar Sardine presented Lady in Green showcasing Blue Nectar Tequila
• Juan Castillo and Chris Williams of Bearded Lady presented Ginger Prince showcasing Diplomatico Rum
• Lissette Tabales of Red Rooster presented Dapper Punch showcasing Glenmorangie
• Mike Bohn of Olmsted presented Rosemary showcasing Scorpion Mezcal
• Alexa Amendolagine of Scarpetta presented Retox showcasing Cotswold Gin

These cocktail creations were served alongside simple, yet memorable passed hors d’oeuvres curated by STK’s executive chef, Bradley Day:

• Serrano and Manchego Mini Empanadas with Tomatillo Sauce
• Vegetable Dumplings with Sweet Ponzu Sauce
• Tuna Tartare with Avocado and Soy-Honey Emulsion with Taro Chip
• Chargrilled Chicken Skewers with Curry Yogurt

– Lauren Wire

Photos by Lindsay Appelman/Matt Miller courtesy of C-CAP