The evening of July 13, 2009 more than 1,500 foodies, celebrities, restaurateurs, and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society supporters filled the National Building Museum to sample, sip, and socialize for Washingtonian’s annual ‘Best of Washington’ Party.
For the past 30 years, Washingtonian has invited their loyal readers to vote for their favorites in various categories, such as best people, places, and services in the area. The July Issue features “The Best Of …”of which readers were given the opportunity to vote for their favorites – from popsicles, pizza parlors, pot stickers, and cocktails. Of course, the Washingtonian editors didn’t allow us layfolk to decide what’s best (wink); they to weigh in with their own picks of what and whom they feel is the best in Washington. Next to the January 100’s Very Best Restaurant issue and June’s Cheap Eats, the July Reader’s Favorite is one of the most anticipated issues of the year. Copies of the magzine were displayed for reference of for the taking at the event.
For this event, Verizon Wireless and Washingtonian invited the reader favorite ‘winners’ to set up booths and serve up the best that they have to offer to partygoers. This sold-out event featured more than 50 of the metro area’s best restaurants and celebrated chefs, including Michel Richard of Citronelle, Cedric Maupiller of Central Michel Richard, RJ Cooper of Vidalia, Travis Timberlake of Art and Soul, Tony Conte of the Oval Room, Morou Ouattara of his latest venture, Kora, and Dani Arana of Taberna del Alabardero.
Power Spot of the Year Rammy winner, Central Michel Richard offered delicious mini Corned Beef Sandwichs which are offered on their lunch menu. BLT Steak offered an exquisite Tuna Tartare served on a single serving spoon – it was artistic yet functional (see photo on left). Georgetown cupcake offered a sea of tempting cupcakes in a variety of flavors, such as red velvet cake and chocolate coconut (see photo below).
Georgetown Cupcakes
In addition to the great food and cocktails, the event is also for a great cause. All funds from the silent auction and a portion of ticket proceeds will go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to fight blood cancers.
Guests of the evening included, Buzz Bakery’s Executive Chef, Josh Short, Kelly Collis Fredrick of CityShopGirl.com, Mike Ponticelli of Bisnow, and Market Director of Public Relations for JW Marriott, Mark Indre. Other public relations representatives included Jill Collins, Heather Freeman, Wendy Gordon, and Amy Bridges of Clyde’s Restaurants.
Washingtonian staff spotted amongst the crowd included Editors Jack Limpert, Ann Limpert, and Todd Kliman. Did anyone get a picture of Todd? Just kidding …
For additional information please visit: http://www.washingtonian.com/sections/bestof
Filed under: Restaurant Information/Press | Tagged: Best of Washington party, BLT Steak, Cedric Maupillier, Central Michel Richard, Fundraiser, Georgetown Cupcake, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, RJ Cooper, Vidalia, washingtonian | 1 Comment »