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New York Botanical Garden’s Orchid Dinner

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By Kelsey Butler

Each year, the Plaza’s Grand Ballroom springs to life with thousands of orchids of all colors for the New York Botanical Garden’s annual Orchid Dinner. This year’s 17th Annual Orchid Show was themed “Singapore,” and Executive Chef Geoff Rudaw and our culinary team created dishes inspired by the theme. The appetizer was a custom version of the very popular Vegetables and Pearls, complete with carrot-sesame purée, shaved baby beets, radishes, sorrel, dragon fruit and soy beans. The meal continued with an entrée of Chicken Breast Rendang that guests heartily enjoyed, followed by alternating desserts of Alphonso Mango Panna Cotta and Yuzu Cheesecake Bamboo.

Throughout the day, designers flooded in, armed with orchids, custom seat covers, and stunning décor, to transform each table into a different floral wonderland. This is my favorite gala of the season because each table was unique. Each one showcased the designers’ personal flavor and flare through the centerpieces, candlelight and glassware.

As guests arrived in floral, sparkly, gorgeous gowns, they were greeted with custom Singapore Sling cocktails complete with Botanist Gin infused with orchids! After a cocktail hour where guests were able to purchase and bid on rare orchids, they were invited into the Grand Ballroom to be amazed by the beautiful tables. The Orchid Gala is always one for the books; enjoy a sample of some of my personal favorite tables!