Honoring Remarkable Leaders

The event honored inspiring individuals:

• Andy Darrell, Senior Advisor at the Environmental Defense Fund, whose work is pivotal in advancing environmental policies.
• Charles Gaines, a renowned artist whose innovative works challenge perceptions and provoke thought.
• Maria Torres-Springer, Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development & Workforce, who plays a crucial role in shaping New York City’s future.

Engaging the Senses and the Sensibilities

Hall des Lumières allowed the team to create a one-of-a-kind immersive experience thanks to cutting-edge projection technology. The space was transformed into a breathtaking visual landscape: Governor’s Island.

Not only was this a visual delight, the event was a culinary delight. As guests mingled amid the stunning projections showcasing scenes from Governors Island, they enjoyed a variety of butlered dishes, several curated buffet stations, and delectable cocktails.

We’re thrilled to be partners of Governors Island collaborate with them on events that champion vital initiatives for our community. The success of this gala exemplifies the power of coming together to foster a brighter future for all.

The Menu

Cocktail Selections

• Smokey Paloma: Altos blanco tequila, fresh grapefruit and lime juice, agave, club soda, black salt rim
• Paloma Pizzaz: Passionfruit, lime, grapefruit, honey, club soda

Small Bites

• Truffled Kettle Chips
• Pumpkin Spiced Corn Nuts: Pumpkin seeds, dried cranberry
• Roasted Cherry Tomato Tatin: Savory onion jam
• Mighty Mushroom Maki Roll: Mushroom medley, baked tofu, shiitake truffle sauce
• Crispy Arancini: Fra diavolo sauce, parmesan cheese
• Puffed Tortilla: White cheddar fondue, pickled chili
• Salmon Tartare: Persian cucumber, crème fraiche, dill
• Tamari Ginger Poke: Crisp sesame tuille
• Poblano & Chicken Salad: Yukon gold potato crisp
• House-made Kosher Pigs in a Blanket: Deli mustard

Noodle Station

• Chicken Chow Mein
• Soba Noodle Salad: Cabbage, snap peas, edamame, peppers, sesame seeds, herbs, ponzu dressing
• Scallion Pancakes
• Seaweed & Cucumber Salad: Served with crispy noodles, soy sauce, ponzu, Chinese mustard, red chili sauce
• Shrimp Pan Fried Dumplings
• Vegetable Pan Fried Dumplings

Carvery Stations

• Chef Carved Strip Steak
• Salmon en Croute: Mustard cream sauce
• Caesar Salad Crudo: Shaved fennel and cauliflower, hand-torn croutons, creamy lemon Caesar dressing, shaved parmesan
• Creamed Spinach Twice-Baked Potatoes
• Roasted Wild Mushrooms & Shallot Agridolce: Served with horseradish cream, chimichurri, mustard sauce
• Striped Bass with Tomato Caper Relish: Artichoke, spinach, fennel, crispy fingerling potatoes
• Roasted Chicken & Lentils: Harissa, parsley, mint, cilantro, lemon
• Multi-Colored Roasted Cauliflower: Toasted garlic bread crumbs, parmesan, lemon
• Tuscan Kale & Pecorino Salad: Basil, mint, lemon vinaigrette
• Parker House Rolls: Cultured local butter

Paella Station

• Traditional Paella: Chicken, chorizo, mussels, clams, scallops, shrimp, rice, red peppers, peas
• Farmers Paella: Yellow rice, peas, artichoke, roasted sweet red peppers, zucchini
• Grilled Shishito Peppers
• Pan con Tomate

Butlered Desserts

• S’mores Squares
• Fresh Fruit Tartlet
• Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
• Flourless Chocolate Cake Bites

For more information on how to get involved with Governor’s Island initiatives, please contact development@friendsgi.org.