To commemorate the fifth anniversary of Emeril's Miami Beach restaurant at the Loews Hotel, and raise some money for the local community, Emeril Lagasse partnered with the Miami Children's Hospital Foundation for a fund-raising cocktail party on February 4.
"It is a joy to be a part of the fifth anniversary celebration of Emeril's Miami Beach," said Lucy Morillo, president of the foundation. "We deeply appreciate the heartfelt support shown by Emeril and his team, and are honored to have such a celebrated figure as part of our Miami Children's Hospital family."
More than 400 hospital supporters, benefactors, and V.I.P.s attended the invite-only dinner soiree where the notable chef set up various food stations serving chimichurri-Kobe skirt steak, roasted leg of lamb, jambalaya pasta, and a full seafood bar. Additionally, classic New Orleans-style desserts like bourbon pecan and banana cream pie were available later in the evening.
After guests had time to sample some of the food available, attention was turned to the stage and multiple flat-screen TVs positioned around the restaurant for speeches from a multitude of key players at the foundation including the president. Lagasse also spoke about his trip to the hospital earlier that day where he visited with the patients.
"I'm thrilled to reunite with my dear friends and the amazing people of this community for such a worthy cause," said Lagasse. "This is a wonderful way to toast five wonderful years, in addition to all the good work Miami Children's Hospital and its Foundation have provided to the children and families of Miami."
The party was reenergized with a performance from child piano prodigy Ethan Bortnick, who also performed at the foundation's Diamond Ball last October and surprised Lagasse with a special song he composed for the chef, followed by New Orleans jazz musician Jeremy Davenport.
Romero Britto also took the stage to present his portrait of Lagasse created especially for the event. Other Britto works were for sale in the restaurant lobby with proceeds benefiting the foundation.
In the end, more than $100,000 was raised for the hospital's foundation.
