Feast with the Beasts

Black ties mixed with colorful animals at the Feast with the Beasts gala at the Miami Metrozoo on March 7. The evening began with the exclusive "Beastkeeper" V.I.P. party at the pavilion in the grasslands area of the park.

Upon arrival, guests had the opportunity to pose for pictures with Indy car driver Tony Kanaan and Miss Bolivia International Silvana Camargo. Inside, the space was littered with small white tables each topped with a bird-of-paradise centerpiece from Curbside Florist and accented with two special-edition glass Evian bottles created by fashion designer Christian Lacroix. Guests feasted on dishes from Ortanique on the Mile, River Oyster Bar, and more, while sipping drinks made with Cachaça Moleca.For the main "Feaster" party, nearly 1,100 guests walked the long trails of the park to sample a variety of foods from the Miami restaurants and caterers who lined the walkway. Highlights included arepas and Reuben sandwiches from Fare to Remember Creative Catering, handmade cavatelli with Italian sausage provided by Creative Taste's Catering, and SushiSamba's kiwi slices with raspberry caviar.

When it came to presentation, participants used a variety of innovative methods. Special Events Catering by Les/A Kosher Palate used irregular-shaped, heated slabs of granite to sear their tuna hors d'oeuvres, while Bijan's on the River served its paella Valenciana from an oversized pan nearly half the size of the table it sat on.

Ending the tour were dessert selections from the Cookies by Design, Cold Stone Creamery, and more. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed the sounds of the "Amazon and Beyond" exhibit's band.

Nearly $300,000 was raised through ticket sales and a silent auction to benefit the Zoological Society of Florida, which provides educational opportunities to local children.