NEW YORK—Burger patties were a’sizzlin‘ and papaya salads were a’stirrin’ at the Celebrate Flatiron Chefs event at Madison Square Park Tuesday.
For Lauren Hirschberg, Craftbar’s chef de cuisine, the event was far from a typical day at work; it was a chance to catch up with his chef buddies, and contribute to the park’s maintenance.
“I think it is a great program to raise money for the park. It’s one of the top three parks that I like—maybe just because I have to walk through here every day,” Hirschberg said.
Although around 1,000 food lovers attended throughout the evening, the tables were not too crowded.
“At some events you get absolutely crushed by people. ... But we even get to pull out our grill here,” Hirschberg said. “This is our competition smoker that we normally use for competitions.”
The revenue from the event exceeded Madison Square Park Conservancy’s original fund raising goal, which was $250,000.
Tickets to Celebrate Flatiron Chefs event were $175 and $275. Many diners said the ticket was worth the price.
“The food was better than it has ever been,” said Bertie Downs, the event organizer. The funds will go toward the park’s maintenance, security, and free cultural events.
“You get to sample different restaurants, and they are all quality restaurants,” said Nina Lagdameo, 50, a worker in the Flatiron area. Her favorite aspect of the event was the “informality.”
“The chefs are dressed casually, you are not intimidated to go and try their food,” Lagdameo said.
A total of 27 restaurants participated. Hirschberg said the event was attractive to local restaurants owners, because they have an interest in keeping the community clean.
“It is a great way to bring the community together,” said Yumi Tahara, 50, a retail employee in Flatiron.
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