Risotto, Sliders, Fried Chicken & Vodka at the 2 Days In New York Premiere After Party!

Wednesday night I found myself partying and rubbing elbows with some of Hollywood’s elite in New York’s grungy Lower East Side for The Cinema Society’s city premiere of Chris Rock & Julie Delpy’s new comedy 2 Days in New York.  The film garnered rave reviews across the pond when it opened in Europe about a month ago, and celebrities including Rock, Delpy, Tyra Banks, Russell Simmons, Ice T & Coco, and model Quiana Grant all showed up the other night and gave red carpet interviews, posed for photogs, and grabbed prime seating in the downstairs theater at the Landmark Sunshine Cinema on East Houston Street. I made sure to snag some free popcorn and treated myself to a Coca-Cola before taking my seat right next to a dapper Rev. Al Sharpton and his lovely younger date.

The comedy centers around the city’s nouveau family idea that found Chris Rock’s stern character in a love relationship with Delpy’s French more whimsical artist heroine.  While the film made for a refreshing perspective on art, life, relationships, family, and life in New York City, the unexpected moments and innately funny Rock kept this film, that seems more apropos for a European audience, moving.  It takes place in the zany household shared by the central characters when her family visits from France for two days for the first time since they couple met.  With tons of European humor there are still universally funny moments for all to enjoy in this contemporary piece.

Obviously, for me, the real fun came at the after party at DL, located at 93 Ludlow street.  Even lower and more east than the theater, as a west-sider, it was no surprise that I had never heard of this third-level swanky lounge.  Hosted by luxe vodka brand Grey Goose, the cool atmosphere was dark and intimate, with breathtaking views of downtown’s hip side.  Celebrities mingled, customized drinks were served, and waiters in suits passed around hors’d oeuvres on silver platters!

The sliders were good.  I was thrilled they were done!  I went to a party last week at Amy Sacco’s new No. 8 and the sliders were so raw, they were utterly gamey.  DL’s catered version were thoroughly cooked meat with cheese, soft bread, and a pickle on top!  I loved every bite!

The all-white meat fried chicken tenders on skewers were alright… Paired with ranch dressing, the sticks made them ideal for eating and dipping!  There was nothing too exciting or creative here… It was a safe dish to say the least, but, as long as the meat is tender, you can never go wrong with fried chicken.

But the best things served up the other night were the lightly battered and fried truffle risotto balls.  You already know my affinity for both pasta and truffles, not to mention all things fried!  These super rich appetizers were crispy, creamy, comforting, warm, flavorful and a gift from God!  I loved them!  They made for excellent party food and the presentation only made them more appetizing and delicious!

So that’s how the Hollywood folks do in NYC after a fancy premiere!  Needless to say, I stumbled home as the liquor was passed around like candy at Hershey Park… I had a great time at the premiere, an awesome time at DL, and this is just another reason why I love what I do.

BJC.

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