Wasabi macarons, edamame dumplings, pig’s blood popsicles. These were just a few of the impressive Asian-inspired delicacies sampled at the LUCKYRICE Grand Feast on Friday night. Held at the Mandarin Oriental’s majestic 36th-floor ballroom, this epic celebration drew top chefs from around the globe, including Masaharu Morimoto, Michael Anthony, Ming Tsai, Todd English, Ian Kittichai, Susur Lee and many others from who presented unique interpretations of Asian cuisine. 

Packed into the grandiose space, guests sipped and sampled their way through Asia’s diverse cultures without ever leaving NYC. Participating restaurants included Betel, Buddakan, Ember Room, Gramercy Tavern, The Hurricane Club, Junoon, Morimoto, Public, Perry St and Tulsi. To wash down all the flavorful bites, there was also a slew of beverage options, from smooth Suntory whiskies and Singha beer to Bombay Sapphire cocktails and scads of sake. And with all event proceeds benefiting City Harvest, what better reason to pick up some chopsticks and chow down?

For additional coverage, check out my recap of the 2011 LUCKYRICE Festival.