As a food aficionado and a devotee of all things Indian (I visited and photographed India on 2 separate occasions), I was delighted to join several hundred guests at the sold-out first Annual Varli Food Festival at the Metropolitan Pavilion. Organized by the exuberant and charming Varli Singh (who also has a magazine devoted to Indian restaurants here and in Mumbai), I strolled past stations designed to reflect each restaurant's style. I really enjoyed Indian culinary creations freshly prepared by teams from 35 local restaurants including Devi, Junoon and Tamarind. A high point was meeting various chefs and getting tips on Indian cooking. Between a performance by the celebrated Indian singer Tina Sugandh, the on-stage cooking show by celeb Chef Sanjeev Kappor, and the chance to be photographed with noted Chef Photo Booth, coupled with delicious specialty cocktails, the evening was an unqualified success. What fun to receive a tote bag filled with various Indian spices, rice, juices, teas and snacks. I might just prepare my own feast in the near future!!!!

Photo by Rose Hartman