The James Beard Foundation 2013 “Women in Whites” Gala - Celebration of Women in the Culinary Industry - Four Seasons Hotel, NYC - November 15, 2013

The James Beard Foundation, the world’s foremost culinary organization, celebrated its annual gala and fundraiser at the Four Seasons Restaurant in New York City on Friday, November 15. Tyra Banks, Gail Simmons, and Martha Stewart join five of the country’s top chefs at this year's annual gala.

This year’s “Women in Whites” theme featured an incredible menu presented by five of the most accomplished female chefs, including Dominique Crenn, Kristen Kish, and JBF Award winners Melissa Kelly, Barbara Lynch, and Sherry Yard. More than 260 guests were in attendance to honor these exceptionally talented women.

Guests enjoyed a tasting that was complemented with exquisite wine pairings chosen by 2013 JBF Award winner Merry Edwards of Merry Edwards Winery, in Sebastopol, California, while mixologist Audrey Saunders, who owns New York City’s famed Pegu Club, prepared cocktails.

Martha Stewart and Tyra Banks pose with top female chefs in the country

Mixologist Audrey Saunders of the Pegu Club creates light yet flavorful cocktails

An exquisite dish of lobster and wild mushrooms, one of several dishes created by chefs honored at this year's gala

The evening ended with a delectable dessert reception created by Sherry Yard, well-known for her creation of the desserts at the annual Governor’s Ball Oscar Party. Now at Helms Bakery in Los Angeles, Sherry’s Pop-In Dessert Lounge featured a fantasy land of desserts including Tarts, Corn'Sicles, Rocks, Push-Ups.

A behind the scenes look at chefs creating amazing dishes for the night's festivities

The talent and well deserved recognition of these female chefs at this year's truly speaks for itself!

A silent and live auction raised over $400,000 to support the James Beard Foundation’s mission and programs. The auction included unique experiences, such as an extravagant multi-course private dinner for up to 40 people prepared by David Bouley and other New York City hot spots. The auction, which also included “Women in Wine,” a wine country getaway for three couples with a three-night stay at Merry Edward’s Orchard House at her eponymous Russian River Valley winery, ended with a surprise pledge. For this last auction opportunity, pastry chef Dominique Ansel baked 25 Chestnut Cream Cronuts.

Sponsors for “Women in Whites” included Delta Air Lines; Langham Place; Lavazza Coffee and Espresso; Pierre Ferrand; Bacardi USA; Laird’s Applejack; GOTHAM magazine; Cognac Pierre Ferrand; Tanqueray Gin; Noilly Prat; and The Women’s Culinary Circle, a collection of female-owned businesses that further demonstrate women’s leadership in the culinary industry, including: At Vermilion, EDENS, Gourmet Settings, Les Dames d'Escoffier and The National Restaurant Association.