Another Amazing Dinner for a Better New York, 2025
Photos: S:US
On June 11, 2025, Emmy-winning and four-time James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Zimmern curated the Dinner for a Better New York, a culinary celebration to benefit Services for the UnderServed (S:US), a nonprofit organization founded in 1978, that is transforming the lives of New Yorkers with disabilities, people in poverty, and people facing homelessness. Zimmern, who also serves as a member of the S:US board, was joined by 11 of the city’s top chefs for a night celebrating S:US’ life-changing work to build a better New York where opportunities are available to all.
The evening raised over $1.5 million to benefit New Yorkers in need of housing, shelter, treatment and rehabilitative services, employment and skills-building, therapeutic horticulture, and crisis services.
“S:US confronts and meets the challenges that face individuals from leading independent lives in a safe and secure home of their own. Gail K. McCallion, Esq., S:US Board Chair. “S:US believes the stability of a “home” fosters recovery, employment and health.”
“Sharing food is how we tell people we love them,” Andrew Zimmern, Curator and Host. “We hope that love reaches you inside and you’re able to spread some of that around in your communities, and you take that with you. But your presence all here tonight allows this to be the biggest fundraiser of our year. And New York will be better off tomorrow morning because of what you’ve done tonight. So, thank you, thank you, thank you!”
Chefs who prepared the evening’s world-class menu included:
- Daniel Boulud of Bar Boulud and LA TÊTE D’OR
- Marcus Samuelsson represented by Fariyal Abdullahi of Hav & Mar
- Esther Choi of Mokbar
- Marc Forgione of Forgione
- Stefano Secchi of Rezdôra
- Alex Guarneschelli and Michael Jenkins of Clara
- Jonathan Waxman of Barbuto
- Ayesha Nurdjaja of Shuka and Shukette
- Michael Solomonov of Zahav
- Rocco DiSpirito of Pop Up by Rocco
- Restaurateur Sean Feeny of Fini Pizza
Guests enjoyed tasting stations, each presented by a chef in-person, and a multi-course menu curated by Zimmern. The Dinner for a Better New York also honored Community Care Rx and D&J Transportation.
“It is a profound honor to stand alongside Services for the Underserved in their mission to uplift lives and empower communities. Dr. Hossam Maksoud, CEO, Community Care Rx. “Being selected as this year’s Healthcare Honoree is deeply humbling and truly meaningful to me, as it affirms our shared commitment to dignity, access, and compassionate care for all. At Community Care Rx, we believe healthcare is not just about prescriptions—it’s about people. Together, we are building a better New York, one person at a time.”
“It was an incredible honor for D&J Transportation to be recognized as an honoree by S:US.” Joe Gallitto, Jr, General Manager, D&J Transportation. We are beyond proud to support an organization that uplifts and empowers the most vulnerable members of our communities. We are deeply grateful to everyone who attended the gala, supported S:US, and contributed so generously. Your kindness and commitment help make lasting change possible, and we’re grateful to be part of that journey.”
“New York City has a growing housing and homelessness crisis,” said Perry Perlmutter, President & CEO, Services for the UnderServed. “S:US believes the solution to homelessness is homes. Home is more than a roof — it’s stability, safety, community, belonging.”
The 2025 Andrew Zimmern Award, which recognizes individuals who exemplify the values and characteristics that Zimmern lives by, was awarded to Shaida Gray. Shaida has endured numerous emotional and physical hardships throughout her life. She came to S:US with a history marked by trauma, which profoundly affected her behavior and self-worth. Despite these challenges, Shaida has persevered with determination, resilience, positivity, generosity, and optimism. Since joining S:US in 2018, she has received support to rebuild her life, and today, Shaida is a vibrant and lovable young woman whose spirit shines brightly.
“One day while thinking about my needs and wants, I had a bright idea about feeding the homeless. My idea was to have a food drive during the holiday season. From that, the Community Fridge Pantry has been born!” said Shaida Gray, accepting her award. “I learned to trust again. Not only in others but in myself. Thank you all again for this special recognition.”
The Dinner for a Better New York took place at Tribeca Rooftop, in lower Manhattan.
Enjoy the stories, personal notes, ads from our events sponsors, and so much more in our Dinner for a Better New York program.
