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Piquant party celebrates new food magazine, Takeaway

Piquant Party Lights Up NYC with Star-Studded Launch of Food Magazine 'Takeaway'

In the glittering underbelly of New York City's social scene, where the elite mingle over meticulously curated bites and bottomless flutes of champagne, a new culinary star was born last night. The Piquant Party, held at the chic rooftop venue of The Standard High Line in Manhattan's Meatpacking District, served as the official launch bash for *Takeaway*, a fresh-faced food magazine that's already generating buzz for its bold take on global gastronomy. Billed as an evening of "spicy conversations and flavorful encounters," the event drew a constellation of celebrities, chefs, influencers, and society fixtures, all eager to toast the publication's debut issue. If the party's energy is any indication, *Takeaway* is poised to become the go-to read for anyone who considers food not just sustenance, but a cultural revolution.

The brainchild of editor-in-chief Elena Vasquez, a former *Bon Appétit* contributor turned media mogul, *Takeaway* promises to deliver a smorgasbord of content that goes beyond recipes and restaurant reviews. Vasquez, who cut her teeth in the cutthroat world of food journalism, envisions the magazine as a platform for "unfiltered stories from the world's kitchens," blending investigative pieces on sustainable farming with glossy spreads on underground street food scenes. "We're not just about what's on your plate," Vasquez told Page Six exclusively amid the festivities. "We're about the hands that prepare it, the cultures that inspire it, and the controversies that surround it. *Takeaway* is for the curious eater who wants more than a pretty picture."

The party itself was a feast for the senses, transforming the rooftop into a vibrant marketplace of international flavors. Guests arrived to the rhythmic beats of a live DJ spinning tracks infused with global influences—think Afrobeat meets Latin jazz—while servers circulated with trays of piquant hors d'oeuvres designed to tease the palate. Standouts included fiery Korean gochujang-glazed chicken skewers, tangy Peruvian ceviche shooters, and delicate Indian chaat cups topped with tamarind chutney. The menu, curated by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, who made a cameo appearance, paid homage to the magazine's inaugural theme: "Spice Routes." Samuelsson, fresh off his latest venture in Harlem, mingled with attendees, sharing anecdotes about his Ethiopian roots and how they influence his fusion cuisine. "Food is the ultimate connector," he remarked, clinking glasses with a group of wide-eyed influencers. "Events like this remind us why we cook—to bring people together."

The guest list read like a who's who of the food and entertainment worlds, ensuring the night was as much about star sightings as it was about savoring the spreads. Supermodel Gigi Hadid, a known foodie with her own line of kitchenware, arrived arm-in-arm with her sister Bella, both dressed in sleek, spice-toned ensembles that echoed the party's theme. Gigi, who graces the cover of *Takeaway*'s first issue in a stunning photoshoot set in a Moroccan souk, gushed about the project. "I've always been passionate about food—it's my love language," she said, posing for selfies with fans. "This magazine captures that passion in such a fresh way. Plus, who doesn't love a party with endless tacos?"

Not far behind was actor Timothée Chalamet, looking effortlessly cool in a tailored suit, accompanied by his rumored flame, a rising star in the culinary influencer space. Chalamet, who's been vocal about his vegan lifestyle, sampled the plant-based offerings and engaged in deep conversations with Vasquez about ethical eating. "It's inspiring to see a publication tackling the big issues in food without losing the fun," he shared. Meanwhile, reality TV queen Kim Kardashian made a surprise entrance, turning heads in a form-fitting red dress that matched the evening's fiery motif. Kardashian, who's no stranger to the food scene with her own ventures into wellness and snacks, was spotted chatting with chef José Andrés about humanitarian efforts tied to global cuisine. "Food has the power to change the world," Andrés proclaimed to the crowd during an impromptu toast, referencing his World Central Kitchen initiatives.

The society's old guard was well-represented too, with philanthropist and food patron Agnes Gund holding court near the bar, discussing the intersection of art and cuisine with a cluster of gallery owners. Gund, a longtime supporter of culinary arts programs, praised *Takeaway* for its commitment to diversity in food storytelling. "In a world that's increasingly divided, food unites us," she noted wisely. Adding a dash of Hollywood glamour, actress Zendaya floated through the crowd, her presence sparking whispers about potential collaborations with the magazine. Zendaya, who's been exploring plant-based recipes on her social media, sampled the vegan dim sum and declared it "next-level delicious."

As the night progressed, the party evolved into a series of interactive stations that mirrored *Takeaway*'s editorial ethos. One corner featured a "Spice Lab" where guests could blend their own custom seasoning mixes under the guidance of mixologists from Brooklyn's avant-garde spice shop, The Spice House. Another area hosted live cooking demos by up-and-coming chefs, including a young prodigy from Mumbai who wowed the crowd with her innovative take on pav bhaji. Influencers like TikTok sensation FoodieFran, with her millions of followers, live-streamed the event, capturing the chaos and charm in real-time. "This is what food media needs—real vibes, real flavors," she posted to her feed, amassing thousands of likes within minutes.

Of course, no Page Six-worthy event is complete without a hint of drama. Whispers circulated about a minor rivalry between two attending food bloggers, both vying for a feature in the magazine's next issue. One source claimed a heated exchange over who "invented" the viral avocado toast trend, but it was quickly diffused with rounds of mezcal shots. Elsewhere, a celebrity chef—rumored to be Gordon Ramsay, though unconfirmed—made a brief appearance via video call, offering congratulations and a cheeky warning: "Don't mess up the recipes, or I'll come sort you out!"

The evening's highlight came when Vasquez took the stage for a heartfelt speech, unveiling the debut issue to thunderous applause. The cover, featuring Hadid in a cascade of vibrant spices, symbolizes the magazine's mission to "take away" preconceived notions about food. Inside, readers will find exclusive interviews with figures like Alice Waters on farm-to-table revolutions, a deep dive into the underground taco trucks of Los Angeles, and a provocative essay on the ethics of lab-grown meat. Vasquez announced partnerships with brands like Whole Foods and Airbnb Experiences, hinting at experiential tie-ins like pop-up dinners and global food tours.

As the party wound down under a canopy of stars, with guests departing clutching goodie bags filled with artisanal spices and signed copies of *Takeaway*, the consensus was clear: this launch wasn't just a party; it was a statement. In an era where food content floods our feeds, *Takeaway* stands out by emphasizing authenticity, adventure, and a touch of audacity. "We've only just begun," Vasquez teased, promising more events and editions that will keep the conversation spicy.

For those who missed the soirée, fear not—*Takeaway* hits newsstands next week, and subscriptions are already selling out online. If last night's piquant affair is any preview, this magazine is set to redefine how we devour our food stories, one flavorful page at a time. In the words of one departing guest, "New York parties come and go, but this one left a taste that lingers." Indeed, the Piquant Party has set the bar high, blending society, celebrity, and culinary innovation into an unforgettable night. Whether you're a die-hard foodie or just someone who appreciates a good spread, *Takeaway* is the new essential read that's sure to satisfy your cravings for more.

Read the Full Page Six Article at:
[ https://pagesix.com/2025/07/22/society/piquant-party-celebrates-new-food-magazine-takeaway/ ]