Out with Dr. Bill – Bidding Farewell to 2024 with High Style

NYC Holiday Splendor: Friends, Fire Island Spirit, and Festive Fun

This year's holiday celebration in NYC was nothing short of spectacular! Our annual Friends of Beachcomber holiday gathering, inspired by our beloved Fire Island Pines retreat and the incredible people who've shaped our beach life, has evolved into something even more meaningful. It's become a cherished tradition–a reunion of friends and loved ones that blends the best of our worlds.

The evening was undeniably special, thanks in part to the incomparable Brandon Fay of The Perry Club. From his days at Trattoria Del Arte to his memorable stint on ABC's "Shark Tank," and his celebrated Sunday morning cooking series on CBS New York, "Cooking with Brandon," Brandon has long been a beloved figure in New York's culinary scene. Now, as the creative force behind Pasta by Hudson and The Perry Club, he brought his exceptional culinary expertise, magnetic charisma, and passion for New York's vibrant food culture straight into our home.

Brandon delighted us with an unforgettable spread, including chicken and meatball sliders, prosciutto caprese skewers, and my personal favorite–the rigatoni vodka "Pasta Shooters" served in charming bamboo boats. His presence and culinary creations added a vibrant flavor to the evening, making it truly unforgettable.

Not surprisingly, Brandon exceeded all expectations and went above and beyond. He arrived with a mobile warming oven to keep every dish perfectly hot and fresh, personally refilling pasta boats and ensuring the warm sliders just kept coming. His hands-on approach and infectious energy truly elevated the evening–a Christmas gift in itself.