Over 1,000 art lovers and connoisseurs gathered for "A Taste of New York," the opening night preview of SOFA New York-The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Functional Art-at the Seventh Regiment Armory. Co-chairs Sandra Grotta and Jack Lenor Larsen presided over the festivities, which included a silent art auction that raised over $250,000 for the exhibitions and public programs of the Museum of Arts & Design (MAD). In keeping with this year's theme, guests indulged in tasty tidbits from some of the city's finest restaurants, including: David Burke & Donatella, Beacon, E.A.T., Café Boulud, La Goulue, Michael's, Park Avenue Café, and Zarela. Introducing the artistic and culinary creations were: MAD's Director Holly Hotchner; President Nanette Laitman; Chair Barbara Tober; and board members Stephanie French, William Taubman, Aviva Robinson, Seth Glickenhaus, and Kay Bucksbaum. Artful guests included: Dina Merrill, A.E. Hotchner, Nancy Margolis, David Childs, Allen and Heidi Roberts, Joni Maya Cherbo, Brad Cloepfil, Norman and Suzanne Cohn, Judith and Dr. Robert Cornfeld, Linda MacNeil and Dan Dailey, Julie Shaffler Dale, and Tommy Simpson. Susan Chin, deputy commish of NYC's Department of Cultural Affairs, was also on hand to kick off Contemporary Decorative Arts Week.