Cheers!

We celebrated Ron's launch on CNBC's "Trading the Globe" at Imperial No. Nine located in the Mondrian SoHo Hotel. Lucky for us, our friend Leah is the head hostess there. She greeted our party as if we had arrived at her own home and escorted us to a low-lit corner, away from the bustle, but still in the heart of the ambiance.

The space is warm and enchanting, and fully enclosed under a glass roof. Leah told us that the décor was inspired by Jean Coucteau’s 1946 film La Belle et la Bête. She didn't have to tell us who runs the kitchen. We already know that: Sam Talbot of season 2's Top Chef. Even though we didn't see him, we had the chance to taste his much talked about dishes. Our favorite dish was the Cauliflower Fritters made with ricotta, sunflower seed-olive brittle and white balsamic. They literally pop in your mouth. Leah really outdid herself when she had the waitress bring us a selection of desserts-- on the house! How sweet! Spoons were passed around, glasses were clinked and smiles exchanged. The energy that evening was truly celebratory.