We asked intrepid intern Taylor Walker to attend Steel’s 10-year anniversary bash last night and report back with the scoop. Here’s what she had to say:
Ten years ago, the Supreme Court declared George W. Bush the victor of the 2000 presidential election, Justin Timberlake rocked a mini-fro as *NSYNC topped the charts, and Mel Gibson actually stared in a film called What Women Want. Oh, how the times have changed!
jump to find out how much they’ve changed…
On a more local scale, however, Dallasites were greeted with a new restaurant that proved it had staying power. Breaking the precedent set above, Steel Restaurant, which opened its Uptown doors in November 2000, hosted a private bash last night to celebrate its 10-year anniversary. Sponsored by Veuve Cliquot and Belvedere Vodka, the event drew hordes of guests who packed the swanky establishment while sipping complimentary cocktails and Champagne and feasting on Steel’s signature dishes. From the constantly replenished miso-glazed sea bass and Vietnamese “shaken” beef to the elaborate (and again, constantly replenished) sushi buffet, it was easy to see why last night’s revelers went home smiling.
“We have the love of Dallas,” says managing partner Chuck Kneeland, who attributes the restaurant’s success to the people. And given the handful of satisfied partygoers who kept interrupting my interview to express their praise, I’m inclined to believe him. Even Mark Tungcmittrong, the hot spot’s latest executive chef (of about a week), confirmed that he’s enjoyed his stint so far because of the pleasant people.
Kneeland spread the love even further by asking to consider making a cash donation to be used to purchase presents for the patients of Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. Guests who brought presents were invited to place an ornament on the Christmas tree. Based on the consistently rising level of gifts in the toy box, it seems safe to say that the event was a success for all parties involved, including the pint-size benefactors: Steel raised close to $1,000 toward their holiday cheer.
