On Tuesday, April 15, the second night of Passover, Barbara Lazaroff held the Spago 30th annual Seder dinner at Spago Beverly Hills to benefit MAZON “A Jewish Response to Hunger”, which helps feed people in the LA Community.
The dinner included fried flat bread (matzos) and a great matzo ball soup with chicken broth.
The main course was a salmon and steak plate. A fabulous dessert tray of great Spago famous cookies, cakes, and confections rounded off the meal.
Lazaroff said she began the tradition at the original Spago Hollywood as a means to bring the Jewish community together on the festive holiday, as well as those of different faiths.
“I believe that if we all share our traditions, myths, are dispelled and communication is sparked,” Lazaroff said. “This leads to better understanding and tolerance for all cultures. Also, there is such a profound need in Los Angeles, so many go hungry every day, elders miss many meals and children who go to school unable to concentrate because they are hungry.
Lazaroff said this event had become a warm and delicious tradition at Spago Beverly Hills for those who love the Spago cuisine and their go home package of oven baked matzah’s and macaroons.
“About 40 percent of those that attend are not Jewish and some experience their very first Seder at this event; where they get a sophisticated introduction to Jewish cuisine,” she said.
Over the years, stars like Oscar winner Rita Moreno, Lainie Kazan, Melissa Manchester, studio and network heads, and entertainment industry leaders have attended this dinner.
The dinner was officiated by Rabbi Arnold Rachlis and Cantor Ruti Briar of University Synagogue.
The Westside Children’s Choir performed fresh from their appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres Show.
