Jimmy Buffett and Mario Batali to Support Cochon Fundraiser

Todd Price reveals that Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski have followed the path of Emeril Lagasse and John Besh to start the Link Stryjewski Foundation which will support New Orleans youth programs. The gala on January 9 will support Kingsley House and the Youth Empowerment Project.

And there's a little something about Jimmy Buffett headlining the $1,000 ticket gala ball at the Orpheum Theater. And Mario Batali will be one of the chefs cooking for the event, as well as the host of a private dinner ($500 ticket) the night before the gala. The other chefs include Chicago's Paul Kahan (Blackbird, The Publican), San Francisco's Nancy Oakes (Boulevard), Los Angeles' Suzanne Goin (Lucques, a.o.c.) and Charleston's Mike Lata (Fig).

What the 500 guests of the gala should expect, according to Price:

Link has been researching the early history of New Orleans, and he wants the Bal Masqué to capture the spirit of a Caribbean Carnival ball. Masks will be required. Costumes are encouraged.