Collab Dinner: A Winter Solstice Celebration Featuring Chef Nasim Alikhani with Nilou Motamed
Wed, December 17, 2025
6:30 PM
Pier 57
25 11th Ave
New York, NY 10011
Dining Table
$210
Internal Chef's Counter
$250
External Chef's Counter
$185
Honoring the Persian Tradition of Yalda with a James Beard Award Nominee® for Best Chef New York
Three-time James Beard Award nominee® chef Nasim Alikhani of Brooklyn’s Sofreh joins forces with celebrated host and culinary expert Nilou Motamed to bring Yalda—Persia’s ancient winter solstice celebration—to the table.
Known as Shab-e Yalda, the holiday marks the longest night of the year when families gather to share pomegranates, watermelon, and poetry—a reminder that even on the darkest night, light waits to return.
This festive dinner will spotlight regional Iranian flavors with a menu centered on crimson-hued foods and seasonal ingredients woven throughout. Guests will not only savor the richness of chef Alikhani’s cuisine, but also Motamed’s storytelling and the spirit of a tradition that has connected communities for thousands of years. Together, we will honor the symbolism of Yalda: the triumph of light over darkness, of community over solitude, and hope enduring above all else.
This one-night-only dinner will feature a cocktail reception with passed hors d'oeuvre upon arrival, an expertly crafted multi-course menu with thoughtfully curated wine or beverage pairings, and a Q&A with the featured chefs.
Who's Cooking
Nasim Alikhani
Nilou Motamed
Menu
Stay tuned for updates!
Additional Information
Event Policy
Reservation Policy:
All reservations are non-refundable and must be made in advance. Should the event be cancelled due to any unforeseen circumstances, JBF will offer a range of options, including ticket exchanges, the option to donate tickets, or a full refund. For more information, contact platformbyjbf@jamesbeard.org.
Alcohol Disclaimer:
James Beard Foundation events permit guests age 21 years and older to attend events where alcoholic beverages are served.
Dietary/Food Restrictions Policy:
Events at Platform by JBF are special one-night-only menus and we do not offer a la carte menus. If you have serious food allergies, we will work with the visiting chef team to do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee that alternate options will be available for every course.
Gift Card Policy:
Gift cards may not be combined with event discount codes, including Patron member discounts.
Questions? Check out our Platform FAQ page.
Terms
Tickets to events held at Platform at Pier 57 by the James Beard Foundation cover the cost of food, education, and a unique dining experience. Meals are prepared by culinary masters from all regions of the United States and around the world. Unless otherwise stated, alcoholic beverages are provided on a complimentary basis and are included in the ticket price. Gratuity, taxes, and fees are included in the ticket price.
James Beard Foundation events permit guests age 21 years and older to attend events where alcoholic beverages are served.