A plant-based dinner party in Los Angeles attended by Meghan Markle has drawn scathing criticism from restaurant critic William Sitwell, who labeled it as “tasteless” and “humdrum.”
The event, titled “A Seat At The Table,” was organized by Emma Grede, renowned for her leadership at Good American and a pivotal role in Kim Kardashian’s Skims brand.
In a brutal commentary for The Telegraph, Sitwell didn’t hold back, describing the soirée as “the ghastliest, most grotesque, most vulgar” gathering in culinary history.
His pointed words captured a sense of disbelief and distaste for what he perceived as an exhibition of pretentiousness.
Held in the glamorous home of designer Kelly Wearstler, the dinner boasted a vegan feast accompanied by “As Ever” wine, which was notably supplied by Markle herself.
This highlight, however, did little to shield the event from criticism.
Sitwell expressed his judgment on the virtual buzz surrounding the event, noting how social media showcased endless posing and self-promotion among attendees.
His disdain was palpable as he remarked that the event felt more about flaunting their celebrity status rather than fostering genuine connection.
Emma Grede, seen seated next to Markle, took a different stance.
In her remarks, she called the attendees an “incredible group of women,” emphasizing the aim of the evening was to forge connections, share experiences, and uplift one another in solidarity.
Reflecting on the dinner, Sitwell admitted he wasn’t present, but he felt he could grasp the ambiance through social media updates.
The online spectacle seemed too alluring for him to resist, likening the experience to rubbernecking at an accident.
The dinner unfolded after Markle’s hectic two-week PR spree, where she made headlines at Paris Fashion Week and accepted a humanitarian award with Prince Harry in New York.
It’s interesting how her award speech underscored the perils of social media, which seemed at odds with the online showcasing of the dinner.
Grede’s vision of the evening as a night of sharing and empowerment was overshadowed by Sitwell’s caustic critique.
The gathering appeared to some as an exercise in lofty self-adulation, raising the question: is this truly what empowering women looks like?
Chef Camilla Marcus introduced a presumably elaborate vegan menu, extolling the virtues of plant-based eating.
Her mission for “regenerative food” stirred discussions about the importance of sustainability, adding a layer of earnestness to the otherwise criticized event.
Markle’s involvement included serving her own wines, perhaps a nod to her burgeoning brand.
Among the discussed labels was a sold-out 2023 Napa Valley rosé, hinting at the commercial success linked to her name.
Responses from attendees varied, with some praising the evening for its focus on women supporting women.
Lindsey Carter, founder of a clothing brand, described the atmosphere as one of genuine generosity, although she acknowledged the event was sponsored, raising eyebrows about its authenticity.
Despite the backlash, Grede defended the spirit of her event, emphasizing that success is rarely achieved alone.
She highlighted a stark contrast in how women in business often miss out on similar networking opportunities typically enjoyed by their male counterparts, framing the dinner as a step towards building a supportive community.
