A European foundation that feted moguls Donald Trump and Rick Hilton at a gala fund-raiser has been accused of being less than charitable toward its host, according to a new lawsuit by the venue Cipriani over a $37,000 debt.
Cipriani sued the European School of Economics Foundation after the organization stiffed the famed 42nd Street restaurant on part of a $183,000 bill for a Dec. 5, 2012, banquet.
The star-studded event honored “Family Business Dynasties,” with daughters Ivanka Trump and Paris and Nicky Hilton presenting awards to their fathers.
“Gala attendees will enjoy an evening filled with cocktails, food, and live music, while having the opportunity to learn how families like the Trumps and Hiltons achieved their success,” the press release said.
The gala benefited scholarships for American students and hurricane relief efforts run by the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, according to the release.
The Manhattan Supreme Court suit says Cipriani tried to negotiate a settlement with the foundation, which has offices on East 57th Street, but the payments dried up.
“This is a straightforward action arising from the failure of the defendants to pay for the catering job under the terms of an agreement,” the suit says.
The foundation did not immediately return calls for comment.
In the past the organization honored singer Beyoncé and comedian Tracy Morgan.