The 85th Academy Awards is almost upon us, which means, the latest Governor's Ball is also on the horizon. In his fourth year as chair of the ball, Jeffrey Kurland introduced a "sneak preview" of the post-awards foodie event at the Ray Dolby Ballroom on Tuesday (January 22, 2013). The official Oscars after-party, held each year in the grand ballroom at the Hollywood & Highland Center, is invariably packed full with the biggest names in show business eating from one of the most unusual menus of the year.

Event producer Cheryl Cecchetto told Variety that the layout will once again encourage socializing and "ease of flow", rather than the formal seated setup of yesteryear. Food will be provided by legendary chef Wolfgang Puck and Matt Bencivenga, who will offer, "elaborate small plates and bite-sized passed hors d'oeuvres." An 18,000 LED light chandelier will hover above the elegant room while 423 pieces of custom-made lounge-style furniture will be fabricated for the event from high-backed banquettes covered in velvet.

So, what's on the menu?

Puck's astonishing FIFTY dish menu is described as a "combination of comfort foods" including "mini Kobe beef cheese burgers, spicy tuna tartare cone and chestnut tortellini with white truffles." Elsewhere, there's a chicken pot pie, vegan options including kale salad, a dessert of Sherry Yard and, of course, chocolate Oscars. Another change-up to this year's menu concerns the alcohol, with champagne provided by the small family-owned Thienot house.

The 1,500-guest Governor's Ball takes place on February 24, 2013, immediately following the Academy Awards.

Governor's Ball Organizer Cheryl Cecchetto Governor's Ball Organizer Cheryl Cecchetto