Snapshots from the Bouchon opening party

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Beverly Hills was abuzz Monday night for the much-anticipated opening of Thomas Keller’s third outpost of Bouchon. Celebrities and foodies mingled in the palatial dining room, sipping Champagne and sampling charcuterie.

But as is the case with most festivities, the real party was in the kitchen, where guests gathered to see just how Keller’s well-oiled machine works. Attendees passed through, picking up small bites and chatting with the Bouchon chefs. There was also a station where guests got a chance to make olive branch baguettes. Julia Louis-Dreyfus (above), quite handy with the scissors, was lucky enough to score a personal lesson from the master himself.

Of course, there were plenty of chocolate bouchons (pictured below) -- along with a pyramid of countless other pastries -- for the nibbling.

More photos after the jump.

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-- Krista Simmons