Sophia Bush had giving rather than receiving on the brain for her 31st birthday.

The actress celebrated on Monday night at Hotel Chantelle on the Lower East Side but specifically asked her guests not to bring gifts, dished a source. Instead, she asked pals to donate to the charity Pencils of Promise, a nonprofit that builds schools.

At the party, Bush and 30 of her closest friends took in live jazz tunes and indulged in a tasting menu from newly appointed executive chef -- and longtime Bush pal -- Seth Levine.

Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Teen pleads guilty to fatal stabbing at house party ... Jets-Pats preview Credit: Newsday

Tax hike in town's proposed budget ... Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Attacks ads targeting Suozzi paused ... Out East: McCall Wines

Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Teen pleads guilty to fatal stabbing at house party ... Jets-Pats preview Credit: Newsday

Tax hike in town's proposed budget ... Residents sue over industrial park plan ... Attacks ads targeting Suozzi paused ... Out East: McCall Wines

Subscribe

Unlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 6 months

SUBSCRIBESALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME