More than 65 lovers of fine food and beverages bursting with flavour and character came together in Bahrain to mark the 75th anniversary of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international association of gastronomy, with chapters in more than 80 countries, including Bahrain.
The Bailliage of Bahrain, founded more than 45 years ago, commemorated World Chaîne Day at the InterContinental Bahrain, with a culinary journey, themed ‘French Classics Revisited’.
Some of the dishes on the menu included a selection of cheeses, savoury beetroot macarons filled with foie grass mousse, beef tongue with truffled celeriac and mustard dressing and crêpes, among others.
It aimed to celebrate French gastrononmy with a meticulously-curated menu that paid homage to the nation’s rich culinary heritage.
Bailli Delegue Betsy Mathieson lauded the enduring spirit of camaraderie and passion that defines the Bahrain Bailliage, which organises up to nine exceptional events each year.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only the legacy of the Chaîne but also the vibrant community we have built in Bahrain,” she said.
On the occasion, French ambassador Eric Giraud-Telme, who is also a member of the Chaîne, delivered a special address, highlighting the history of the organisation.
“Allow me first to express my sincere thanks to our hosts, to the organisers of this dinner and to the chefs and their teams whose dedication has made this event possible,” he said.
“In 1248, under the reign of Saint Louis, the Guild of Rôtisseurs was born.
“Originally created to oversee the roasting of geese, the Guild gradually expanded its reach and, in 1610, was granted its current coat of arms by royal warrant.
“Over the centuries, the Chaîne grew to include members connected to the noblest families in France.
“For 160 years, the legacy of the Chaîne lay dormant, until 1950, when a group of passionate gastronomes and culinary professionals came together in post-war Paris.
“They shared a common mission: to revive the pride and excellence of French gastronomy that had been diminished during the difficult wartime period.
“That same year, La Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs was officially reinstated, with its historical seal and coat of arms restored by Act of the French government.”
Today, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs stands as the world’s oldest and largest gastronomic association, with more than 25,000 members, including hoteliers, restaurateurs, executive chefs or sommeliers, taking part in its activities across the globe.
“What sets the Chaîne apart from other groups is its unique interrelation between professionals and amateurs,” Mr Giraud-Telme added.
“In La Chaîne, you will find chefs, sommeliers, hospitality experts, wine and food suppliers, renowned lecturers, critics and passionate amateurs whose appreciation for fine dining, culture and conviviality bridges all backgrounds.”
He highlighted that French gastronomy holds a unique place in his culture, and in 2010, “The Gastronomic Meal of the French” was inscribed on Unesco’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
“Likewise, Bahraini cuisine, which is rich in history and flavour, deserves more recognition on the global stage,” he said, adding that the kingdom’s dishes are deeply-rooted regional traditions and influenced by Persian and Indian cultures, taking every person who tries them on a remarkable culinary journey.
“From machboos to muhammar to Bahraini tikka, Bahraini food tells a story of heritage and cross-cultural to be discovered by a wider audience.”
Founded in Paris in 1950, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is a global association devoted to preserving and celebrating the traditions of the ancient French guild in a modern, international context.
Its primary goal is to unite professionals and enthusiasts from more than 80 countries, all bonded by a shared love for fine cuisine and the nurturing of young culinary talents worldwide.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
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