By François Ferreira
The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is a global association whose focus is brotherhood, friendship, camaraderie and sharing a passion for the culinary arts, and the only gastronomic association which welcomes both non-professional and professional members. The non-professional members are cherished of course, as they eat out at the professional members’ hotels and restaurants! Membership status of la Chaîne is recognised internationally and is transferable worldwide.
The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs was created under the 1901 French law regarding associations, with its International Headquarters based in Paris. At its head is a President with a Secretary General and a Board of Directors. The day to day running is organized by National, Provincial and Local Bailliages. A National Bailliage is managed by its Bailli Délégué (National President), assisted by a Council. Members are inducted into the Chaîne at Grand Chapitre gala events: three-day social and educational events that culminate in the induction of new members. Members wear ribbons at such events which denote their level of membership, whether professional or non-professional. These designations are standard in all Bailliages worldwide. Professionals in the kitchen have orange ribbons, front of house – orange and purple; non- professionals – purple trimmed with blue.
The South African National Bailliage was established in 1981 in Johannesburg. Thereafter the Bailliage du Cap was established in 1982. Today the Bailliage National d’Afrique du Sud boasts six Bailliage (regions), namely Du Cap, Outeniqua, KwaZulu Natal, Pretoria, Johannesburg and Lowveld. Each region is managed by a Bailli and a committee.
The Chaîne Oath
I shall always honour the art of cuisine and the culture of the table, and I shall always fulfil my obligations of brotherhood and of respect for my fellow members.
Networking possibilities are numerous especially for a member who travels frequently. Members have access to:
Nearly 18 000 non-professional members who are passionate about culinary arts and fine wine
Nearly 7 000 prestigious professionals encompassing all disciplines of culinary arts
More than 200 international conferences, facilities, service companies and catering services specialists
More than 200 prestigious universities, hotel and cookery schools
More than 250 vineyards in some of the most beautiful winemaking regions and wine wholesalers
Nearly 90 cruise lines and airline companies
Head chefs, young chefs of the future and sommeliers in more than 2 200 restaurants around the world, including famous names in the culinary world (2- and 3-stars Michelin, master craftsmen, Meilleurs Ouvriers de France)
General Managers of some 3 000high-end establishments on five continents
Nearly 180 private clubs
The Chaîne invests in the youth of the hospitality sector by organising the Jeunes Chef Rôtisseurs Competition (Young Chef Competition) as well as the Jeunes Sommelier Competition on regional, national, and international levels.
Being a member of la Chaîne means you are part of a worldwide community in which you can network and build relationships – professional or social.
For more information, go to www.chainedesrotisseurs.com or www.chaine.co.za