The historic, world-renowned Mandarin Oriental Hotel was the location for Thailand’s Annual Chapitre – the 43rd one held in Bangkok.

We were delighted to welcome our guest of honour, International Vice-President Marie Jones, to preside over the Induction Ceremony and provide words of wisdom regarding the Chaîne.

Of special note was the induction of our new Bailli Délégué, Arto Artinian, who succeeds Alan Kam. New members of the National Council were also inducted, along with several new members, promotions and recognitions.

The Champagne reception and Gala dinner were attended by 120 members and guests.

Members of our wonderful worldwide Chaîne came from China, France, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, and especially from the soon-to-be Bailliage of Myanmar.

Notable among the international participants were:
* Donald Hall - Member of the Conseil Magistral, Bailli Délégué of Macau
* Steven Kahn - Bailli Délégué of Hong Kong
* Kevin Chang - Chancelier of China
* Michael Martello - Bailli Provincial Honoraire of Pacific Northwest, USA
* Ada Chio de la Cruz - Chargée de Presse of Macau
* Irene Siong Hoong Chen - Vice-Chargée de Presse of Perak, Malaysia

The beautifully-adorned tables of The Oriental Ballroom fittingly showcased our classic “French menu with a twist” prepared by Chef Aurelien Poirot, served by his exceptional staff and matched with superb wines selected by Échanson Honoraire Robert Maurer-Loeffler and the National Council.

MENU

Crayfish à la nage
clear tomato jelly, papaya, kobocha, vegetable fantasy
Champagne Diebolt Vallois Brut Rosé

Green asparagus, black truffle, whipped Burrata
2012 Pouilly-Fumé ‘Aubaine’ - Domaine Jonathan Didier Pabiot

Pan-fried foie gras
roots, Brassica oleracea, citrus, demi-glace
2014 Nussbaumer Gewürztraminer - Cantina Tramin, Süd-Tirol

Magret of Challans duck
Maxims-style potatoes, blood orange reduction
cocoa bean, pomelo sashimi
2010 Château Talbot, 4th Growth St Julien

Smoked Parmesan
Balsamic, cherry sphere
2009 Valpoicella Amarone Riserva - Sergio Zenato

Baba ‘bouchons’
Yellow Chartreuse, cardamom, Valrhona ‘Dulcey’ chocolate ganache
2013 Château de l'École - Sauternes
Château les Justices - Sauternes

It was a truly memorable evening.

Vive la Chaîne!

Paul Frankland
Conseiller Gastronomique