Our celebration around the world of camaraderie and food was like Christmas Day without the presents. The event took place in the Jing Restaurant of the Peninsula Hotel located in Beijing’s iconic Dongcheng District.

The way to properly celebrate World Chaîne Day is not only with very special food and wine but of course people. This was not all however, as in commemoration everyone was presented with the Bailliage of China World Chaîne Day pin as a memento of the unity it brings.

Champagne matching perfectly with pass around canapés titillated our taste buds:
- Black tiger prawns, truffle tomato marmalade
- Japanese big eye tuna tataki, avocado, tomato salsa
- Focaccia, pesto, Iberico 5J ham
- Green pea tartlet, wild mushroom cream

For the dinner we were seated in four rows of tables with Chaîne banners in abundance. The menu was a celebration of food and wine from around the world. We travelled from Iran to Japan, Italy, India, France, and finally the USA.

What a culinary tour solely for the enjoyment of our taste buds. The Italian course of Maine lobster and gnocchi was a delightful pairing with its Austrian Riesling counterpart. The talents of the chef showcased themselves in the confit pork cheek tandoori, which for many was the stand-out dish.

The main course was a whole roasted goose, harking back to the roots of our association and its founding in 1248 as the Guild of Goose Roasters. This meaning was not lost on the diners. We enjoyed the goose with a spectacular Italian red wine Querece Gobbe 2013 from Toscana.

As the night dwindled Rémy Martin XO and other digestifs were served in the lobby lounge. The merriment of the evening left a deep impression on the guests. This was not just an event. This was a community of members around the world celebrating as one!

Vive la Chaîne!

Preston Thomas
Acting Vice-Chargé de Presse