The year 2020 has been an extraordinary one, and many people hope to forget the pain, losses, and challenges that the pandemic has brought. Thankfully, as Chaîne members we have a strong bond of friendship that transcends calamity. Even in this tough year, we are able to enjoy life together with culinary passion.

“A Bite of Taihu Lake” was truly a prestigious event. With two months of preparations from getting full approval for the yacht and planning the logistics to have a full-service on-board culinary team, the Bailliages of Suzhou and Wenzhou came together to make this dream event come true.

The “Taihu One”, which was the only yacht that had been approved by the authorities to set sail, was the perfect venue for experiencing the beauty and culinary traditions of Lake Taihu. With such enthusiasm leading up to this event and the support from members all around China, the hosting bailliage decided to add an additional day to prolong the fun.

Our Vice-Échanson selected Lanson Black Label Champagne to start the lake voyage. It was followed by Montesquieu Dry Red served with the unique Suzhou Taihu Lake menu.

Wan Li Restaurant in the Renaissance Suzhou Taihu Lake Hotel has received a star in Meituan’s “Black Pearl Restaurant Guide” in China. The restaurant’s culinary team skilfully delivered an unforgettable gourmet experience with ingredients sourced from the lake and its environs.

Members and guests were impressed by the ingenuity of the fine local cuisine presented by Executive Chef David Zhu and his team. Whilst enjoying the spectacular views of the lake during the cruise, we savoured each bite of the traditional Suzhou cuisine. We were also serenaded by a performance of “Kun Opera,” which enhanced the full immersive enjoyment of the local culture: sight, taste and sound.

The wonderful moments during this two-day event were akin to a once-in-a-lifetime experience, allowing each of us the chance to truly relax and enjoy life in the midst of this challenging year.

In conclusion, we would like to thank the Renaissance Suzhou Taihu Lake Hotel team, with special thanks to David Zhu, Executive Chef (Chinese), and Maître Hôtelier William Yang, General Manager of Suzhou Taihu Renaissance and Marriott hotels. Many thanks also go to the local Bailliage officers for helping to organize such a wonderful event.

Vive la Chaîne!

Richard Liu
Bailli, Bailliage of Wenzhou