Orange County is home to three chapters of a little-known culinary society with a very rich history. Dedicated to the art and camaraderie of fine dining, La Chaîne des Rotisseurs is an international food and wine organization that dates back to 1248 under Saint Louis, King of France and the Guild of Rôtisseurs. Originally comprised of members connected to the noblest of families of France, its current seal is based on the coat of arms by a royal warrant it received in 1610. After a period of inactivity, it was revived in 1950 following World War II and La Confrèrie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs was officially incorporated and restored by Act of the French Government.
Chapters worldwide bring together both professionals and enthusiasts of food and wine to celebrate the pleasures of the table while enjoying the classic and evolving cuisines of the world.
Laguna Niguel resident David Weinberg joined the Newport Beach chapter soon after moving to the area in 1990 from Cincinnati where his father led a chapter. Weinberg is the Bailli (president/chairman) of the Newport Beach Bailliage which includes chef member Tony Esnault (Knife Pleat). The other two Orange County chapters are South Coast and Laguna Beach.
Local members are immersed in a fine dining experience four to five times a year. The Bailliage fosters the interaction of chefs, sommeliers and members in providing presentations of food and wine. In Weinberg's words, “You can’t replicate the experience.”
The affairs are in private settings and generally begin with champagne while members greet one another and connect with the culinary staff. Board members take great pride in organizing elegant and sophisticated, yet accessible events for members and guests.
Historically, the chapter has emphasized classic and innovative French cuisine while recognizing the other great cuisines of the world. Previous dining venues include Marche Moderne, Antonello’s, Big Canyon Country Club, El Niguel Country Club, Bello Sandro, the Pacific Club, Vaca, Knife Pleat and The Hobbit.
And while the enjoyment of fine food and wine is the common denominator, a key objective is promoting lasting friendships. Seating arrangements are predetermined so there is always an interesting mix of guests and conversation. Their goal whenever possible is to foster the relationship between friendship, cuisine, wine, music and art.
The member organization has initiation fees and annual dues and emphasizes long-term commitment among its members, other chapters, and the international Chaîne.
Weinberg also cites incredible opportunities to travel and dine throughout the world through the organization.
The Newport Beach Bailliage welcomes enthusiasts of the culinary arts but limits its roster to no more than fifty members and spouses to best take advantage of small venues and intimate events.
All chapters provide support to the Chaîne Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to deserving culinary, hospitality and oenological students while promoting competitions among young chefs and sommeliers on both the local, national and international levels.
For more history and national information, visit chaineus.org or for details about the Newport Beach chapter visit newportbeach.chaineus.org
