La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Returns to Asheville
Words by Ellen Jones | Photography by Courtney Snyder
With its secret society-worthy regalia and initiation ceremonies, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an organization steeped in tradition and ritual.
Originating in France in 1248 as a guild of goose roasters, it has evolved into a global network of epicureans, chefs, and enthusiasts who share a passion for gastronomy.
But La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is more than just a platform for gastronomic indulgence; it is a custodian of culinary heritage. Through its culinary competitions, educational programs, cultural exchanges, and intimate dinners, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs’ 21,000 international members strive to preserve and promote the rich diversity of global cuisine.
In Asheville, a culinary renaissance is underway. After a period of dormancy, its La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs chapter, the Bailliage de Asheville, is back with a bang. With new leadership and future culinary events in the pipeline, Asheville’s dining scene has never looked more exciting.
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs: Then and Now
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs traces its origins back to the medieval courts of Europe, where noble roasters banded together in a sacred brotherhood to celebrate the art of spit-roasting meats. Clad in regal attire and wielding ceremonial swords, these roasting knights embarked on epic culinary quests, dazzling palates and igniting passions wherever they roamed.
Fast forward to the present day, and La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs has evolved into a global gastronomic society, uniting gourmands and bon vivants from Kenya to Korea and every corner of the planet.
What sets La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs apart from your run-of-the-mill dining club? For starters, it’s not just about the food — it’s about the experience. From elaborate induction ceremonies to opulent gala dinners in the best restaurants in town, every event is an extravagant affair, meticulously curated to tantalize the senses and transport diners to gastronomic nirvana.
Events and gatherings worldwide are as diverse as the cuisines they showcase. Later this year, the Grand Chapter of France will enjoy a four-day gourmet experience in glittering Versailles to celebrate the 370th anniversary of King Louis XIV’s coronation and the 360th anniversary of the beginning of the construction of the Palace of Versailles.
Dubai is hosting an exquisite gathering in Madinat Jumeirah’s Mina A’Salam ballroom in view of the iconic Burj Al Arab. In Lisbon, Portugal, the 2024 International Young Sommeliers Competition takes place, while a glamorous gala dinner aboard the grand SS Victoria is happening in Amsterdam.
The Most Exclusive Culinary Club
Getting accepted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is like accessing the VIP golden gates of the most elite gastronomic club. Members are ultra-select folk belonging to the culinary community. Think: top chefs, world-class sommeliers, food critics, and restaurateurs. As Niles Crane would say, “It’s like a who’s who of the crème de la crème of the upper crust.”
Fortunately for mere mortals, membership is not just limited to professionals. Anyone can join La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, provided they demonstrate an absolute passion and palate for fine gastronomy. All prospective members must be sponsored by an existing member.
Once inducted, a hierarchy of ribbon-wearing members adds to its exclusivity and mystique. At the top sits the Bailli, the chapter president, responsible for overseeing the chapter’s activities and upholding the organization’s traditions. Next are the Dames and Damoiseaux, who support the Bailli in maintaining the chapter’s standards and values. The newest members are Chevaliers, who contribute their passion for food and wine to the chapter’s events.
Asheville La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs: A New Dawn
Spearheaded by a dedicated group of culinary enthusiasts, the La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, Bailliage de Asheville, was resurrected in March after a prolonged hiatus.
At the smart setting of Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Biltmore Village, anticipation hung thick in the air as members, guests, and aspiring gastronomes gathered to commemorate the resurgence.
What began as a simple gathering quickly evolved into a celebration of culinary passion and the bonds forged over shared experiences. On arrival, attendees were greeted with glasses of chilled Domaine Joillot NV Crémant de Bourgogne Cuvée Agnés, setting the tone for an evening of indulgence and conviviality. Against the backdrop of laughter and animated conversations, old friendships were rekindled, and new connections forged, all united by a shared love for exceptional cuisine and fine wines.
The evening was about welcoming new members into the fold, and with some careful dubbing of the ceremonial sword by new Bailli, Gloria Pignatiello, Larisa Locke was inducted as Dame de la Chaîne, Eva-Michelle Spicer as Dame de la Chaîne, Kenneth Pace as Chevalier, and Steve Pignatiello reinstated as Chevalier.
What does the Asheville chapter’s resurrection mean for the local foodie scene? “The relaunch of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs in Asheville embodies our commitment to creating a vibrant culinary community,” explains Bailli, Gloria Pignatiello. “We look forward to bringing food lovers together in a welcoming atmosphere, celebrating the culture of the table, and promoting the culinary expertise of local chefs.”
Join the Bailliage de Asheville Fold
If you’re a seasoned home chef, budding wine connoisseur, or gourmand who appreciates the finer things in life, Bailliage de Asheville offers a unique opportunity to indulge your love for gastronomy.
Pignatiello explains that they actively encourage new members. “We welcome food and wine enthusiasts of all kinds, whether they’re industry professionals or simply passionate aficionados.”
“Interested individuals can reach out to any Chaîne des Rôtisseurs member to express their interest, and hopefully, they will receive an invitation to join our community dedicated to culinary excellence.”
And what does Bailliage de Asheville’s culinary calendar have in store? It is back hosting fine dining events throughout the year, and the next one — a wine dinner — will take place on July 16 at Asheville’s Rhubarb restaurant.
Beyond showcasing your passion for gastronomy, joining Chaîne des Rôtisseurs opens the door to participating in national and international events. As a member, you’ll benefit from over 30 wine partnerships with wine discounts and programs, annual magazine subscriptions, and travel and luxury goods discounts.
Could the Bailliage de Asheville be your passport to culinary adventures and epicurean escapades? Absolutely. Let’s raise our glasses, indulge in the finest cuisine, and toast a future filled with gastronomic delights.
For more information visit Asheville.chaineus.org.