La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs: "The Royal Guild of Goose Roasters"

A gastronomic tradition dating as far back as 1248, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs ("The Royal Guild of Goose Roasters") has come a long way from roasting geese!

An internationally renowned gastronomic society so prestigious it once had its own coat of arms, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an invitation-only membership organization for individuals and institutions possessing world-class culinary acumen. Among nearly 21,000 members from 75 countries, I was honored to be inducted into La Chaîne in 2018 as a Professionnel du Vin.

While on my river cruise through France last week, I was thrilled to attend the exquisite La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs dinner hosted by AmaWaterways. On every sailing, AmaWaterways’ talented chefs prepare a lovely tasting menu for all guests to enjoy. AmaWaterways and its President Rudi Schreiner were extended membership in 2011 at a black tie ceremony in Austria’s stunning Salzburg Residenz palace. It was the first time a cruise line had ever been extended membership—and if you’ve indulged in their extraordinary, regionally inspired cuisine, it should come as no surprise!

Every year, members around the world participate in World Chaîne Day (today!). On this special day of recognition and unity, they wear their induction collars, unite at member restaurants for celebratory dinners and visit local culinary institutes. There is also a mouthwatering photo competition!

It All Started with Geese

Membership is comprised of chefs, restaurant owners and gourmands (as well as all of AmaWaterways ships in Europe) who all share a passion for the finest food and spirits. Not unlike military stripes, members are given ribbon collars that reflect their rank and career. Each proudly displays the La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs seal, which surrounds a centuries-old coat of arms derived from the Royal Guild of Goose Roasters.

Founded in France in the year 1248 under the direction of Étienne Boileau, the Provost of Paris, the Guild was primarily focused on developing young apprentices and improving members’ professional skills so they could produce cuisine befitting of the “Royal Table.” This likely meant either curing the geese or slow roasting at low temperatures—the ancient confit technique, in which unused meat was then preserved in jars filled with fat to be used later. Renamed Rôtisseurs in 1509 and gaining its coat of arms just over a century later, the Guild was disbanded during the French Revolution—where it remained forgotten until La Confrérie de la Chaîne de Rôtisseurs was resurrected in 1950.

Growing More than Just Appetites

Something of a co-ed fraternity for the culinary elite, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is divided up into chapters from Texas to Toronto to Thailand and beyond, and each hosts local events where members get together and—what else?—enjoy incredible food and wine as they learn, grow and gain inspiration from one another’s gastronomic accomplishments. The society also hosts international competitions for young chefs and sommeliers and even has its own registered charity, the Association Caritative de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, which is dedicated to nourishing and improving the living conditions of people in need, particularly children.

In addition to celebrated chefs, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs also inducts renowned vintners, sommeliers and wine industry professionals. For those with a special interest in wine, the Société Mondiale du Vin was created to promote the enjoyment, knowledge and understanding of fine wines and crafted beverages.

If you are interested in learning more about this incredible organization, send me a note - I would be happy to share my experience.

Santé!