Le Jardin de France for La Chaine

CEBU, Philippines - Hosting the annual Chaine des Rotisseurs induction gala dinner can oftentimes be daunting, considering that the members expect nothing less than perfection.

Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa’s efficient General Manager Raymond Bragg flawlessly met the challenge with flying colors, in all aspects.

Promptly at 7:30, chilled champagne and wines were served to the members, their special guests and the 15 distinguished new inductees.

Bailli Delegue Magistral Donald Hall inducted Michel Lhuillier to the rank of Conseil Magistral and David Sharpe as Vice Enchanson of L’Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Degustateurs Cebu. Mingming Gullas was likewise inducted as an officer

The new members of the prestigious international gourmet club are Rosebud Sala, Alice Gauny, Carmen Campbell, June Alegrado, Ruby Guinto, Cenelyn Manguilimotan, Honeylet Thevenin, Kevin Boland, Stanley Combs, Richard Nowell, Shigehiro Onda, Harald Feuerstein, Paul Sharpe, Benjamin Dimaano and Grant Gaskin.

The property’s Executive Chef Emmanuel Guemon, an awardee of the Guide Michelin, meticulously and masterfully prepared a fabulous authentic French cuisine that was simply beyond everyone’s expectation.

Starters consisted of homemade Foie Gras Terrine and Balsamic Glazed Duck Breast with sweet and sour blueberry and raisin compote in bell pepper reduction. This was followed by pan-fried scallop with five spice liqueur, plum tomato and crab tian. The wine served was Riesling Leon Beyer Alsace 2002.

The Merlot Benzigner, Sonoma 2002 was perfect for the next course that consisted of mushroom veloute flavored with cognac and saffron cream chenille. This was followed by the exceptional oven baked Chilean sea bass crusted with black truffle and topped with asparagus sauce.

The excellent main course of basil and tapenade scented veal fillet cooked to perfection was served with Shiraz, Mitolo Jester, Mclaren Valley 2007.

Undoubtedly, the highlight of the evening was the surprise announcement of Hall that Michel and Amparito Lhuillier were recipients of the Star of Excellence award, one of the highest honors that the Chaine bestows on deserving individuals who have shown unequalled dedication to the club.    

Once again, it was another perfect evening to remember for years to come.