La Chaine's Year-End Gala

CEBU, Philippines - The Chaine des Rotisseurs year-end gala dinner is always the most awaited affair simply because the host venue, usually a hotel or resort, dreams, plans and executes an unforgettable and elegant program that highlights enjoyment of exquisite cuisine and wine.

The anticipation was even more enhanced as the members were eager to experience what Radisson Blu, Cebu’s newest luxury hotel, had to offer.

Michel Lhuillier, Bailli Delegue and Amparito Lhuillier, Bailli of Cebu along with perfectly chilled champagne and mostly never-seen-before hors d’oeuvres welcomed the members and guests who were all dressed in their finest, the ladies in beautiful evening gowns both classic and trendy and the gentlemen in tuxedos and black suits.

Guest of honor was Elizabeth Sy, president of SM Hotels.

Nothing prepared the over a hundred members, their spouses, international and domestic guests   for the spectacular setting and ambiance. The grand ballroom, decorated in winter white and shimmering silver, was true to the evening’s theme – Ice Dreams.

The five course well staged meal was masterfully created by a culinary team led by Executive Chef Ofir Yudilevich. The dinner started with lobster salad with XO sauce ice balloons accompanied by calamansi Vodka. It was followed by salmon brule with seared scallops marinated red onion and ricotta galette served with Torre Oria semi-secco from Spain. The spiced pumpkin soup with maple foam and pancetta was pleasing to the palate. Bourgogne Blanc Chardonnay from France was the perfect choice of wine.

The well balanced Laurus Rasteau, Grenache-Syrah, wine from South Rhone Valley complemented the main course of grilled rack of lamb on creamed polenta and balsamic semi dried tomato with citrus asparagus.

A dessert of warm fig tart with Muscat mascarpone and pictachio tuile was served with a glass of Hanepoot, from South Africa.

The Philippines’ premier soprano, multi talented Rachelle Gerodias dazzled everyone with her unique interpretation of classical and Broadway songs.  Marc Angel Gabriel and Katherine Trofeo of Ballet Philippines were flawless and had so much presence and grace when they danced a Nutcracker Pas de Deux. 

The evening’s entertainment included outstanding performances of the University of San Carlos Choristers, the Peace Double String Quartet and students of Ballet Center Cebu.

Radisson Blu General Manager Grant Gaskin left, as the often quoted cliché goes, “no stone unturned” to make this one of the most impressive dinner receptions ever. He truly succeeded. There is no question about it. (THE FREEMAN)