A Chaine Christmas

CEBU, Philippines - The Chaine des Rotisseurs, Cebu chapter held a Christmas Ball dinner at the  Salon de España of the Casino Español de Cebu as their culminating event  for the 2012 calendar program.

Bailli Delegue Philippines, Michel Lhuillier, together with Bailli de Cebu Amparito Lhuillier and members of the board, Teresin Mendezona, David Sharpe,  Winglip Chang,  Alvan Claude Evangelio, and  Nestor Alonso, in strictly formal attire enthusiastically welcomed members and guests exchanging pleasantries as champagne brut blanc de blanc was generously served with delectable appetizers.

The well-executed five-course menu commenced with sautéed scallops on bramata polenta with mascarpone and bacon. This was accompanied by Michel Lhuillier Chardonnay 2011, a distinctively fine white  with subtle aroma and a perfectly balanced taste of fresh ripe citrus fruit. Then came consommé double of ostrich with chicken involtini filled with parma ham and lemon.

Fresh watermelon and cider flavored sorbet was the prelude to the main course of herb infused braised wagyu beef on sun ripened tomatoes with black mustard. Cotes du Rhone Villages 2010 with a unique bouquet of apricots and orchard fruits  was the perfect match.   

To wrap up a fabulous gastronomic experience, a dessert of apricot gianduja strudel with sesame and lemon, basil parfait on iced raspberry soup was served.

The evenings festive entertainment was provided by the gifted scholars of the Amparito Lllamas Lhuillier Educational foundation. Cebuana singer and actress Anna Fegi, a former scholar, with her powerful voice and high vocal range rendered popular Christmas songs that enchanted the guests.    

Several dedicated Chaine members were recognized for  perfect attendance. They included Plantation Bay Resort’s general manager Efren Belarmino, Victoria Hermosisima, Charles Michael Smith, Stella Bernabe and  Jennie Aclan. Vice – charge de presse Alvan Claude Evangelio was acknowledged for his dedication to the organization since its founding in Cebu twenty years ago.

In accordance with tradition, the elegant evening graciously concluded with the recognition of talented and efficient individuals such as club general manager May Ocaba, F & B Director, Marina Codina, club executive chef Nicolas Rafols, guest chef  Carsten Radke and Banquet Manager Domingo Amisola whose attention to detail and impeccable service created the fitting ambience for this outstanding event.