Welcome to the web site of the Houston Bailliage of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the world’s oldest gastronomic organization. It was originally founded in 1248 as a guild of rôtisseurs (roasting chefs) for the upper class. The society was revived in 1950 by a group of dedicated culinarians and gastronomes, and now boasts members in almost every country of the world. Unlike most gastronomic organizations, La Chaîne consists of members from both the professional and non-professional segments of the gastronomically-inclined population. Each local bailliage holds periodic formal and informal events at wonderful venues featuring the finest cuisine and expertly selected wines.

The Bailliage des Etats-Unis (United States Chapter) is by far the largest of all national chapters with over 7000 members in 149 local chapters in most major cities. Our own Houston Chapter, which celebrated its 25th Anniversary in 1999, was founded on May 13, 1974, now boasts close to 165 members, of which 25% are from the professional ranks. We have over 30 Chaîne establishments (hotels, restaurants, private clubs, catering business, food service operations, and beverage stores) that are entitled to display the Chaîne plaque.

Each year we have a diverse list of functions which includes our large formal dinners, our Dines Around Program, and l’Ordre Mondial events. Added to our year is usually a Chaîne Member trip, which has visited such sites as the Culinary Institute at Hyde Park, New York; the Culinary Institute at Cal-Davis; the 30th Anniversary Gala of the Mexico Chapter; Calgary, Canada, to participate in their local Chapitre in Jasper; and Chicago.

Vive La Chaîne,

State of the Bailliage

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