On Saturday, May 17th, the grand Dusit Thani Bangkok played host to an exceptional evening of Chaîne tradition and culinary elegance. The Bailliage of Bangkok welcomed members from across Thailand and around the world for a memorable Chapitre and Gala Dinner. Attendees flew in from China, Macau, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and beyond. All of which transformed the evening into a true global gathering of the Chaîne family.

The Induction Ceremony began with an elegant procession. Everyone was seated when Bailli Délégué Joe Thawilvejakul, who is a Member of the Conseil d’Administration, entered the hall from the back with the Induction team. They proceeded to the stage in full regalia which set the tone for a ceremony rich in dignity and tradition.

Representing the leadership of the Chaîne in Thailand were:
- Bailli Délégué - Joe Thawilvejjakul
- Chancelier - Alessandro Haab
- Échanson - Robert Maurer Loeff
- Bailli of Rattanakosin - Molchaya Techapaibul
- Bailli of Maha Nakhon - Peter Windgasse
- Bailli of Eastern Seaboard - Raymond Whitely
- Bailli of Phuket - Kwanchai Aswawongsonti
- Bailli of Grand North - Aarya Surindhara

Kwanchai Aswawongsonti took the microphone as announcer and guided the proceedings with grace, precision and warmth during a ceremony which lasted over an hour.

At the reception the Dusit Thani culinary team delighted attendees with exquisite canapés paired with Champagne and white wines. The ambiance buzzed with animated conversation and laughter. The sight of a six-litre Ferrari Mathusalem, chilled and gleaming, set a tone of jubilant celebration.

The Gala Dinner commenced with a touching moment as Chaîne Silver Awards were presented to Carl Duggan, Bailli Honoraire of Eastern Seaboard, and to Yesenia Duggan, Vice-Chargée de Missions Honoraire of Eastern Seaboard, for their immense dedication to the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. This gesture was met with warm applause and admiration.

The evening’s “Giro d’Italia” theme unfolded through a meticulously curated menu by Andrea Susto, Executive Chef of Cannubi by Umberto Bombana, celebrating Italy’s rich culinary regions. Courses such as tuna tartare, pumpkin ravioli, and beef tenderloin dazzled both the palate and in presentation and were accompanied by exceptional wines like Alta Mora Etna Bianco and Les Crêtes from Valle d’Aosta.

After dinner, members and their guests were invited to an adjacent function room which had been transformed into a decadent ‘Italian dessert and digestivo’ lounge. A spectacular spread of cheeses and sweets awaited, alongside a curated selection of over 10 Italian aperitivo and digestivio which ranged from the silky Crema di Pistacchio di Sicilia to the complex and refined Barolo Chinato. All were proudly poured and presented by the service team behind the counter.

Laughter continued late into the evening as Phuket members led the crowd outdoors to a beautifully arranged terrace cigar lounge. Cuban cigars were enjoyed beneath the Bangkok night sky. A haze of camaraderie and fine smoke lingered in the air. It was an elegant end to a night of celebration, heritage, and indulgence.

From a stately procession to a spirited gala and a nightcap under the stars, the Bangkok Chapitre 2025 was truly one to remember. For the members near and far, it was a celebration of culinary excellence, international fellowship and a shared passion for the art of living well.

Vive la Chaîne!

Kwanchai Aswawongsonti
Bailli, Bailliage of Phuket