The National Bailliage joined gourmet enthusiasts around the world to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and World Chaîne Day 2025.

Under the gracious leadership of Bailli Délégué Miss Betsy B. Mathieson, the Bailliage - established more than 45 years ago - hosted a glittering celebration at the Intercontinental Hotel Bahrain. The evening brought together some 65 members and distinguished guests for a culinary journey themed “French Classics Revisited”. The meticulously curated menu paid homage to France’s rich gastronomic heritage, blending timeless elegance with modern flair.

In her welcome remarks, Miss Mathieson lauded the enduring spirit of camaraderie and passion that defines the Bailliage of Bahrain, which proudly organizes up to nine exceptional events each year. “Tonight, we celebrate not only the legacy of the Chaîne but also the vibrant community we’ve built in Bahrain - one that cherishes excellence in cuisine, fellowship, and L’Art de la Table”, she said.

Adding prestige to the occasion was a special address from His Excellency Eric Giraud-Telme, the French Ambassador to Bahrain and himself a devoted member of the Chaîne.

His Excellency opened his speech by saying, “I am truly delighted to be here with you tonight for this remarkable gathering and to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Allow me first to express my sincere thanks to our hosts, to the organizers of this dinner and to the chefs and their teams whose dedication has made this event possible. First and foremost, I would like to convey my gratitude to our Bailli Délégué, Betsy Mathieson, whose dedication to the Chaîne is incomparable.”

After reviewing the history of the Chaîne he moved on to gastronomy both French and Bahraini, “French gastronomy, of course, holds a unique and celebrated place in our culture. In 2010, “The Gastronomic Meal of the French” was inscribed on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Because beyond enjoying quality products and showcasing our regions and local traditions, “eating French” also means openness to the world, sharing, and conviviality.

Likewise, Bahraini cuisine - rich in history and flavour - deserves greater recognition on the global stage. Deeply rooted in the traditions of the Gulf and influenced by Persian and Indian cultures, the dishes of Bahrain offer a remarkable culinary journey. From machboos to muhammar to Bahraini tikka, Bahraini food tells a story of heritage and cross-cultural exchange - ready to be discovered by a wider audience.”

In conclusion His Excellency congratulated the Bailliage, “Under the leadership of Betsy Mathieson, the Bailliage of Bahrain perfectly embodies this [gastronomic] mission, and I would like to warmly thank them for their dedication. Among its distinguished members is Younis Ramadhan Ali, the first Bahraini Executive Chef to lead the kitchen of a five-star hotel, an inspiring symbol of growing local culinary talent. The Bailliage of Bahrain plays an active role in celebrating local cuisine and fostering international exchange. I offer my congratulations to the Bailliage of Bahrain for its vitality and engagement. Thank you once again for your warm welcome. I wish you all a wonderful evening and an excellent dinner.”

The evening was a fitting tribute to 75 years of culinary excellence and international fellowship, reflecting the Chaîne’s motto: “Jeunesse, Cuisine, Culture.” The Bailliage of Bahrain continues to embody these ideals with passion and sophistication, and looks forward to many more years of celebrating the pleasures of the table.

Prepared by a Chaîne News Online Staff Writer from a Press Release issued by the Bailliage of Bahrain on April 29, 2025