In Belgium, we like to say that good things come in small packages - and our Bailliage is living proof. Though small in size, we are a vibrant, close-knit community with an outsized love for gastronomy, camaraderie, and tradition. This spirit was on full display as we kicked off the coaching journey of our 2026 Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs competitor, Tom Moreau.

On the very first day at Restaurant Abstrait in Namur, the air was alive with the clatter of pans, the perfume of fresh herbs, and the quiet concentration of a young chef determined to learn. At his side stood Rôtisseur Kenzo Li, the restaurant’s owner who is our master coach and a former Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs competitor for Belgium. He knows all too well the excitement, discipline and creativity this path demands.

Thanks to the steadfast support of our partners Sligro and Verstegen, Tom is now embarking on an intensive programme - not just to refine his technique, but to embrace the essence of the Chaîne: respect for tradition, openness to innovation, and the joy of sharing great food with great people.

Our Bailliage may not boast the numbers of larger nations, but what we have is a family-like closeness and a determination to show the world the richness of our culinary heritage. Each coaching session is a reminder that our future is in good hands - and that the next chapter of Belgian gastronomy will be written by young talents like Tom.

So, as Tom’s journey unfolds, we invite the Chaîne family worldwide to share in our pride, our passion, and our excitement. Because here in Belgium, every dish is a story, and this one is just getting started.

Vive la Chaîne! Vive la Belgique!! Vive nos jeunes talents!!!

Ilse Duponcheel
Bailli Délégué
Member of the Conseil Magistral

Restaurant Abstrait
Chaussée de Waterloo 315
5002 Namur

Web: www.abstrait.restaurant
Tel: +32 471 74 65 41