About The Chaine

The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is the world’s oldest international gastronomic society, founded in Paris in 1248. It is devoted to preserving the camaraderie and pleasures of the table and to promoting excellence in all areas of the hospitality arts. Each year the society sponsors young chef and sommelier competitions that attract contestants from throughout the world, while the Chaîne Foundation provides scholarships for students in these fields. Chaîne is based on the traditions and practices of the old French royal guild of meat roasters. Revived in 1950, the society has professional and amateur members in more than 70 countries worldwide. In the United States, there are nearly 150 bailliages (chapters), each offering a variety of culinary activities to suit the interests of local members.

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CHAÎNE MEMBERS ENJOY THEMSELVES:

• At local dinners, where chefs and vintners bring together the best of food and wine.

• At regional gatherings, where members network and experience the best a region has to offer. 

• At national conventions in cities where the future of food and wine is being charted now. 

• At international events, where old-world manners and impeccable cuisine bring members together in a spirit of camaraderie. 

• At spirited theme and elegant formal events. 

• At Société Mondiale du Vin gatherings, where members learn about and experience wines and other crafted beverages of distinction. 

• On Brillat-Savarin trips, where members immerse themselves in the traditional food and beverages of a region.

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The Richmond, Virginia Baillage of the Chaine de Roitisseurs was founded in 1979 by Master Chef Paul Elbling. Born in France during World War II Elbling dreamed of coming to America. After being trained in some of the most prestigious kitchens in France, including the Carlton in Cannes and George IV in Paris he earning his Master Chef credentials before moving to the United States in 1966.

 

In 1971 he opened La Petite France in Richmond with his wife Marie-Antoinette, earning the AAA Five Diamond Awards, two Gold Medals at the international Culinary Olympics, and setting the Guinness Book of World Records for largest omelet ever made. He also was recognized by the James Beard Foundation and received an honorary doctorate from Johnson & Wales University. 

 

Chef Paul was highly regarded and influential in the Richmond and American culinary community, personally sponsoring Julia Child's membership in the American Culinary Federation and Emeril Lagasse's application to culinary school. The annual Richmond culinary awards, The Elbys, are named in his honor.  

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Elbling was Bailli-Honoraire of The Richmond Baillage of The Chaine until his passing in 2023. His legacy lives on with the countless past and future gatherings of our members and continued support of the Richmond culinary scene. 

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From medieval roots to today's modern international gastronomic community, the Chaine de Roitisseurs in  Richmond strives to keep its members, this city and throughout Virginia connected to the best local and global cuisine.