About the Chaîne

Founded in Paris in 1950, the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an international gastronomic society is devoted to promoting fine dining and preserving the camaraderie and pleasures of the table. The Chaîne is based on the traditions and practices of "Les Ayers," the old French royal guild (corporation in French) of goose roasters, birds that were particularly appreciated in that epoch. The authority of "Les Ayers," whose written history has been traced back to the year 1248, gradually expanded to the roasting of all poultry, meat and game. 

In 1610, the corporation was granted a royal charter and coat of arms, which consists of two crossed turning spits and four larding needles, surrounded by flames of the hearth on a shield encircled by fleur-de-lis and a chain representing the mechanism used to turn the spit. The outer chain, along with the legend, was added in 1950 to represent the bond which unites the members of our society.

Today, the society has members in more than 70 countries around the world. In the U.S., there are over 120 bailliages (English "bailiwick"), each headed by a bailli ("bailiff") and other officers who plan the individual chapters' activities. The U.S. society is governed by a national Board of Directors and a National Council which, in general, follow the programs and policies set forth by the international society headquartered in Paris.

About Delaware Valley

The DELAWARE VALLEY BAILLIAGE is a relatively new chapter of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the most venerable and prestigious international organization dedicated to the enjoyment of good food and wine in the warm company of friends.  Founded in 2001 by the well-known and respected Chaine leader, Pair de la Chaine Russell Baum, our Bailliage has successfully expanded both its membership and its programs. Our members, from all around the region and representing diverse backgrounds, are lovers of superb food and wine and are also some of the best chefs in the area and in the country.  The Delaware Valley Bailliage emphasizes the camaraderie among our members while enjoying the pleasures of the table! Our Charter members have enjoyed the warm friendship of other Chaine members for years. New members are warmly welcomed into the fold, and their participation is embraced, from attendance at events to contributions to the chapter's event planning.

The Officers and the Board have developed an event calendar that is both exciting and educational. We provide an interesting variety of dinner events, ranging from classic menus to cutting edge and ethnic cuisines.  Interspersed are special events such as wine tastings and picnics.  We even present formal events, such as induction ceremonies and an annual Holiday celebration.  Communication with members is ongoing, through the use of e-newsletters and e-vites. 

The Delaware Valley Chaine is a vibrant, entertaining, dynamic and enjoyable outlet for those interested in good food and wine in convivial company.  We are a growing chapter and invite everyone who is interested in finding out more about our Bailliage to contact me by e-mail at matthewkarstetter@gmail.com or any of the Officers and Board Members. We look forward to meeting you!

Vive la Chaine!
Matt Karstetter, Bailli