Why Join the Chaîne?
Why join the Chaîne?
If you are interested in joining the Chaîne, it may be that you attended a dinner or were enjoying a good glass of wine with some of our members. Wherever it was, if you contact us we will put you on our mailing list and explore ways of joining a great group of food lovers here in Phuket. Our Intronization Ceremony — where we formally present your Chaîne and complete your new member process — usually occurs in April/May each year. This and the OMGD dinner are the only Black Tie events in Phuket. All other events are relatively casual with a smart resort casual dress code.
What is the history of the Chaîne?
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an organization that dates back almost 800 years to 1248 in Paris. The Chaîne disappeared during the French Revolution but rose again in 1950. The Chaîne in Thailand was established over 40 years ago and in Phuket over 20 years ago. People who belong to the Chaîne enjoy good food and wine, as well as the ambiance and camaraderie of the table. Around 7,000 members globally are professional members and about 18,000 are non-professional members — they simply enjoy being in the company of those who appreciate good food and wine.
Yes, but there are lots of wine dinners in Phuket?
As a Chaîne member you are part of a global fraternity of over 25,000 members spread across more than 80 countries, with many branches within each country. In Thailand, apart from Phuket, there are also chapters in Bangkok, Pattaya, and beyond. You are entitled as a member to attend Chaîne functions anywhere in the world — London, Paris, Milan, New York, Sydney, Tokyo, Singapore, or Hong Kong.
How do I find out about dinners and events?
Our dinners are posted at least a month ahead on our website and circulated on Facebook. After each dinner we prepare a report and post photos of the event on the website.
Isn't the Chaîne too stuffy and formal?
Dress is resort casual, and whilst we aim to hold about 9 events a year, resort casual is the typical sensible dress style in tropical Phuket. Some people are reluctant to join as they believe we are too stuffy or formal — but if you look at the photos from each of our dinners on our website, you will see just how informal and relaxed our events are. See upcoming events.
So what are the fees?
The first year of membership costs 18,000 / 24,000 baht and if your partner or spouse also wants to join the additional cost is 20,000 baht. This covers the cost of your "Chaîne" (sometimes called the Ribbon) — the Chaîne regalia. Membership is for a calendar year, but if you join after September there are no further membership fees due until the following year. In the second and subsequent years the cost is 6,000 / 8,000 baht and for your partner, 6,500 baht.
How do I attend a dinner?
We suggest you look at our website in detail, especially the photos from recent dinners, to see the casual nature of the group and understand the different types of food and wine we have enjoyed. Then come along and attend some dinners as a guest. Simply email office@chainephuket.com and a council member will invite you. We look forward to seeing you at one of our events soon.