French cuisine being celebrated in Seychelles

On March 19, for the first time ever, Seychelles will honor its European roots and take part in “Go？t de France/Good France,” a French culinary event celebrated around the world.

Using fresh, seasonal, local products, each chef in Seychelles, along with over 1,300 more from around the world will offer a “French-style” signature menu in their restaurants. The dishes on the menu will showcase the vibrancy, openness, and innovative techniques that define French cuisine. And it will also give the chefs an opportunity to show off their talents, expertise, and creativity.

This should include a traditional French aperitif, a cold starter, a hot starter, fish or shellfish, meat or poultry, a French cheese (or cheeseboard), a chocolate dessert, French wines and digestives, while remaining free to highlight their own culinary traditions and cultures.

To date, five restaurants have confirmed their participation, and they are Sainte Anne Resort & Spa, Banyan Tree Seychelles, Le Constance Lemuria, Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove, and Botanica restaurant.

This event was launched in France by Alain Ducasse and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Development. It received its inspiration from Auguste Escoffier, who launched the Epicurean Dinners initiative - the same menu, the same day, in several world cities in 1912.

The gastronomic meal of the French has been on the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage list since 2010. In Alain Ducasse’s own words: “French cuisine is the interpreter of a cuisine that has evolved towards lightness in harmony with its environment. … The common point of this event is generosity, sharing, and the love of what is beautiful and tastes good.”

The French embassy working in close collaboration with the Seychelles Tourism Board are responsible for the launch of this event in Seychelles, inviting chefs and ensuring that Good France gets due publicity.

The menu’s price is at the restaurant’s discretion, but with so many restaurants having already confirmed their participation, there will surely be a range of prices, making this event accessible to people from all walks of life.

Patrons should book early to ensure that this event turns into a success story and hopefully remains a staple on the Seychelles events calendar.