The Thailand Chapter was established as the 69th Chapter of the Chaîne in 1974 and has been an important part of an increasingly sophisticated and diverse culinary scene. The inaugural Gala Dinner was at the then Hilton Hotel on Silom Road in Bangkok. It was organised by the experienced Chef Werner Meister. Thirtyfour members and Committee members were installed. Rear Admiral M.L. Usni Pramoj, was elected as the first Bailli Délégué of the society.
At that time most of the members were professional members (hoteliers), who transferred their membership from other countries to the newly established Chapter in Thailand. Others were dignitaries and distinguished businessmen from Thai and foreign companies.
The Bailliage of Thailand is honoured that several members of the Thai Royal Family have joined the Chaîne and were our most prestigious members.
Over the years a considerable number of Ambassadors from various countries from all over the world have also joined our dinners and eventually became members.
The Chaine in Thailand was very lucky as in all these years we have had a succession of talented and energetic Bailli Délégués:
- Rear Admiral M.L. Usni Pramoj
- Mr. Robert Baruir Papazian
- Khun Pinit Sombatsiri
- Khun Pongthep Leenutapong
- Mr. Warren Gerig
- Khun Joe Thawilvejjakul
- Mr. Alan Kam
- Mr. Arto Artinian
- Mr. Finbarr O’Connor
There has always been keen interest from potential members to join the Chaine in Thailand, and over the years the Chapter has maintained a very healthy average of around 100 members. Today we are a cosmopolitan group of enthusiastic Ambassadors, amateur gastronomes and working professionals who enjoy good food and wine in each other’s company.
Many celebrated dinner events have been held including an overnight trip to the Bridge over the River Kwai using the Eastern & Oriental Express train, which was chartered by the Chaîne, a Captain’s Dinner on the Seabourne Spirit, a luxury liner, and memorable events at Ambassador’s residences, at member’s private homes, elegant restaurants and at many famous hotels.
Apart from the National Chapter in Bangkok there are also two Regional Chapters in Thailand. The Eastern Seaboard (Pattaya) Chapter was established in 1995 and the Phuket Chapter in 2003.
