RPAYC Celebrates Bastille Day with a Spectacular Chef’s Table Dinner
RPAYC in Newport, lovingly known as The Alfred’s, celebrated Bastille Day with an extraordinary Chef’s Table dinner that drew a full house. The event, held on the evening of July 14, transformed the club’s dining area into a vibrant culinary arena, filled with members and guests eager to indulge in French gastronomy.
Head-Chef Sara Paul and her team, curated a selection of exquisite dishes that paid homage to the rich and diverse culinary heritage of France. The evening began by the fire, with drinks in the Edinburgh Bar and Lounge, setting the tone for what was to be a night of gastronomic delight.
A Feast for the Senses
The dinner commenced with an hors d’oveuvres of house made pate served with cornichons and toasted brioche. This was followed by a beautifully presented entree of traditional French onion soup of gently fried and cooked onions, topped with toasted cheese gratineed croutons, which showcased the chef’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity.
For the main course, guests were treated to a choice of classic confit duck with spiced caramel potato fondants and asparagus or Blue Eye Cod on seafood bisque with grilled Australian prawn, potato galette and French beans. Each dish was prepared with the finest ingredients and cooked to perfection.
To conclude the meal, decadent desserts of Apple Tarte Tatin with caramelized apples and buttery pastry and fresh whipped cream, or a Crème Brulee with framboise raspberries providing a sweet and satisfying end to the culinary journey. Throughout the evening, each course was accompanied by a suggested pairing of carefully selected French wines, enhancing the flavours of the dishes and adding to the overall dining experience.
A Memorable Celebration
The event was not only a celebration of French cuisine but also of French culture. The dining area was adorned with blue, white, and red decorations, and French music played softly in the background early in the evening, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a Parisian bistro. The club’s members and guests mingled, shared stories, and savoured each bite, making for an evening filled with camaraderie and joie de vivre.
Speaking about the event, Chef Sara Paul said, “Bastille Day is a time to celebrate the spirit of France, and what better way to do that than through its food? I’m thrilled that so many people came to enjoy the dinner and experience a little piece of French culture here at RPAYC”
The success of the Bastille Day Chef’s Table dinner has set a high bar for future culinary events at RPAYC. With a full house and rave reviews from attendees, the club is already looking forward to its next gastronomic celebration.
The next Chef’s table, and final one in this series, is scheduled for 9 August and will be a celebration of modern Australian cuisine. For more information about upcoming events at RPAYC, visit www.rpayc.com.au/events