Les Marmitons

Les Marmitons is an international organization of amateur chefs or "foodies" that meet usually once monthly to discuss food and wine and to prepare a gourmet meal under the guidance of a visiting professional chef. The organization is structured as a club and has no formal charitable purpose, although several Marmiton clubs generate charitable donations through club activities and/or participate in charitable or social causes.

The tradition of a group of gentlemen inviting master chefs to lead them in preparing elaborate meals began in Europe many years ago, and was introduced to North America almost twenty years ago by Swiss immigrants. The word "marmiton" is French and means a kitchen boy, or chef's helper.

The first North American Chapter of Les Marmitons was established in Montreal in 1977. Since then, the interest in learning more about fine cuisine has led to the founding of clubs in Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary, New Jersey, Quebec City, Atlanta, Niagara Falls, and Barrie; a Winnipeg chapter was formed in the spring of 2006. Members of any one Chapter are always welcome to attend regular gatherings of any other Chapter - a welcome membership feature for those who may travel between club cities.

A typical regular event of Les Marmitons begins around one in the afternoon as members gather to enjoy a pre-dinner glass of wine, meet the guest Chef and hear the Chef explain the gourmet menu created for the evening.

Teams of members are then formed and each team assumes the responsibility to prepare one of the courses and to serve it to the members and the guest Chef.

During preparation, the Chef moves throughout the kitchen providing guidance to each team. Team members for one course also have ample opportunity to learn the technique and special preparation tips for the other courses.

Except for some final, finishing touches, the major preparation is completed by 8:30 and accompanied by a wine that has been specially selected to enhance each course, members sit to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

During the meal, the preparation and presentation of each course is explained by the team and the Chef provides additional comment and constructive critique. Over a relaxing coffee at the end of the meal, the guest Chef provides his final summation and members show their appreciation for the creativity, professionalism and freely given time to the Chef. A quick cleanup brings the evening to a close about eleven o'clock.

Club membership is limited to 100 members per chapter. Chapters exist in Canada, France, England, and the United States.