Relais & Châteaux and its chefs act to save the oceans

On 8th June, Relais & Châteaux will celebrate UN-recognized World Oceans Day for the 3rd year in a row. In partnership with Ethic Ocean, Relais & Châteaux chefs around the world will offer sustainable seafood menus. Zornitza Family Estate Relais & Châteaux’s restaurant, aEstivum will participate with a 4-course menu with shrimp and turbot and Dover Sole. The ocean is our universal larder, providing sustenance to every part of our planet. This is a time for Relais & Châteaux to pay tribute to the sea and heighten people’s awareness of the important role they play, in a grand celebration called “Exquisite Fish.”

The oceans’ fragile balance is being gradually destroyed: 31% of the planet’s seafood stock is overfished, and 58% is fully fished (Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations, 2016). But by choosing sustainable species, promoting ethical fishing methods, contributing to local economic development and offering seasonal menus, Relais & Châteaux chefs aim to protect our oceans’ biodiversity and provide quality products for its guests and future generations. Chefs play a key role in that they set culinary trends and can influence both suppliers and consumers. Indeed, chefs and restaurateurs took an important role and contributed to save Bluefin tuna in the Mediterranean Sea.

It is clear that the impact of climate change also poses new constraints to the food chain. For Philippe Gombert, International President, “Relais & Châteaux properties serve as watchmen, protectors of that which is most precious to the region, pathfinders who open the door to the cuisine of the future with responsibility and commitment.”