Meet the Woman Leading Memphis’s Oldest Gastronomic Society
What do centuries-old culinary clubs, unforgettable dinners, and a trailblazing Memphis woman have in common? If that woman is Pamela Hauber, the answer is — plenty! The first female president of the Memphis Chapter of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs gives us her take on time-honored traditions around the dining table. Image: Cheryl and Don Taddia.
You don’t have to be a foodie to pull up a chair with Pamela Hauber. As the first female president of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Memphis chapter, an international gastronomic society with nearly 25,000 members in more than 75 countries, Pamela is honoring a centuries-old tradition while bringing her own fresh perspective to the table. Whether she’s introducing newcomers to the art of exceptional dining or helping preserve a rich culinary legacy, find out why Pamela believes the best memories are made with food and friends.
For readers who are new to it, how would you describe the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs?
The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is the oldest gastronomic society in the world. Our mission is to promote camaraderie and exceptional food, wine, and crafted beverage experiences, while promoting the education and artistry of our professional members.
The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is a national/international organization. Chaîne Memphis is our local Balliage (chapter).
How did you first discover the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs?
I was introduced to the Chaîne during my first house-hunting weekend in Memphis. Our brother-in-law was a member, and my husband was inducted into the organization 24 years ago. It was a predominantly male organization at the time.
I was inducted in 2009. Chaîne Memphis had approximately 32 members when I joined the board. Although membership fluctuates, we currently have approximately 60 members.
And now you’re the first female president of the Memphis chapter. What does that milestone mean to you?
You know, being the first female Bailli of Chaîne Memphis encouraged a lot of other women to join. I think it was a comfort level. We are a diverse group, which I enjoy, and it is as it should be.
What is one aspect of the job you find unexpectedly rewarding?
Placecard setting can be very challenging. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seating people together, watching them enjoy a fabulous evening, and seeing them become friends outside of the Chaîne.
When you’re choosing a restaurant for a special night out, what qualities are non-negotiable?
We focus on pairing great food with fabulous wines. We happily share where the wines can be purchased locally and our favorite importer. The Chaîne focuses on eating the food as the chef prepares it. Salt and pepper are not on the table.
Finally, our board’s goal is for Chaîne Memphis to be representative of our city. Our events and dinners have to be fun!
Food has a way of bringing people together. What is a favorite memory that happened around a table?
We were having dinner at Parole Restaurante in Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico. The food and table service were divine. All of a sudden, a man in a chef’s uniform with a red neck scarf began singing and touring around the very large restaurant. The hostesses had sort of Roman goddess-type dresses on. They came to our table first, took my hand, and many guests joined in, dancing around the restaurant.
Memphis has such a unique food scene. What deserves a standing ovation?
Memphis has a wonderful food scene with so many talented chefs. It’s an honor when they agree to have Chaîne Memphis for dinner. The chefs are the creatives, so I encourage them to create the menu they want to use to promote their restaurant to 60 Memphians.
What’s one food you’ll happily splurge on every time and one you’ll politely pass on?
Jumbo lump crab is a favorite; I pass on Foie gras.
Complete this sentence: Every memorable dinner needs __.
Engaging table conversation. Conviviality of the table is a must!
What do you do when you’re not planning unforgettable dining experiences?
I play tennis on a few teams and help with administering a family foundation. Chaîne Memphis is time-consuming but a labor of love.
What are some of your other passions?
My passions include Theatre Memphis (I’m on the board) and Church Health. I’ve been a Live at the Garden supporter for many years, and I’m proud to support free music at Overton Park Shell and the mission of Memphis Heritage.
I love football, particularly the Pittsburgh Steelers and the University of Alabama — both my kids are grads.
Finally, we always ask: what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten, and from whom?
“You can do anything you want as long as you try hard enough.” — Bill and Jean Hauber
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Do you prefer sweet or savory treats? Both, but good chocolate is killer.
Coffee or tea? Both. I enjoy a great cappuccino and love green tea.
Wine or a cocktail? Hmmm, both. However, as you can imagine, the answer is typically wine.
Three things you’re never caught without? A wine opener, my phone, and tissues.
Bucket list vacation destination? Vatican City.
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Visit our FACES archives to meet more inspiring women from Memphis and across the South.
Gaye Swan
As a professional writer of over 20 years, Gaye is an avid traveler and enjoys highlighting food, culture, and attractions around the South. While Gaye is passionate about life in Memphis, she grew up in Meridian and is still a Mississippi girl at heart.