The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs in Ghana, in partnership with Peru, has brought together members of the diplomatic community, hospitality industry stakeholders and food enthusiasts for a special social brunch celebrating the power of culinary diplomacy.
Held on November 1, 2026, at Saint Pablo Restaurant in Accra, the event was organised by Chaîne des Rôtisseurs in association with Saint Pablo Restaurant, with the participation of the Embassy of Peru. The gathering provided guests with an opportunity to experience the richness of Peruvian cuisine while exploring how food can foster cultural understanding, strengthen relationships and build connections across borders.
The brunch featured a specially curated four-course Peruvian menu prepared by guest chef Julio Castillo. It brought together Heads of Mission, members of the international community, hoteliers and other stakeholders for an afternoon of gastronomy, music, networking and fellowship.
Taking Peruvian Gastronomy to the Classroom
Beyond the social brunch, guest chef Julio Castillo also conducted a culinary masterclass at RIUC Culinary School, offering students and invited guests an immersive journey into the rich flavours, distinctive techniques and cultural traditions of Peruvian gastronomy.
The masterclass provided participants with an opportunity to explore the ingredients, preparation methods and culinary influences that have shaped Peru's international gastronomic reputation. Globally recognised as one of the world's leading culinary destinations, Peru has earned considerable acclaim for its diverse cuisine, which reflects a rich blend of indigenous traditions and international influences.
The session also offered aspiring culinary professionals the opportunity to learn directly from the guest chef, gaining practical insights into the artistry, innovation and techniques behind Peruvian cuisine.
Beyond the technical lessons, the initiative underscored the educational value of culinary diplomacy, demonstrating how gastronomy can facilitate cultural exchange, transfer knowledge and inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Food: A Universal Language of Diplomacy
Addressing the gathering, Rosa Liliana Gomez, Ambassador of Peru to Ghana, highlighted the unifying power of food, describing it as a universal language capable of bringing people together regardless of nationality or cultural background.
In an interview with Diplomatic Affairs, the Ambassador drew a comparison between food and football, noting that both possess a unique ability to transcend borders, cultural differences and national identities.
She also highlighted the cordial relations between Ghana and Peru, as the two countries prepare to mark 40 years of diplomatic relations in 2027. Established in 1987, the relationship provides a strong foundation for further cooperation, cultural exchange and people-to-people engagement.
The event offered a fitting expression of that friendship, using Peruvian cuisine as a platform to deepen appreciation of the country's cultural identity while strengthening diplomatic connections.
Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and the Private Sector's Role in Diplomacy
John Maddison, Head of Mission for Chaîne des Rôtisseurs in Ghana, underscored the importance of partnerships between the private sector and governments, particularly through diplomatic missions, in creating opportunities that deliver wider societal benefits.
He explained that the organisation's activities extend beyond gastronomy, contributing to international relations through culinary excellence, cultural appreciation, fellowship and engagement among people from different backgrounds.
He further emphasised the importance of bringing businesses, diplomatic missions and other stakeholders together to identify opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefit.
Through initiatives such as the social brunch, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs continues to demonstrate how gastronomy can serve as an avenue for meaningful engagement between the diplomatic community and the private sector.
Multiculturalism and Unity in Diversity
The High Commissioner of Canada to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, who attended the gathering, also shared reflections on multiculturalism, inclusivity and the importance of embracing diversity.
Her remarks highlighted the value of societies and institutions creating spaces where different cultures can interact, learn from one another and work towards common objectives.
The gathering provided such a platform, bringing together people of different nationalities and professional backgrounds around a shared appreciation of food, culture and human connection.
Culinary Diplomacy as Soft Power
Beyond the dining experience, the brunch demonstrated the growing relevance of culinary diplomacy as an instrument of soft power.
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Through the promotion of national cuisines, countries can communicate their heritage, values and cultural identities while building relationships that extend beyond formal diplomatic engagements.
For Peru, the occasion provided an opportunity to showcase its rich culinary heritage to Ghana's diplomatic and hospitality communities. For Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and Saint Pablo Restaurant, it reinforced the role of gastronomy and hospitality in creating platforms for cultural exchange, networking and collaboration.
The addition of the culinary masterclass at RIUC Culinary School further demonstrated how such initiatives can extend their impact beyond diplomatic and social circles to include education, professional development and knowledge sharing.
As Ghana and Peru approach four decades of diplomatic relations, initiatives of this nature offer fresh opportunities to strengthen bilateral friendship through culture, business and people-to-people engagement.
When food becomes diplomacy, the dining table becomes a bridge between nations.
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