The Art of Table Setting: a signature of Luxury Hospitality
5 February 2025 2025-02-20 18:44The Art of Table Setting: a signature of Luxury Hospitality
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The Art of Table Setting: a signature of Luxury Hospitality
In the demanding world of luxury hospitality, the art of tableware holds a central place. More than just a service, it embodies a true art of living—an elegant staging where every detail contributes to an unforgettable experience. Franck Roublique, a professor at LH and a recognized expert with 45 years of experience in restaurant service, shares his insights on the evolution and significance of this heritage.
A Heritage in Motion
Far from being frozen in time, restaurant service has undergone profound transformations over the decades. “Since the 1980s, access to high-end establishments has become more democratized, and restaurant service has become more flexible. The recent return of carving, flambéing, and table-side preparations has restored the appeal, interactivity, and highlighted the expertise of staff,” explains Franck Roublique.
This evolution marks a return to the fundamentals, where mastery of gesture and precision in service create a truly sensory experience for the client. It is this dimension that sets luxury hospitality and dining apart: a celebration of French craftsmanship and traditions, reinterpreted with modernity.
The Art of Living à la Française
In the most prestigious establishments, service goes beyond a mere meal; it becomes a journey through “the French Art of Living.” “Luxury hospitality and dining offer a genuine journey, thanks in part to our companies in cutlery, glassware, porcelain, textiles, as well as the expertise of our winemakers, farmers, and many others.”
This excellence relies on an ecosystem where each player—from artisans to producers—contributes to the creation of a unique moment. Through these skills, an entire culture is expressed, showcasing French elegance and refinement around the world.
An Essential Transmission
The art of service cannot exist without the transmission of knowledge and values. Franck Roublique, who has worked in iconic establishments such as the Hôtel de Crillon, the Ritz, the George V, the Paul Bocuse restaurant in Lyon, the Auberge de l’Ill in Alsace, and the Palais de l’Élysée, places great importance on sharing his experience with younger generations.
“Working in this category of establishments instills strong values like discipline, teamwork, craftsmanship, and sharing,” he emphasizes. Today, he is fully dedicated to Luxury Hotelschool, where he mentors and trains Bachelor students, helping to nurture and develop the talents of tomorrow.
Humanity at the Heart of the Experience
While technique and service perfection remain paramount, it is the human element that truly makes the difference. “Beyond the essential techniques and best practices required for quality service, I believe it is crucial to emphasize human relationships at the heart of service. To me, it is this aspect that will make all the difference in the future, offering a truly extraordinary experience.”
Thus, in a world where excellence is measured by the emotions it evokes in the client, luxury hospitality continues to elevate the art of tableware to an exceptional level, ensuring that every moment becomes an unforgettable memory.