In a dazzling evening beneath the iconic dome of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, French chocolate maker Valrhona hosted Le Fil Rouge, an immersive celebration of chocolate as a bridge between culture, craftsmanship and connection. Held on April 22 under the patronage of Sheikha Alyazia Bint Nahyan Al Nahyan, the event brought together over 250 chefs, artists and industry leaders from across the Middle East, Africa and Europe.

The evening began with a private tour of the Kings and Queens of Africa exhibit, sponsored by Valrhona, tracing cocoa’s historic ties to power and heritage. Guests then experienced a six-course dinner crafted by top regional chefs, including Brice Konan-Ferrand and Carmen Rueda, who created desserts that blended storytelling with flavor—like a rose-shaped creation using Valrhona’s Organic Ivory Coast 56%.

More than a gastronomic showcase, Le Fil Rouge featured immersive activations like the Cocoa Room, Chocolate Essence Bar, and a symbolic chocolate forge made with Balinese artisan bricks—highlighting global collaboration and sustainable craftsmanship. “Chocolate is a universal language,” said Olivier Morel, Valrhona’s Chief Business Officer. “It connects people, cultures and ideas.”

The event underscored Valrhona’s growing footprint in the IMEA region and its commitment to sustainable sourcing and chef empowerment. As culinary storytelling takes center stage in the region, Le Fil Rouge proved that food—when artfully presented—can foster true cultural exchange.