The Slow Food Monaco, Riviera & Côte d’Azur Convivium marked its 25th anniversary on Friday, September 5, with an evening dedicated to Mediterranean gastronomy, sustainability and solidarity.
The terraces of the Meridien Beach Plaza provided the backdrop as around 250 guests gathered to honour a quarter-century of the movement’s presence in the Principality. Among the attendees were His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco and the Italian Ambassador, HE Manuela Ruosi, who joined supporters for a night of authentic flavours and shared values.
Curated by Antonio Fochi, vice president of the Monaco convivium, the event adopted the theme “Mare Nostrum” and featured a culinary journey across the Mediterranean, with Lebanese, Corsican, Italian, Monegasque and Spanish specialities, paired with Georgian wines.
Highlights of the evening included video messages from Alain Ducasse, honorary president of the convivium, who stressed the importance of local and seasonal cuisine, and Carlo Petrini, founder of the global Slow Food movement, who underscored the value of regional products in building a sustainable food culture.
Jean-Pierre Rouss, long-serving president of the Monaco convivium, delivered a heartfelt address announcing his intention to hand over leadership to a younger generation after years of dedication to the cause. Live violin and guitar performances added to the festive yet intimate atmosphere, while dishes prepared with local ingredients reflected the convivium’s commitment to “good, clean and fair” food.
The evening also recognised outstanding contributions to food quality, with Dr Guy Nervo, CEO of the Centre Cardio-Thoracique de Monaco, receiving a special commendation for the centre’s patient meals. In a spirit of solidarity, €4,500 was raised through bingo ticket sales and a private donation for the Monegasque association Soupe de Nuit, which will use the funds to provide basic necessities for people in need in Nice.
Since its foundation in 1986, the Slow Food movement has worked to protect local food cultures and promote sustainable gastronomy worldwide. This milestone celebration in Monaco not only reflected on 25 years of achievements but also set the stage for a new chapter of education, collaboration and culinary excellence across the Principality and the French Riviera.
