The 31st edition of this gastronomic fair is being held from November 15 to 18, at the Méjannes-lès-Alès exhibition center, in Gard. After Tahiti last year, the guest of honor this time is the island of Cuba. Presentation.
“A very nice event.” Éric Giraudier, president of the Gard Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), speaks of the Miam gastronomic fair, discussing its 31st opus, expected from November 15 to 18, at the Méjannes exhibition center. lès-Alès. Certainly departmental, this meeting has, he said, “a regional aura. And people from Vaucluse also come to see us…”
This year, we move from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea. Indeed, after a 30th edition focused on Tahiti, the guest of honor this time is Cuba. In addition to the traditional dishes of the island, there will obviously be a question of“excellent” mojitos “to taste during the event”. Particularly within the “Cuban Village” which will vibrate to the rhythm of its activities (dance, music, exhibitions of classic American cars, etc.).
More than 140 exhibitors are expected
But this show will once again bring local production and know-how to the forefront. Thus, 146 exhibitors, “including 20% new”are announced. Enough to feed, insists Éric Giraudier, “one of the prettiest lounges in Gard which rests on several legs”. Ces “feet” are “discovery, opening up to a country or region”, “highlighting products and professionals”of the “put into practice”of “the Restoration” et “procurement”.
This last point “imported” especially to the representatives of the consular chamber. “The turnover at the show is around €800,000; there is real economic interest”declares Colette Brueger, president of the Alès delegation to the CCI. The president, who notes that “the average basket is around €60”is on the same wavelength: “This means that there is a real economic issue…”
“The symbolic handover” between sponsors
This Thursday, November 7, the Purple Campus in Alès is witnessing a “symbolic handover”. Sponsor of the show last year, Alesian starred chef Sébastien Rath, based in Saint-Hilaire-de-Brethmas, passes the torch of sponsorship of Miam to sommelier Cyriel Huysentruyt, representing his partner, chef Guido Niño Torres. Both have taken over the Likoké restaurant, in Les Vans, in Ardèche, but his partner is currently in Chile where an event comparable to the Alesian gastronomic fair is taking place. “It’s an honor, especially since we feel, in the restaurant, that the Gard clientele is very present”declaration Cyriel Huysentruyt. “It’s a pleasure to get a little closer and participate in Miam.” Of course, the duo who have held the reins of Likoké (one star in the Michelin Guide) since 2020, but where they have been working since 2014 and 2015, will be present next week. And to announce that “on the days of the event, we will provide a demonstration”.
If it is a question of money, Miam above all conveys moments of pleasure, as regional councilor Aurélie Génolher says: “Gastronomy is about convivial moments of sharing.” However, this year again, there will be many places to meet. Three spaces will allow you to eat: the restaurant of the guest of honor, the new place dedicated to caterers (supported by Normandy, Globe Traiteur and its Cévennes cuisine, and Marc and Sylvie Traiteur) and the Meat Counter which will be installed on the mezzanine. Colette Brueger then recalls that “the caterers and exhibitors, who are the soul of Miam, offer dishes to enjoy in the show’s picnic areas”. Without forgetting moments of sharing techniques, these “privileged moments” with professionals, underlines the president of the Gard CCI. When “chefs make a recipe and give their secrets to visitors”.
How to leave with gifts?
Once again, everyone will have the opportunity to rely on luck. By spinning the “Wheel of Luck” first, to walk away with one of the 800 prizes up for grabs. But also by participating in the Miam raffle, crowned with a trip to win. “In Cuba, of course”says Éric Giraudier. “Nine days and seven nights. With salsa lessons…”
