CHEF MASTERCLASS
Festive family feast Christmas at Vianney Massot's and Lisa Revilla's is a huge affair. Here, they pay tribute to the traditional dishes lovingly prepared by their grand-mères and nanay. By Destin Tay and Victoria Lim
C
hristmas is a big deal in France. Come December, every state in the country starts to get dressed in their festive best, from the rustic Christmas markets and décor of Normandy to the glitz and glamour of Paris. Similarly, homes will follow suit; advent wreaths are hung and Nativity scenes are set up on windowsills. It all culminates on Christmas Eve, when the most important tradition of France takes place. Before midnight mass, families must gather for le Réveillon de Noël. The Réveillon dinner is where the French truly go all out. Premium ingredients and the finest wines are brought out, and Réveillon dinners can last up to six hours. (Staying at the table for long hours is part of the French tradition.) It is a time of merriment and wonder, especially for children, when greeted with a massive table filled to the brim with the grandest festive dishes. It’s how Vianney Massot remembers his Christmases at home. The 27-year-old, who helms one Michelin-starred Vianney Massot Restaurant, remembers the atmosphere and air of excitement at his family table. He has fond memories of his grandmother and mother toiling away in the kitchen to prepare mouthwatering signatures for Réveillon.
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