Bruges students to serve Japanese imperial couple at state banquet: "It's almost like a symphony orchestra"

Eighty students from the Ter Groene Poorte hotel school in Bruges are set to serve at a state banquet for the Japanese imperial couple at the Castle of Laeken, a prestigious honor that marks a significant moment in their culinary education. The students, all in their fifth year of secondary education, will be responsible for the service of the meal for approximately 160 high-profile guests.

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It is almost like a symphony orchestra

"It's almost like a symphony orchestra," described Dries Corneillie, a supervisor and former Best Sommelier of Belgium, highlighting the intricate organization required for such an event. The preparation has been meticulous, involving a court official visiting the school to brief teachers and students on the program. The students will trade their school uniforms for a special gala attire provided by the palace, consisting of black-and-white or red-and-gold outfits, complete with white gloves and long white socks, dating back to the era of King Baudouin.

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The different hotel schools in our country are given the honor of catering the state banquet in turns.

Upon arrival at the Castle of Laeken, the students will be required to surrender their smartphones. The royal head of staff will then provide detailed instructions on service expectations, including how to present clean plates and clear used ones. A specific detail noted is that each plate bears a monogram, with the Belgian crown needing to be positioned upwards. Following theoretical instruction, extensive practical training will take place until the group functions as a cohesive unit.

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In April, all students had the opportunity to come for a full day to try on their gala clothing.

While the students handle the service, the table setting itself has been a two-week-long endeavor by the palace's silver service staff, involving precise measurements. This state banquet is part of a two-day state visit by Japan to Belgium, representing the highest form of diplomatic contact between heads of state. Such banquets are known for pulling out all the stops, from the guest list and venue to the service, aiming to impress both domestic and international attendees.

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There are extensive instructions given before they serve the plates around 8 p.m. tonight.