It is easier to bring in European chefs.

At the hotel's Yasmin restaurant, visiting European chefs rotate through the kitchen every 18 months.

"When I first started working in Brazil, the European chefs were importing everything, most of it frozen and very expensive," he said.

My friend Darra says that you can always tell European chefs by their glasses.

A matron behind me complained archly about a dessert prepared by the impeccable European chef.

"Yeah, but a few of these European chefs never leave their kitchens. "

European chefs have created some classic dishes using this method.

The foods and drinks are tested by a jury of professional European chefs and sommeliers.

A chicken run provides eggs, most of which go into the pastries made daily for afternoon tea by two European chefs.

They then brought these "new" varieties to the attention of European chefs.