Are you a foodie who loves to immerse in culinary experiences when you travel? I do! I’m a big fan of exploring a destination through food and I love hyper-local programs like Eatwith. So on a recent trip to France for my barge cruise, I decided to take a cooking class in Paris at Le Foodist.

My first ever trip to Europe was to Paris almost 30 years ago. I tagged along with my mother and brother on what would be an epic, and quite memorable, trip. We’re all three foodies so we managed to book a day at the School Ritz-Escoffier in the Ritz Paris. Despite the entire class being taught in French (which none of us spoke), we had a blast and it just further fueled my love of culinary travel.

My Day At A Paris Cooking Class

Tucked away in a charming neighborhood, Le Foodist promised more than just cooking lessons—it was a portal to French culture, history, and, of course, exquisite cuisine. There were 10 student chefs, and we were all eager to learn some French culinary skills from the owner, Chef Fred. Le Foodist is a popular culinary experience that offers cooking classes in Paris, wine tastings, and food-related cultural activities to immerse visitors in French gastronomy. It is popular for its hands-on approach to teaching traditional French cooking techniques and sharing the stories behind iconic dishes as a cooking class in Paris.

A Typical Day At The Cooking Class in Paris

Our culinary day began with a visit to a local street market where Chef Fred gave us crash course on cheeses, vegetables, and seafood, and how to identify the freshest ingredients and most reliable farmers. We gathered our ingredients for the days cookery and set back to the kitchen to get to work. Chef Fred explained all of the cooking tasks for the day. We divided into groups, donned our aprons, rolled up our sleeves and got to work. There was cauliflower to be chopped, French sauces to be made, potatoes to be sliced and artfully arranged in a baking dish, and pears to be poached. The chef guided us through every step, from knife skills to the delicate art of emulsifying sauces. Each technique was explained with care, peppered with stories about how these dishes evolved alongside French history.

Visiting Food Markets In Paris

The Meal We Prepared At Our Cooking Class in Paris

With the cooking complete, it was time to gather around a beautifully set communal table. With glasses of wine in hand, we enjoyed the fruits of our labor. The first bite was magical—a blend of flavors that seemed to capture the very essence of France. But the meal wasn’t just about the food. It was about the shared experience, the conversations, and the sense of accomplishment that came with creating something extraordinary together. Our 3-course meal began with Potage Dubarry (a cauliflower soup that is so rich and creamy but has no cream). For the mains, we feasted on Coq au Vin En Ballotine (chicken roulades in a dreamy wine sauce) and Gratin Dauphinois (the lightest, airiest potatoes. Dessert was Poire Belle-Helene, or pears poached in wine.

As we said our goodbyes, I realized that Le Foodist had given me more than a few new recipes. This experience deepened my connection to French culture. Most of all, it reminded me of the joy that comes from working with your hands and sharing a meal with others.

About Le Foodist Cooking School in Paris

Le Foodist isn’t just a cooking school. It’s a love letter to French gastronomy, written with the passion of those who believe food is a language that transcends borders. My day there was a sensory journey I’ll never forget. I’d recommend it to anyone looking to experience Paris in a way that lingers long after the last bite.

The class was slated for 6 hours. Yet our group became fast friends, so we hung around much later and finished off the lovely French wines. I would like to take the Macarons Class in Paris but it was sold out. (Note: book early!)

Le Foodist offers unique food experiences in Paris, Provence and the Loire Valley including cooking classes, French pastry classes, wine tastings, food tours in Paris, and cooking holidays. It gets great reviews on Google. Le Foodist is located at 59 Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 75005 Paris, France.

What To Know About Cooking Classes In France

Taking a cooking class when you travel offers a hands-on way to experience the country’s rich culinary heritage. From mastering the art of French pastry in Paris to learning rustic Provençal dishes in the countryside, these classes provide an immersive cultural experience. Many are led by professional chefs or local experts, teaching techniques like sauce-making, bread-baking, and wine pairing. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, French cooking classes are a delicious way to explore the flavors and traditions of one of the world’s most renowned cuisines.

What To Look For When Choosing A Cooking Class In Paris

When choosing a cooking class in France, consider your culinary interests and skill level to find the right experience. Decide whether you want to focus on pastries, traditional French dishes, or regional specialties like Provençal cuisine or Burgundy wines. Look for classes taught by experienced chefs or local experts, and check reviews for insights into the quality of instruction and hands-on opportunities. Consider the class size—smaller groups often allow for more personalized attention. Location is also key, whether you prefer an urban setting in Paris or a countryside retreat. Lastly, think about extras such as market tours, wine pairings, or multi-day workshops for a more immersive experience.

Where To Stay In Paris Near Le Foodist

Le Foodist is located in the heart of Paris, in the charming 5th arrondissement, also known as the Latin Quarter. Nestled near the iconic Seine River, it’s just a short walk from landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Pantheon. This central location makes it easy to explore the city’s vibrant culture and history before or after your cooking class. I wanted to be able to walk to the school so I chose a hotel nearby, Hotel Des Nations Saint Germain, at 54 rue Monge. It was literally right around the corner and a pleasant walk – not to mention free pastries in the lobby!

For additional accommodations convenient to Le Foodist, consider Hôtel Monge, a boutique hotel offering elegant rooms and personalized service just a few minutes away. Another great option is Hotel Parc Saint-Severin, known for its cozy atmosphere and views of Paris rooftops. For a more luxurious stay, Hôtel Les Dames du Panthéon provides sophisticated décor and stunning views of the Pantheon, adding a touch of Parisian elegance to your trip.

Looking for more foodie tours in Paris?

Did you enjoy my Le Foodist review? Have you taken a cooking class when you’ve traveled? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below!

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