Cooking Class/Dinner W/ Celebrity French Chef OR Private Chef Ser

A Flavorful Journey into French Cuisine with Chef AlexG in St. Augustine

If you’re craving an authentic culinary experience that combines learning with tasting, this Cooking Class and Dinner with Chef AlexG offers an engaging way to deepen your appreciation for French cooking. For $115 per person, you’ll spend around 2.5 hours in a cozy setting in St. Augustine, preparing and savoring dishes under the guidance of a chef who has earned Emmy and James Beard awards. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just eager to try your hand at French techniques, this experience promises both education and enjoyment.

What we love most about this experience is the personalized approach—Chef AlexG offers menu customization to match your preferences and dietary needs, making it feel more like a dinner among friends than a typical class. The second highlight is the chance to learn classic French techniques like knife skills, creating sauces, and even using a mini-torch to caramelize crème brûlée—something that’s rare outside a professional kitchen.

One possible consideration is that upgrades are required to access the full menu and certain features, which could add to the cost if you’re not prepared for that. Also, during holiday seasons, classes are only available with upgrades, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting during busy times.

This experience is particularly suited for foodies, couples, or small groups who enjoy interactive learning and tasting a gourmet meal in a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for a memorable night that combines culinary education with a personal touch, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Hands-on French cuisine: Learn techniques from an award-winning chef.
• Menu customization: Tailor your meal to your preferences and dietary restrictions.
• Includes wine: Enjoy a glass of wine from the chef’s cellar as you taste your creations.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 guests for public classes, up to 15 for private sessions.
• Upgrade options: Available to enhance your experience with additional dishes and features.
• Gift of knowledge and taste: Walk away with new skills and delicious memories.

An Up-Close Look at the French Cooking Experience with Chef AlexG

Walking into the cozy cooking studio in St. Augustine, you immediately sense that this isn’t just a cooking class—it’s an intimate, personalized culinary journey. The location at 60 Julia St is easy to find, and the setting feels welcoming, with the aroma of herbs and sauces hinting at the flavors to come.

Chef AlexG, who has a distinguished culinary background—producing an Emmy-winning TV show and earning a James Beard Award—brings a wealth of experience into every lesson. His approach is relaxed but expert, making it clear that whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll gain something valuable.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The class begins with a quick introduction, where Chef AlexG explains the menu, which he tailors based on your preferences. You’ll then move on to preparing a multi-course French meal or desserts, depending on your upgrade choices. The core skills you’ll learn include knife techniques, sauces, and cooking with local, seasonal ingredients—a point that elevates the experience from simply following recipes to understanding flavor balance.

One of the standout features is the opportunity to use professional tools, like a mini-torch to caramelize crème brûlée, which not only makes the dish impressive but also gives you confidence in tackling this classic dessert at home. Throughout the class, you are encouraged to ask questions and participate actively, which keeps the atmosphere lively and engaging.

A Meal with a View: The Tasting

Once you’ve finished cooking, the group gathers around a table to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The meal is complemented by a glass of wine from the chef’s cellar, adding a touch of sophistication and a true French flair. The menu, which can be customized, often features local vegetables and proteins, emphasizing freshness and seasonality.

One guest shared, “Wonderful food and company! Highly recommend this experience. Chef Alex was awesome! Would love to have the recipes.” That sentiment resonates with many—after all, the goal is to walk away with not just a full belly but also new skills and inspiration.

Upgrades and Flexibility

While the basic class costs $115, there are options to upgrade your experience. These upgrades include additional courses like a beet risotto or crème brûlée, which can significantly enhance your meal. It’s worth noting that during holidays or peak times, all classes are offered only with upgrades, so planning ahead is wise.

You can also opt for private chef services or private classes at your location, bringing the chef’s expertise directly to your home or accommodations. This level of customization makes it suitable for special occasions or culinary-focused groups.

The Pros and Cons

The advantages of this experience are plentiful: expert instruction from a celebrated chef, a wine pairing, menu customization, and a relaxed environment. The small group size (max 12 for public classes) ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe.

However, some guests have noted additional costs—a review citing a surprise $146 charge for upgrades after the initial payment—highlighting the importance of clarifying what’s included before booking. Also, during busy holiday periods, certain features require extra payments, so if you’re on a tight schedule or budget, check the options carefully.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book at least a month in advance—the experience is popular.
• Prepare for extra costs if you want full customization or upgrades.
• Arrive early to settle in and get comfortable before cooking begins.
• Consider whether you’d like a private class for a more intimate experience.
• If you have dietary restrictions, inform the host beforehand—they’re accommodating.
• Expect to spend about 2.5 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

Who Will Love This?

This culinary adventure is perfect for food lovers, couples seeking a romantic or fun activity, small groups of friends, or anyone who appreciates hands-on learning. If you’re intrigued by French cuisine, eager to improve your cooking skills, or looking for a memorable night in St. Augustine, this experience ticks all those boxes.

It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy pairing delicious food with good wine and who value personalized experiences rather than crowded classes. But be prepared for the possibility of extra charges if you opt for upgrades, and consider the timing if you’re visiting during holidays.

Final Thoughts

Trying your hand at French cooking with a James Beard and Emmy-winning chef in a relaxed, intimate setting offers more than just a meal—it’s a chance to learn, taste, and connect over food. The blend of expert instruction, customizable menus, and the chance to enjoy your own creations makes it a standout experience in St. Augustine.

While the price is reasonable for the personalized attention and high-quality instruction, keep in mind the potential additional costs for upgrades. If you’re passionate about improving your culinary skills or simply want a fun, delicious night out, this class is well worth considering.

For travelers who value authenticity, expert guidance, and a memorable shared experience, Chef AlexG’s cooking class is a flavorful journey worth taking.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to teach basic French techniques, so even beginners can participate and learn new skills.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Absolutely. The chef can accommodate special dietary needs if informed beforehand, ensuring everyone enjoys the meal.

What’s included in the $115 price?
The basic fee covers the hands-on cooking class, dinner, and a glass of wine from the chef’s cellar. Upgrades for additional courses or features are available separately.

Are private classes available?
Yes, private chef services and private classes at your location can be arranged, providing a more personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Since the experience is popular, booking about 31 days ahead is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

What should I expect in terms of group size?
Public classes are limited to 10 guests, offering an intimate environment, while private sessions can accommodate up to 15 people.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a culinary experience that combines expert instruction with delicious food and the chance to learn practical skills, Chef AlexG’s class in St. Augustine is hard to beat. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy interactive dining and want to take home not just recipes but real confidence in French cooking.