Paris: Cooking Class with Ferrandi at Galeries Lafayette

Imagine stepping into a stylish Parisian kitchen with a professional chef from Ferrandi, one of France’s top culinary schools. For around $152 per person and just two hours of your time, you’ll learn the secrets behind some classic French dishes right in the heart of the city. The class takes place on the 3rd floor of Galeries Lafayette, a legendary department store with a stunning view of Paris. It’s a hands-on experience where you’ll not only prepare gourmet dishes but also sit down to enjoy what you’ve made—a true taste of France.

What we love about this experience is how it caters to all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a complete beginner, the step-by-step guidance and professional tips make this class accessible and fun. The fact that you get to taste your own creations in a convivial setting is a huge plus. Plus, the intimate group size—limited to six—means plenty of personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

A possible consideration is that drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own if you enjoy pairing wines or champagne with your meal. Also, note that this experience is not suitable for children under 12 or teenagers under 16 unless accompanied by an adult—so it’s best suited for adult foodies or mature teens.

This class is ideal for food lovers eager to learn authentic French techniques, travelers wanting a cultural activity with a culinary twist, or anyone looking for a memorable, hands-on experience in Paris that offers both education and enjoyment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic French dishes taught by a Ferrandi chef.
Small group size ensures personalized instruction.
Two-hour class strikes a balance between learning and tasting.
Includes a three-course meal to enjoy what you’ve cooked.
Suitable for all skill levels with step-by-step guidance.
Ideal for foodies seeking a practical, memorable experience.

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An In-Depth Look at the Paris Cooking Class with Ferrandi

Location and Setting

Set on the 3rd floor of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, this cooking class leverages the store’s vibrant atmosphere and iconic views. The Lafayette department store is a Paris landmark, and its Gourmet Store provides a chic, well-equipped backdrop that adds to the experience. The meeting point is conveniently located, and you’ll gather in Ferrandi’s dedicated kitchen space, designed for an intimate group of just six participants.

The Professional Chef and Teaching Style

The chef leading the class is from Ferrandi, renowned for its professional culinary training. Based on reviews, the instructor is friendly, approachable, and generous with tips, sharing culinary secrets and techniques that elevate your cooking skills. One reviewer from France mentioned, “The chef’s advice on cooking techniques…was invaluable,” emphasizing the practical value of this experience.

The class is conducted in either English or French, ensuring clear communication for international and local participants alike. The small group setting fosters a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged, and everyone gets hands-on experience.

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The Recipes and Cooking Techniques

You’ll select from several emblematic dishes such as Duck breast with vegetables, Risotto with green asparagus and peas, or Sea bream fillet with Maxim potatoes. These are classic dishes with a gourmet twist, providing insight into French culinary techniques.

The class begins with a step-by-step demonstration and includes detailed explanations of knife skills, ingredient preparation, and cooking methods. For example, you might learn how to perfectly sear a duck breast or master the art of making a creamy risotto. The chef often shares little secrets—like how to know when your fish is perfectly cooked or how to balance flavors—making this more than just a cooking lesson, but a true culinary education.

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The Tasting Experience

Once your dishes are prepared, you’ll sit down together to enjoy the fruits of your labor—a traditional French-style tasting. This communal aspect is highly appreciated; one reviewer from the USA called it “an excellent learning experience and really fun,” emphasizing the social and culinary joy of sharing a meal with fellow participants.

The Value and Price

At $152 per person, the class offers remarkable value considering it includes both instruction and a full meal. Compared to similar classes in Paris, this stands out because of the small group size, professional instruction, and location within a major department store. The experience isn’t just about cooking; it’s about enjoying French culture through food.

Practical Details and Considerations

The class lasts about two hours, with check availability for specific starting times. You’ll need to bring a passport or ID—a small formality that ensures safety and organization. Since pets aren’t allowed and children under 12 can’t participate, this experience is best suited for adult travelers and teenagers over 16.

You should be prepared to not bring drinks unless you choose to do so separately, as they are not included. The group is limited to six, which fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere where everyone gets hands-on time.

Real Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the class for its quality and fun. Marcia from the US described it as “an excellent learning experience and really fun,” while Berger from France appreciated the helpful advice from the chef, which made it easy to recreate the dishes at home.

These insights highlight that this experience is well-received across different skill levels and backgrounds, making it a reliable choice for anyone wanting to take a piece of France back home in their cooking.

Who Should Book This Experience?

If you love cooking and eating, this class offers a perfect mix of learning and tasting. It’s especially suited for foodies eager to grasp authentic French techniques in a friendly environment. Travelers who prefer interactive, small-group activities over large tours will find this particularly engaging.

However, those with limited time or who are traveling with very young children may want to consider alternative experiences. It’s best for adults or teenagers over 16 who want a meaningful culinary adventure rooted in French tradition.

The Sum Up

This Parisian cooking class at Galeries Lafayette provides more than just a demonstration of French dishes; it’s an interactive journey into the techniques that make French cuisine special. Led by a friendly, expert chef from Ferrandi, you’ll gain practical skills, enjoy a delicious meal, and take home some culinary confidence. The intimate setting, combined with the iconic location, creates a memorable experience that appeals to food lovers, culture seekers, and curious travelers alike.

While it might not include drinks or be suitable for young children, the overall value—considering the instruction, the meal, and the setting—is excellent. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this class offers a fun, educational, and delicious way to spend a few hours in Paris. It’s a perfect addition to your city itinerary if you’re looking for a hands-on, authentic taste of French cuisine.

FAQ

Is the cooking class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed for all skill levels, with step-by-step guidance that makes it accessible whether you cook regularly or are trying it for the first time.

How long does the class last?
The class is approximately two hours long, including the cooking and tasting portions.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included, so if you prefer wine, champagne, or other beverages, you’ll need to bring them separately.

Can children participate in this class?
Children under 12 are not allowed, and teenagers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, making it best suited for adult travelers and older teens.

Where exactly do we meet?
The meeting point is Ferrandi’s Kitchen on the 3rd Floor of Galeries Lafayette at the designated time, which is confirmed upon booking.

What kind of dishes will I learn to cook?
You can expect to learn classic French dishes like Duck breast with vegetables, Risotto with green asparagus and peas, or Sea bream fillet with Maxim potatoes—depending on the options available during your booking.

Embark on this culinary journey and come away with new skills, tasty memories, and perhaps a few French cooking secrets to impress your friends back home.