Paris: Pastry Class with Ferrandi Chef at Galeries Lafayette

Imagine spending two hours in the heart of Paris, learning the art of French pastry from a seasoned chef from the prestigious Ferrandi School. For $152 per person, you’ll join a small group—limited to just six participants—at the elegant Galeries Lafayette, where your culinary journey begins in a well-equipped kitchen on Boulevard Haussmann. This experience is more than just a baking class; it’s a chance to connect with the craftsmanship behind Parisian desserts and bring some of that magic home.

What we love about this experience is how approachable yet authentic it feels. First, the location itself—a quintessential Parisian department store—adds a touch of elegance and vibrancy. Second, the personal attention from a passionate chef means you’re not just watching; you’re actively creating, with plenty of tips and tricks to take away. One minor consideration is that, since the class lasts only 2 hours, it’s a quick burst of pastry education, so don’t expect to master every technique in that short time. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of French baking without a lengthy commitment and are eager to see some of Paris’s best culinary secrets.

This tour suits food lovers, baking enthusiasts, or anyone curious about French desserts—and especially those who want to learn in a lively, real-world setting. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a practical, hands-on experience, and for those eager to impress friends or family with authentic recipes. Just remember, children under 12 aren’t allowed, and teenagers under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult.

Key Points

• Authentic Cooking Environment: Learn in the well-equipped Ferrandi Kitchen located at Galeries Lafayette.
• Expert Guidance: A skilled chef from Ferrandi shares insider techniques and tricks.
• Hands-On Learning: About 1.5 hours of active baking, with the chance to create multiple classic French desserts.
• Cultural Setting: Savor your creations in a stylish Parisian, shopping-meets-culinary ambiance.
• Recipe & Keepsake: Take home your recipes, so you can recreate your desserts later.
• Small Group: Limited to 6 participants for more personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Location: Galeries Lafayette’s Ferrandi Kitchen

The class unfolds on the 3rd floor of Galeries Lafayette, perched above the bustling Boulevard Haussmann. It’s a smart choice—this department store is a Paris institution, blending shopping, glamour, and now, sweet learning. The Ferrandi Kitchen is a bright, modern space, equipped with everything a pastry chef could wish for, including professional mixers, pastry tools, and a warm atmosphere that feels welcoming rather than intimidating.

The convenience of the location can’t be overstated. After all, you’re already in the center of the city, making it easy to combine this experience with some shopping or sightseeing. Plus, the setting lends a sense of occasion—learning to make classic dishes amid Parisian chic makes for a memorable highlight.

The Chef: Insider Tips and Personal Touches

Your instructor is a chef from the esteemed Ferrandi School of Culinary Arts, renowned for producing top-tier chefs in France. Based on reviews, the chef is friendly, approachable, and generous with tips. Saskia from Germany mentioned, “The head pastry chef did most of the mixing and did a lot of the work. But we still learned a great deal.” This indicates that the hands-on nature of the class means you’ll get plenty of practical experience, not just watching a chef perform.

Another review highlighted how the chef explained “lots of tricks,” which elevates this beyond a simple recipe-following session. If you’re eager to pick up techniques like perfect pastry layers or decorating tips, you’ll find this class rewarding.

The Recipes: French Desserts Made Simple

Participants can select from a variety of classic French desserts, such as:

• Strawberry Pie
• Millefeuille with vanilla
• Saint-Honoré cake

These are all desserts that look impressive but are approachable with proper guidance. The interactive part of the class lasts approximately 1.5 hours, during which you’ll learn techniques like pastry dough handling, cream piping, and assembly. The final half-hour is dedicated to savoring your creations—a true highlight—allowing you to enjoy your work while soaking in the Parisian ambiance.

And don’t worry about forgetting what you learned. The class provides a recipe sheet, enabling you to recreate these treats at home. One review lamented the absence of a video link, but the shared recipes still serve as a valuable souvenir of your culinary effort.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With only six participants, the class offers a personalized experience. Small groups foster interaction, making it easier to ask questions and receive individual guidance. The intimate setting also keeps the vibe lively but relaxed—perfect for shy bakers or those new to pastry work.

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Practical Details: Timing, Cost, and What’s Included

The class runs in various starting times, so you can fit it into your Paris schedule. At $152 per person, it strikes a good balance between quality and value, considering the professional instruction and the chance to learn skills directly from a Ferrandi-trained chef.

Included in the price are an apron, a chef’s hat, and the recipe sheet. Drinks are not included, so plan to bring a water bottle or enjoy a coffee afterward. The meeting point is straightforward—at the Ferrandi Kitchen on the 3rd floor of Galeries Lafayette—making it easy to find, especially since the store is a well-known landmark.

What the Reviews Say: Authenticity and Value

Multiple reviewers praise the expert guidance and the value for money. Saskia appreciated that “we still learned a lot,” despite the chef doing much of the initial mixing. Marie from France called it “great,” noting her happiness with the experience. Travelers also mention that they felt more confident with pastry techniques afterward.

However, some noted the short duration as a limitation—while you’ll come away with a good feel for French desserts, mastering all techniques takes longer. That’s typical of a two-hour class but worth knowing if you’re expecting a comprehensive mastery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This class is ideal for foodies, baking hobbyists, and anyone with a curiosity about French desserts. It suits travelers who want a practical, hands-on experience rather than just watching a demonstration. It’s also a hit for those who appreciate small-group intimacy and expert guidance.

Children under 12 aren’t allowed, and teenagers under 16 should be accompanied by an adult, so it’s best for slightly older kids or adults wanting a culinary break from sightseeing.

This pastry class offers a charming, practical introduction to French baking in a setting that feels both authentic and elegant. The expert guidance, combined with the small-group format, ensures you’ll get personalized tips and plenty of hands-on practice. The recipes you take home make this experience especially valuable, giving you the tools to impress friends and family back home.

If you’re a serious baker or simply a dessert lover eager to learn the secrets behind Parisian sweets, this class is well worth considering. The price is reasonable for the quality of instruction and the unforgettable setting—an authentic taste of Paris you can bring home in more ways than one.

However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive, in-depth pastry course that covers multiple techniques over several days, this might feel a bit quick. But for a fun, authentic, and educational introduction to French desserts, it hits the mark.

Is this class suitable for complete beginners? Yes, the class is designed to teach the basics of French pastry, making it accessible for those new to baking.

Are ingredients provided? Yes, all the necessary ingredients and equipment are included at the venue, so you just need to show up ready to learn.

Can I choose which desserts to make? The available recipes include options like strawberry pie, Millefeuille, and Saint-Honoré cake, but the exact choices may depend on the day.

How long does the class last? The interactive baking part takes about 1.5 hours, with the final half-hour reserved for tasting your creations.

What should I bring? Just your passport or ID; all baking gear and ingredients are provided.

Is transportation involved? No, but the location at Galeries Lafayette is central and easy to find on Boulevard Haussmann.

This class offers a delightful and practical way to dip into French pastry traditions, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Paris. Whether you’re a dedicated baker or simply looking for a fun culinary experience, you’ll leave with new skills—and maybe a new favorite dessert.

You can check availability for your dates here: