Guide to cooking school vacations in France

PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ

Amidst the grandeur and stylish history of The Ritz Paris, a culinary connoisseur or foodie neophyte can indulge in one of the finest cooking school anywhere. The Ritz Escoffier School is named for the luxury hotel’s first Head Chef, August Escoffier, a French culinary master. Credited with creating Peach Melba, among other dishes, Escoffier inspires chefs worldwide to this day. As well, the mystique and allure of The Ritz is equal to that of Escoffier and the combination is as exquisite as champagne and strawberries.

The school delivers a memorable experience – a back-of-the-house view of this legendary hotel coupled with serious yet accessible, and surprisingly entertaining instruction. Whether an accomplished cook or enthusiastic beginner, all types will find a course to suit their needs. Instruction encompasses both practical learning and gastronomic appreciation. There is a range of courses from which to choose, from the introductory Ritz Escoffier classes and Master Class courses to The Art of Pastry and French Bread Baking. Courses are available in half- or full-day options and workshops are also offered, including varieties such as Pairing Food & Wine and All About Truffles. Serious gourmets may even go on to apply for internships at the school.

Just as the details distinguish The Ritz from other hotels, it’s the details at the cooking school that put The Ritz Escoffier in a class by itself. Participants are given uniforms complete with Toques and their own locker. Diplomas are given to each graduate. Instruction is provided right beside the splendid and bustling Ritz kitchens, and all instruction is given by French chefs in French but also translated into English. Finally, a culinary library is at the disposal of all students during their spell at The Ritz.

For those on a budget, you need not stay at The Ritz to participate in its cooking school. But it’s worth the splurge for a once-in-lifetime experience. Because as Hemingway said, “When in Paris, the only reason not to stay at The Ritz, is if you can’t afford it.”