Enjoy an unforgettable day getting to know the real Paris as you stroll the markets, select ingredients, prepare an authentic French meal, and savor the delicious result.

Over 12 years ago, quintessential parisienne Paule Caillat pioneered the concept of offering English-speaking visitors a combined market tour and hands-on cooking class. Since then, some four thousand foodies of all ages, origins, and skills-levels have joined Paule for what they best describe as an amazing experience. Many have returned over the years to master more recipes to take home. Many as well have become friends, sharing much more than cuisine.

Promenades Gourmandes classes take place at Paule’s new address, rue Notre Dame de Nazareth -- a corner of the Marais easily accessed by metro. Although twice the size of the original location, it retains all the intimacy and warmth of a true Parisian home.

The space, situated in an early nineteenth-century building, is blessed with high ceilings, tall windows, and plenty of light. The specially designed kitchen overlooks a charming courtyard, and is the perfect setting for Paule’s informative, fun, and non-intimidating cooking classes (for groups of two to eight). At its heart is a large island anchored by a Lacanche range cooker in gorgeous deep red enamel (these traditional jewels are manufactured in the heart of Burgundy). The space, with its adjoining salon, is also available under the Salon Culinaire banner for a full range of culinary-themed events, corporate or private, for groups of six to fifteen.

What to expect

Using the freshest seasonal ingredients, you will learn French classic and modern recipes, as well as the tricks of the trade that make them easy to recreate at home. Because the menus for each class are customized to reflect your preferences and wishes, you will only cook what you are willing to eat! Every class includes a cheese tasting and discussion of the subtleties that make France's fromage so unique.

Preparing a meal from start to finish, and meeting the people behind the products offers a unique opportunity to get to know the real Paris, and real Parisians -- starting with your teacher and guide, Paule Caillat. In perfectly fluent English, Paule shares her passion about all aspects of food (wine is not forgotten), and her native knowledge of all things French.

A variety of options

Promenades Gourmandes classes may be scheduled for half-day, full-day or multi-day sessions. There is no preset schedule, though Wednesdays and Fridays are most popular.

Half-day classes start at 9:00 am with an open-air market tour. The hands-on class includes the preparation of a full menu, a cheese tasting, and the enjoyment of lunch (including wine). The class ends at about 3:00 pm.

The full-day program follows the same schedule but includes a gourmet afternoon walking tour, finishing at 6:00 pm. Including visits to specialty shops and some of Paris most beautiful and least well-known passages, the tour can be scheduled independently.

New: by popular demand, pâtisserie classes are now available. More details.

Reserve or inquire about a class and / or tour.