École des Arts Culinaires Lenôtre

More than in any other field, gastronomy adds meaning to the word heritage. Gestures are passed on, secret recipes are handed down, and historic businesses continue to unite families. For the Maison Lenôtre, established in 1957, heritage is all about values. “Learning by doing” was the motto of its founder, the pastry chef Gaston Lenôtre. This principle applies perfectly to the firm’s school of culinary arts. While future professionals and career changers train in culinary excellence, even beginners can benefit from the expertise of experienced chefs by joining one of the workshops.

Workshops at the Lenôtre school of culinary arts

Cookery enthusiasts and self-taught chefs, take note: the Maison Lenôtre is just a stone’s throw from Rungis market. The chefs, some of whom have won the ‘best chef in France’ award, conduct cookery workshops right here where their ingredients are sourced.
The programme begins with a visit to the market to meet the suppliers. As the world’s biggest market for farm produce, the Rungis wholesale market has everything you'll need, from the most tender meats to the most exotic spices, and an incredible array of fruit and vegetables. Before getting to the core of the matter, the chef offers a few explanations about the choice of ingredients and the importance of using seasonal products. Then the merrymaking can begin. The participants are free to express their love for French cuisine as they see fit, as long as they follow closely the chef’s precious tips. Last but not least, the final phase of this workshop is certainly the most delicious of them all: tasting the results! You’ll feel a tinge of pride as you savour the fruits of your labour.

Sweet or savoury, but always seasonal

The workshops promote mindfulness of the seasonality of ingredients. Let your tastes and preferences help you choose between a workshop in spring, summer, autumn or winter.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, more specific topics are covered. To earn your stripes before the season of family meals gets underway, sign up for a special all-day workshop on the theme of Christmas and New Year festivities. Ahead of the big day, take inspiration from a workshop entitled ‘festive menu’, ‘hazelnut praline log’ or ‘Thanksgiving dinner’. With your newly-acquired culinary techniques and expertise, you won’t fail to impress (and delight) your family and friends.

Finally, as every celebration in France is another excuse to indulge, the school also organises ‘Easter chocolate’ and ‘Epiphany cake’ workshops. Like the other pastry-making workshops, these delicious all-day classes unveil the secrets of making fabulous desserts.

Live out your passion through all the culinary activities available in the Paris Region.