Montreal: Cooking Class & Tasting with Michelin-Trained Chef

Discover Montreal’s Flavors with a Michelin-Trained Chef in a Private Cooking Class

This 2.5-hour cooking class and tasting experience in Montreal offers a rare opportunity to learn from a Michelin-star-trained chef in a relaxed, private setting. Priced at an accessible rate, this immersive activity runs at 704 Rue Notre Dame West and includes hands-on cooking combined with a 3-course tasting inspired by French, Caribbean, Asian, Middle Eastern, and Quebecois cuisines. With an average rating of 4.3 from 36 reviews, it’s clear that most guests find this experience both educational and delicious.

The class is well-suited for those eager to expand their culinary skills and gain insight into professional techniques like searing, pan-roasting, and plating. It’s important to note that start times vary between 1 and 2:30 PM, depending on farm deliveries, and guests should expect a personalized, engaging experience led by an expert in the field. The option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility for travelers planning their Montreal trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Hands-on experience with a Michelin-star-trained chef in a private setting
• Duration of 2.5 hours with flexible start times, typically between 1-2:30 PM
• Includes a 3-course tasting, each inspired by different Montreal food cultures
• Focus on professional techniques such as sauce-making, searing, and plating
• Location at 704 Rue Notre Dame West, near Old Port, accessible for visitors
• Booking options allow cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund

Unique Setting in the Old Port of Montreal

This culinary experience takes place in a private apartment at 704 Rue Notre Dame West. Guests meet at apt 401, which involves a brief climb up an old staircase, adding a bit of character to the start. The setting is intimate and relaxed, making it ideal for those looking for a personalized and interactive class. The host communicates in English and provides detailed explanations throughout, enhancing the learning process.

Because the start times are subject to change based on farm deliveries, guests receive confirmation 24-48 hours in advance, ensuring they are well-informed. This flexibility helps accommodate travelers’ schedules without sacrificing the quality of the experience.

The Expertise of a Michelin-Trained Chef

Chef Rob leads this class with extensive culinary expertise, transforming the process into a true masterclass. Guests learn how to sauce, build flavors, and plate like a professional chef. His approach emphasizes technique and ingredient harmony, providing clear instructions on how to sear, oven-poach, and add spices effectively.

Guests consistently praise Chef Rob for his thorough explanations, warm personality, and ability to make complex techniques accessible. The class not only focuses on cooking skills but also offers tips on pairing dishes with wines or non-alcoholic beverages, elevating the tasting experience.

Exploring Montreal’s Diverse Food Cultures

Each of the three courses draws from different Montreal food influences. One course might highlight Quebecois traditions, while another explores Caribbean, Asian, or Middle Eastern flavors. The dishes reflect local ingredients and cultural stories, making the meal both educational and flavorful.

Guests actively participate in collaborating on at least one dish, gaining experience in slicing, searing, and plating. The dishes are described as delicious with complex flavors, with some reviews mentioning exceptional sauces and beautifully paired ingredients like scallions with raw salmon.

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The Tastings and Beverage Pairings

While the focus is on hands-on cooking, the class ends with a 3-course tasting of the dishes prepared. Several reviews highlight the wine and beverage pairings, which are carefully curated to complement the flavors. Some guests appreciate non-alcoholic options with unique flavor profiles, enhancing the overall dining experience.

The tasting is described as generous and presented with artistic finesse. The emphasis on pairing and presentation reflects the chef’s professional background and commitment to culinary artistry.

The Pacing and Group Atmosphere

Most reviews mention the relaxed and fun atmosphere created by Chef Rob. The class is described as thorough but approachable, with the chef making sure everyone understands techniques. The pace is well-balanced, allowing guests to learn, cook, and enjoy without feeling rushed.

However, some reviews note that assistants’ involvement in the cooking process can vary, with a few feeling that they helped rather than cooked. It’s worth considering that smaller group sizes ensure personalized attention, but larger groups might experience a different dynamic.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Guests should plan for start times that fluctuate depending on farm deliveries, so confirmation 24-48 hours before is essential. The meeting point at 698 Rue Notre Dame Ouest is near the original address, with instructions to buzz and come up the stairs.

The experience is accessible for most but involves some standing and interaction, so those with mobility concerns should inquire beforehand. The language of instruction is English, facilitating understanding for most travelers.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Montreal Food Experiences

Unlike typical food tours that focus on tasting at various venues, this class offers active participation in cooking and presentation. The presence of a Michelin-ranked chef distinguishes it as a culinary masterclass, elevating the quality of instruction and dishes.

Most reviews highlight the personalized attention, professional techniques learned, and delicious dishes served at the end. The wine and drink pairings, along with the cultural insights, make this a well-rounded experience that combines education, taste, and fun.

The Value for Money and Overall Experience

At 2.5 hours, this class provides a comprehensive and engaging experience for a competitive price. The ability to learn professional techniques while enjoying Montreal-inspired cuisine makes it a valuable addition to any culinary enthusiast’s itinerary.

Most guests rate it highly, citing chef Rob’s knowledge, friendly demeanor, and delicious food as key strengths. Some minor criticisms include timing variations and the helping role of assistants, but these do not detract significantly from the overall positive impression.

Montreal’s Culinary Class and Tasting: A Memorable Cultural Journey

This experience offers more than just cooking; it provides a taste of Montreal’s multicultural food scene, skill development, and a personalized connection with a highly skilled chef. It’s particularly suited for food lovers, home cooks, and anyone interested in professional techniques.

While the experience may not be ideal for those expecting a purely social or leisurely meal, it excels as a practical, enriching activity that leaves participants with new skills and delicious memories. The wine pairing enhances the meal, creating a well-rounded, satisfying experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the class last?
The class lasts 2.5 hours, with start times typically between 1 and 2:30 PM, depending on farm deliveries.

Where is the meeting point?
Guests meet at 704 Rue Notre Dame West, apt 401, near 698 Rue Notre Dame Ouest. Exact details are provided 24-48 hours before the class.

Is there a dress code or special equipment needed?
No specific dress code is mentioned. All necessary ingredients and tools are provided; participants simply need to wear comfortable clothing suitable for cooking.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

What cuisines are covered?
The class features dishes inspired by French, Caribbean, Asian, Middle Eastern, and Quebecois food cultures, reflecting Montreal’s diverse culinary scene.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the classes are designed to be approachable for home cooks of all levels, with detailed explanations and opportunities to participate actively.

Are beverages included?
Beverages, including wines and non-alcoholic drinks, are curated to match each course, enhancing the tasting experience.

Is the experience accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
Guests should inquire beforehand, as the meeting point involves stairs and may require some mobility.

What makes this tour unique?
The professional expertise of a Michelin-trained chef, combined with personalized instruction and authentic Montreal dishes, sets this experience apart from typical cooking classes or food tours in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby