A Festive Cooking Experience in Paris for Food Lovers

The Perfect Christmas Dinner: 3.5-Hour Cooking Class offers an engaging way to prepare a gourmet holiday meal with a skilled Parisian chef. For $256 per person, participants spend 3.5 hours mastering festive dishes that showcase the best seasonal ingredients. This class takes place in the cozy apartment of Chef Dominique Dury in the 11th arrondissement, providing an intimate setting ideal for small groups limited to 8 participants.

The tour emphasizes hands-on cooking of a three-course menu, including a Red Kuri squash with scallops and black truffles, a guinea fowl supremes with white wine and morels, and a chocolate yule log. After preparing these dishes, everyone shares a sit-down meal, enjoying the fruits of their labor in a warm, friendly atmosphere. The experience is notable for its local chef, seasonal ingredients, and professional guidance, making it a perfect choice for those wanting to improve holiday cooking skills or simply enjoy a festive culinary experience in Paris.

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Key Points

Duration: 3.5 hours of hands-on cooking and dining
Price: $256 per person, including ingredients, utensils, and lunch
Location: Chef Dominique Dury’s apartment at 131 boulevard de Charonne, Paris
Menu Highlights: Red Kuri squash with scallops, guinea fowl supremes, and a chocolate yule log
Included: Aprons, utensils, recipes, and drinks such as Jura Savagnin or Chardonnay wine
Group Size: Limited to 8 participants for an intimate experience
Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance
Languages: English and French

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How the Class Takes Shape in a Parisian Home

The class begins at Chef Dominique Dury’s apartment, located in the 11th arrondissement, easily accessible via the Philippe Auguste Metro station. Participants arrive at the cozy apartment, enter through the courtyard, and follow instructions to the second floor where the chef welcomes them. This setting offers a warm, authentic environment away from tourist-heavy venues, making the experience more personal and relaxed.

Within this intimate space, the chef guides guests through each step, using aprons, utensils, and fresh ingredients supplied for the class. The focus on seasonal ingredients ensures that each dish is both fresh and fitting for a festive Christmas menu. The class’s small size allows for personalized attention, making it suitable for those seeking a more tailored cooking experience.

Learning to Prepare a Classic French Christmas Menu

Participants learn how to cook gourmet dishes that are both impressive and achievable. The menu includes a potimarron velouté, highlighting the use of red kuri squash, topped with scallops and black truffles for a luxurious touch. The main course features guinea fowl supremes prepared with white wine and morels, showcasing classic French techniques and seasonal ingredients.

The dessert, a chocolate and chestnut Bûche de Noël, embodies the festive spirit, complemented by Mont d’Or cheese. The chef shares helpful tips throughout, emphasizing simple yet elegant flavors that make holiday cooking special. Guests receive a copy of all recipes, sent via email after the class, so they can recreate the meal at home.

Enjoying the Meal in a Friendly Atmosphere

Once the dishes are prepared, everyone gathers around the table to enjoy the fruits of their labor. The meal includes wine options such as Jura Savagnin or Chardonnay, alongside coffee, tea, and water. This shared dining experience turns the cooking class into a festive celebration, perfect for those wanting to indulge in gourmet Christmas food in a relaxed setting.

The opportunity to sit down and savor the dishes prepared with guidance makes this experience stand out. It turns cooking into a social event, ideal for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a memorable holiday activity.

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The Experience of a French Chef at Home

Chef Dominique Dury offers more than just cooking instructions; he provides an authentic glimpse into Parisian culinary tradition. His approach is praised for being patient and helpful, making even complex dishes accessible. The class’s small group format ensures personalized attention, fostering a warm, friendly environment.

The apartment setting feels intimate and genuine, unlike large, commercial cooking schools. Participants appreciate the personal storytelling and professional tips that elevate their understanding of French holiday cuisine.

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Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The class is designed to accommodate flexible plans with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Payment can be postponed with the reserve now, pay later option, offering extra convenience for travelers unsure of their schedules. The experience typically lasts 3.5 hours, with various start times available, so it can fit easily into a busy holiday itinerary.

Participants should note that the class is conducted in both English and French, ensuring clear communication and a relaxed atmosphere. The location is straightforward to find, with clear instructions on entering the apartment and accessing the second floor via elevator.

Who Will Enjoy This Christmas Cooking Class?

This experience suits foodies eager to learn elegant holiday recipes, as well as travelers wanting an authentic Parisian culinary activity. It is especially well-suited for those who enjoy interactive, small-group experiences and prefer a cozy, home-like environment over large classes. The focus on seasonal ingredients and classic French techniques makes it perfect for anyone interested in holiday cooking or French cuisine.

The class is also a good fit for couples or small groups looking for a festive activity that combines learning with sharing a meal. However, it requires participants to be comfortable with hands-on cooking and standing for about 3.5 hours.

Final Thoughts: A Warm, Gourmet Holiday Experience

The Perfect Christmas Dinner: 3.5-Hour Cooking Class offers a personalized and professional way to prepare a festive French meal in Paris. Its focus on seasonal ingredients and authentic techniques makes it a worthwhile activity for anyone seeking to enhance their holiday cooking skills or enjoy a special meal in a friendly, intimate setting.

While the experience’s price reflects its gourmet quality and small-group format, the inclusion of recipes, ingredients, and drinks adds value. It’s particularly suitable for food lovers who appreciate hands-on learning and delicious, well-crafted dishes. This class promises a warm, festive atmosphere with the chance to connect over good food in a true Parisian home.

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The Perfect Christmas Dinner: 3.5-Hour Cooking Class

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible, with the chef guiding participants through each step, making it ideal for all skill levels.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
The price covers aprons, utensils, ingredients, lunch, and a copy of the recipes sent via email. Drinks like wine, coffee, and water are also provided.

Where does the class take place?
It takes place at Chef Dominique Dury’s apartment, located at 131 boulevard de Charonne, Paris.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, there is a reserve now, pay later option, giving flexibility for travel plans.

What dishes will I learn to make?
Participants learn to prepare a potimarron velouté with scallops and black truffles, guinea fowl supremes with white wine and morels, and a chocolate and chestnut Bûche de Noël.

How many people are in each class?
The class is limited to 8 participants to ensure an intimate and personalized experience.

What languages are spoken in the class?
The class is conducted in English and French.

Is this experience suitable for sharing with a partner who doesn’t cook?
Yes, if your partner prefers to share the meal, you should contact the provider to coordinate.