Study French Cooking at a School in Paris

Paris is inarguably one of the most significant culinary destinations in the world. Many of the world’s popular cuisines have been influenced by that of France’s. American dishes with distinct French influence include a variety of breakfast foods—crepes, croissants, quiches—and dishes such as foie gras, fricasseed chicken, truffled chicken, and rabbit. Haute cuisine was born in Paris and continues to define the general food climate. However, like other major metro areas in Europe, even the chef environment in Paris is becoming less defined. International flavors, exotic ingredients and ethnic influences have effectively permeated the city.

But if you’re a student chef and eager to study in Paris then here is the seat of formal cheffing. Consider the kitchen brigade system. This hierarchical system of chefs, cooks and kitchen assistants makes quick sense of the various duties necessary in a high volume or fine dining kitchen.

As a chef student in Paris expect to immerse yourself in clean fresh ingredients and some of the best wine in the world.

Birthplace of the Michelin Guide

In combination with haute cuisine comes the world-famous Michelin guide, also a Parisian creation. Andres Michelin published the first Michelin guide in 1900 and began what would become the most respected culinary rating tradition in the world.

Notable French Restaurants

Part of any study abroad, especially that of a student chef, must consist of a foray into the local cuisine.

• Taillevent is a 5-star restaurant in the heart of Paris. Menu includes a variety of fish, cassoulet, and a to-die-for French wine list. Choose the tasting menu for a quick tour of menu highlights.
• Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athenee dishes up elegant traditional French cuisine and is one of the more popular Paris dining experiences.

Popular Paris Culinary Arts Schools

Le Cordon Bleu could be the most famous culinary school in the world. This formal world-class curriculum was created in 1895 and has roots back to Henry III. The school has campuses worldwide and maintains a close affiliation with a couple dozen Le Cordon Bleu campuses in the U.S. and Canada, part of Le Cordon Bleu North America. Expect the Paris program to be very competitive. This is THE main campus of this world-class cooking school. Paris programs include:

• Diplomas in Cuisine, Patisserie and the Grand Diploma-- a combination of the two. Certificate programs in Basic Cuisine, Intermediate Cuisine, Superior Cuisine and Basic Patisserie, Intermediate Patisserie and Superior Patisserie.
• Workshops or Short programs include 1 to 3 hour classes such as, Crepes and savory pancakes, foie gras, terrines, and shellfish.
• Continuing education programs last 1 to 4 weeks and include: plated desserts, chocolate and confectionary, and skills in patisserie.