Whether you consider yourself a gourmet, a gourmand, or simply a foodie, The Cook’s Atelier offers the culinary program for you in Burgundy. Tucked away on a tiny street in the historic center of Beaune, this small cooking school is devoted to exploring the regional culinary traditions, local food artisans and the small family farms in Burgundy.
As you open the door you quickly realize you are in for a special treat. Guests are welcomed with aromas from the kitchen and are greeted with a glass of chilled crémant, the region’s sparkling wine. The table is set with fresh flowers and plenty of candlelight fills the room. Fine glassware mixes with vintage French linen napkins and seasonal vegetables adorn the fireplace. The atelier is a light-filled space, with big French windows lined with boxes of favorite herbs and fresh salad greens. The décor is simplistic with wooden floors and pale walls. The season’s offerings are casually displayed on creamy, white vintage French platters and fill the apartment with the colors of the season. Depending on the time of year, there may be a large bowl filled with apples just picked from the garden or a compote of fresh raspberries for the day’s tart. Open shelves line the wall in the atelier’s kitchen and are filled with vintage finds from the local brocantes, homemade confiture and favorite cookbooks. Vegetables gathered from the morning’s visit to Madame Loichet’s garden fill the table in the atelier’s kitchen.
The Cook’s Atelier is a magical place where people come together to celebrate real food, made from scratch. It is much more than a traditional cooking school, the convivial aspects and friendships that are found are just as important as the recipes. You never know who you will be sharing lunch or dinner with as guests come from all over the world to share in the experience of cooking together and sharing a meal. We honor the relationships that we have with the people who spend their lives growing good food and the traditions passed down from generations of cooks. It’s a unique experience that fosters the connection between the farmer and the cook. Life long friendships are made with the guests as they share a meal together and a good glass of pinot noir. You will learn the techniques of traditional French cooking in a relaxing and convivial environment.
The Cook’s Atelier caters to both the cooking aficionado and those who simply enjoy good food, good wine, and a passion for the joie de vivre. In addition to the market tours and hands-on cooking classes, The Cook’s Atelier is available for workshops and private dinner parties by reservation. Please see our classes + workshops page for more information.
