School’s in session: Cooking classes in Montreal
Montreal is famous for its chefs. And, these culinary masters also happen to be generous; they offer their expertise at a number of academies, restaurants and cafés. Take classes on gourmet cooking in the heart of Old Montreal, or delve into Indian, Italian or Moroccan cuisine at cooking schools equipped with kitchens and culinary artists to teach you the basics. [Image credit: iStock.com/Izabela Habur]
Ateliers et Saveurs
444, rue Saint-François-Xavier, Montréal, QC H2Y 2T3Old Montreal is cooking class central, and Ateliers & Saveurs is one of the best. You'll find these guys are hands-on, so you won't be forced to just sit and watch or listen. Professional chefs are available to show you how to prepare fast gourmet meals, world cuisine, brunches or pastries. Prices are reasonable, too.
Académie Culinaire
360, rue du Champ-de-Mars, Montréal, QC H2Y 3Z3Another Old Montreal original, Académie Culinaire has an extensive selection of classes (for children or adults) and cuisines, including Asian and European, as well as new culinary trends. If you want to dazzle your friends and loved ones, why not take a class for a special occasion, like Christmas, or perfect your bread-making skills? Private kitchen workshops are also available.
La Guilde Culinaire Inc
6381, boul Saint-Laurent, Montréal, QC H2S 3C3La Guilde Culinaire is equipped to suit all culinary skill levels, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned foodie looking to raise the bar. Impress your friends by acquiring techniques from expert chefs, and consider joining large or private classes. Stressed about an upcoming office meeting? Gain that “savoir faire” by planning a corporate event sure to impress coworkers and supervisors.
Librairie Appetite For Books Inc
388, av Victoria, Westmount, QC H3Z 2N4Let Chef Jonathan take you on a culinary adventure across multiple countries, including Jerusalem, Italy and China. Jonathan Cheung is the co-author of “Montreal Cooks,” and the actual concept of Appetite For Books is (as it suggests) cooking inspired by cookbooks. For example, there's a cooking class inspired by “Jamie's Italy” by Chef Jamie Oliver, and other classes inspired by books on pastries and tapas.
Elliott Cohen Culinary Art
5452, av Duquette, Montréal, QC H4A 1J6Don't let the name intimidate you; Elliott Cohen Culinary Art focuses on the basics of cooking, including presentation, techniques and nailing each one of those meal components: appetizers, salads and mains. Lessons are offered in both French and English, weekdays and weekends, and the prices are fair.
Chocolate Academy
4850 Molson Street, Montréal, QC H1Y 2C3With a whole army of chefs, armed with wooden spoons and cocoa, Chocolate Academy Montreal is your place for bon bon basic training. How does this sound: chocolate and whisky? These guys have a gazillion different chocolate-making classes – everything from confectionery basics to designer chocolates. If your palate craves something richer, you'll be pleased to find pastry classes are also available.
