Wondering what to buy for the foodie in your life who’s already got all the gadgets and gear? An interactive cooking class experience will yield delicious dividends for years to come.
ondering what to buy for the foodie in your life who’s already got all the gadgets and gear? An interactive cooking class experience will yield delicious dividends for years to come.
C’EST BON COOKING
Having grown out of their three-year-old Lowertown cooking studio space, the C’est Bon Cooking team has just opened a larger facility nearby with two kitchens, plus a fully-equipped meeting room. Daytime, evening and weekend classes emphasize techniques rather than being strictly recipe-driven. At C’est Bon, students learn not just the “how” but also the nuances of cooking, such as what a dough should feel like.
Chef Georges Laurier—a veteran on the local food scene—teaches most of the classes, with assistance from other experts. Students get hands-on experience preparing popular French-inspired dishes, with cuisines of Canada and the world highlighted in specialized sessions. From adult “learn to cook” classes, to couples and teen classes, there’s something for everyone including gluten-free baking, vegetarian and vegan classes.
These classes are ideal for social gatherings and celebratory events as well as corporate team building. To support students’ continuing culinary journeys at home, the new C’est Bon boutique offers such unique items as milkweed pods, spruce tips, birch syrup and more, along with products from the company’s walking and cycling food tour partners throughout Ottawa.
To inquire about available classes or private sessions contact: info@cestboncooking.ca.
SUPPLY AND DEMAND
In their newly-renovated teaching lab, chefs from Supply and Demand lead hands-on excursions into the wonderful world of fresh pasta. The curriculum varies seasonally, and students take home a recipe booklet along with unforgettable memories. The sleek, functional space accommodates 6 to 10 guests with everyone donning an apron to prepare two varieties of noodles. It’s an organic experience with a three-course menu that isn’t set until the class arrives and the chef has a chance to chat with participants.
The pasta classes are filled with “aha” moments and the session is more than just instructional—it also offers the full experience of cooking, eating, drinking and being merry. Guests are greeted with a glass of bubbly, then immersed into 90 minutes of hands-on activity before they gather around the worktable for a meal featuring their newly-created pasta and appropriate beverage pairings.
For available dates, contact: info@supplyanddemandfoods.ca.
LA BOTTEGA NICASTRO
For almost 25 years, La Bottega Nicastro in the ByWard Market has been known to locals and visitors alike as an exceptionally fine food shop offering all things Italian. For the past two decades, La Bottega has also specialized in Italian food and wine classes.
Offered at the back of the bustling market in a cozy cooking and dining space that feels a bit like an exclusive, Old-World trattoria, the classes introduce participants to guest chefs and wine experts who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to each event. La Scuola Bottega (the Bottega School) is a chance for individuals, couples and groups to enjoy a range of opportunities, including private, customized cooking classes and guided wine tastings for special events or corporate groups.
With a maximum class size of 18, everyone has a good view of the demonstrations in the kitchen and, depending on the style of the class, may get to try out some of the techniques being showcased. Communal dining—complete with wine pairings, of course—adds to the evenings’ festive atmosphere.
For more information about upcoming classes contact: events@labottega.ca.
ADDITIONAL COOKING CLASSES IN THE OTTAWA AREA
Le Cordon Bleu—beginners and pros alike can benefit from a full schedule of culinary short courses ranging from one afternoon to four days, taught by the school’s chef instructors. To find out about scheduled classes, call 613-236-2433.
The Urban Element offers a variety of cooking classes—both hands-on and demonstration—led by some of Ottawa’s top chefs. All classes include a multi-course meal with beverage pairings. Email: joanne@theurbanelement.ca to learn more.
The Piggy Market runs popular sausage making classes where students learn all aspects of making fresh sausages, plus tricks of the trade to prepare them smoothly at home. Classes are held on the last Thursday evening of each month; find out more by contacting: info@thepiggymarket.com.
The Ottawa Chinese Cooking Studio delivers a full range of hands-on Asian cooking classes (Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indian, Korean and Vietnamese) with a communal dinner afterwards. Classes are held Monday, Thursday and Saturday evenings; learn more by emailing: chinesecookingstudio@gmail.com.
Chefs at Massine’s Cooking School at the Independent Grocer on Bank Street features a diverse range of classes taught by top local chefs such as Rene Rodriguez and Joe Calabro. Sessions take place several evenings each month. Contact: info@chefsatmassines.ca for details.
The Pelican School of Fish invites students into the Pelican Seafood Market & Grill kitchen to learn about buying and preparing fish. Cook, socialize and enjoy your meal with wine pairings. Classes are held 1–2 Thursday evenings per month; for additional information contact: info@pelicanfisheryandgrill.com.
Paula Roy
