A French Cooking Class in Beaune, Burgundy

Nestled in a 17th-century building in the heart of historic Beaune, France, The Cook’s Atelier has been a beacon of French culinary tradition since 2008. It is a family-founded French cooking school, culinary boutique, and wine shop all under one roof.

Founded by mother-and-daughter team Marjorie Taylor and Kendall Smith Franchini. The Cook’s Atelier has earned an international reputation for its hands-on cooking classes, market tours, wine education, and celebration of traditional French cuisine.

Our Journey From Paris to Burgundy

Our experience at The Cook’s Atelier was nothing short of extraordinary. A short train ride from Paris brought us to Beaune in Burgundy.

Located in the heart of Burgundy’s wine country, Beaune is one of France’s most charming small cities and a popular destination for wine lovers and food enthusiasts. Known for its historic architecture, world-class vineyards, and vibrant culinary scene, it provides the perfect setting for an immersive French cooking experience.

The trip was a birthday gift for my son and part of my own milestone celebration as I turn 60 this year. As I embrace a season of midlife travel and meaningful experiences, this French cooking class in Burgundy felt like the perfect way to begin.

A Warm Welcome at The Cook’s Atelier

Upon arriving at The Cook’s Atelier, we were welcomed with delicious coffee before exploring the beautifully curated culinary boutique — a true temptation: so many beautiful things, for anyone who loves French cooking and entertaining.

From mushroom brushes and copper pots to linen napkins and regional Burgundy wines, every detail reflected the charm of French culinary culture.

It also gave us the perfect opportunity to meet our classmates before the cooking class began. So fun!

Cooking a Traditional French Menu in Burgundy

“Today, we’re preparing – Gougères (French cheese puffs), Cheese Soufflé, Médaillon de Boeuf with Béarnaise Sauce, and Butter Cake with fresh strawberries…” Yum!

While I piped the choux pastry for our cheese puffs, my son tied the médaillon de boeuf and prepared it for searing.

Making the roux for the soufflé

A Seven-Course Burgundy Dining Experience

With the basics completed, it was time to savour the fruits of our labour upstairs in the beautifully set dining room. I mean, c’mon! Look at this table! Their attention to detail is impeccable. It’s absolutely Gorgeous!

We were all very excited to begin our meal and sample the wine, carefully chosen by Laurent to complement our menu. We gathered around the table, feeling as though we’d been friends forever.

And what better way to kick off the culinary journey than with an apéritif of sparkling wine? Now we were ready for all seven courses (yes, seven!), including wines from the Burgundy region. Bien Sûr!

In addition to the dishes crafted by our class, our hosts treated us to a refreshing salad with citrus, parsley, and fennel, a fromage course, and traditional madeleines.

The entire meal undoubtedly ranks among my most memorable culinary experiences. It was simply top-notch, and I can’t wait to recreate it for everyone back home.

Lucky you guys 😉

Even a candle for my sons birthday…

Sadly, all good things must come to an end…

Is The Cook’s Atelier Worth It?

Without hesitation, yes. The Cook’s Atelier is much more than a cooking class. It’s a full culinary experience that combines hands-on instruction, exceptional food, carefully selected Burgundy wines, and the opportunity to connect with people from around the world.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or simply love French food and wine, the day is immersive, educational, and incredibly memorable. For me, it was the highlight of our time in Beaune and a birthday celebration I’ll never forget.

What an absolutely fantastic day. It was filled with learning, indulging, sipping, laughter, and connecting with an incredible group of people.

I’ll definitely be returning again soon.