Aix-en-Provence – Lesson with Chef Gilles

Aix-en-Provence – Lesson with Chef Gilles

Cook near Aix with Chef Gilles, a native of Provence who acquired his love for cooking from his mother and grandmothers! Your cooking day will begin at 9:30 with a visit of the old town food market of Aix-en-Provence. Gilles will tell you stories about the area and the town, and you will have a chance to meet some of his favorite producers. Having lived four years in California, Chef Gilles’ English is excellent. You will select ingredients for the day’s menu based on seasonal availability, and will then head back to Gilles’ home for your class. On the way there, stop by his favorite wine merchant to select wines for the meal, and at the local goat cheese maker’s ranch to purchase cheese.

Gilles’ large, 12-acre property lies just four miles outside of Aix. He will show you his organic vegetable garden before leading you to his kitchen, where you will participate in a hands-on cooking class in which he will teach you the skills and knowledge he has acquired over many years as a French family home cook. Your menu might include such tasty items as tapenade, savory tarts, Provencal mussels, Bourride, rack of lamb, potato gratin, poached pears, apple tart, or crepes. After the cooking course, you will enjoy what you have created in a leisurely lunch. Gilles’ philosophy is that food brings people together and allows them to share a common experience. What better way to spend a day in Provence than by spending a day in Gilles’ shoes and living the day as a Frenchman!

• Morning market visit and class: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (approx.)

Note: transportation for 2-6 people is included to/from Gilles’ house. For larger groups, please inquire.