Cooking Class/Dinner W/ Celebrity French Chef OR Private Chef Ser

Discovering a Gourmet French Cooking Experience in St. Augustine

This review explores a unique culinary adventure in St. Augustine, where you can cook alongside a chef with an impressive resume—an Emmy and James Beard Award winner, no less. This isn’t just a cooking class; it’s an opportunity to learn real French techniques, savor locally sourced ingredients, and enjoy a meal in a warm, convivial atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, this experience offers a blend of education, relaxation, and authentic flavors.

Two aspects we particularly love are the personalized attention during the class and the opportunity to upgrade your experience for special menus and desserts. The chef’s background in television and awards hints at a professional yet approachable teaching style. On the downside, the cost of upgrades can add up, and during holiday times, the basic class might be unavailable—something to consider if you’re traveling during peak seasons.

This experience is well-suited for food lovers, couples, small groups, or anyone eager to learn French cooking techniques in a cozy setting. If you’re after a memorable, hands-on culinary adventure with a touch of celebrity flair, this class could be a highlight of your visit to St. Augustine.

Key Points

• Expert Instructor: Cook with Emmy and James Beard-winning Chef AlexG, bringing professional techniques and a friendly teaching style.
• Customization & Upgrades: Menus can be tailored, and upgrades include desserts, extra courses, and premium ingredients.
• Authentic Experience: Learn French cooking skills, knife techniques, sauces, and how to cook local vegetables and proteins perfectly.
• Tasting & Wine: Enjoy your creations with a glass of wine from the chef’s cellar, enhancing the meal with local flavors.
• Small Groups or Private: Limited to 12 guests in a public class, with options for private bookings up to 15 people.
• Value for Foodies: For $115, you get a comprehensive, hands-on class plus a gourmet dinner—offering good value for culinary enthusiasts.

A Deep Dive into the French Cooking Class in St. Augustine

The Setting and Overall Atmosphere

The class takes place at the chef’s location at 60 Julia Street, offering a cozy, intimate environment perfect for learning and tasting. The small group size—limited to 12 guests—ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd. This is critical because it means personalized attention, direct interaction with Chef AlexG, and the chance to ask questions about technique and ingredients.

This warm setting is also ideal for those who dislike large, impersonal cooking classes. The chef’s background in television and awards adds a sense of professionalism, but the environment remains friendly and inviting, making it suitable for all skill levels.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Do

The experience lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, during which you’ll actively participate in preparing a gourmet French meal or desserts. The class emphasizes learning techniques such as knife skills, sauce making, and proper cooking of proteins and vegetables sourced locally. It’s designed to be both educational and delicious.

You might also have the option to up your experience with special menus, including desserts like crème brûlée, where you learn to caramelize with a mini-torch. Upgrades include additional courses, premium ingredients, and special dishes like beet risotto, which was highlighted in reviews as part of the upgraded menu.

The Teaching Style and What You’ll Learn

Chef AlexG, with his impressive resume, teaches with a focus on French techniques, sauces, and proper seasoning. He’s known for making complex skills approachable—even for beginners. The class involves hands-on participation, not just watching, so you’ll be actively involved in chopping, stirring, and plating.

One review mentions, “Chef Alex was awesome! Would love to have the recipes,” highlighting that participants often leave with more than just new skills—they take home recipes and memories.

Food, Drinks, and the Dining Experience

After preparing your dishes, you’ll gather around the table to enjoy the fruits of your labor, complemented by a glass of wine from the chef’s cellar. This communal tasting allows you to savor your work and discuss techniques or ingredients with fellow food lovers.

The menu is flexible, with options to avoid ingredients or customize according to dietary restrictions—important for guests with allergies or preferences. During the class, you’ll also learn how to properly use tools like a mini-torch for caramelizing desserts, adding a fun, interactive element.

The Value and Pricing

At $115 per person, this class provides a comprehensive experience—combining education, hands-on cooking, wine, and a gourmet meal. When considering the cost, think of it as a culinary investment: you’re not just paying for a meal but gaining new skills, recipes, and a memorable experience. The available upgrades—like multi-course dining or premium ingredients—offer personalization, but they do come at an additional cost.

It’s worthwhile to note that during holiday seasons, the basic class may be unavailable, and all classes are considered upgrades, so plan accordingly. A 20% gratuity is added, which is standard for private chef experiences.

Authenticity and Unique Touches

The chef’s background in television and awards lends an authentic and professional touch. The focus on local, seasonal ingredients means your meal reflects the region’s fresh produce and flavors. The ability to customize menus ensures that your experience can suit your tastes or dietary needs, making it more than just a standard cooking class.

What Do the Reviews Say?

One guest raved, “Wonderful food and company! Highly recommend this experience. Chef Alex was awesome! Would love to have the recipes,” confirming that many find this class both enjoyable and worthwhile. Conversely, a less favorable review mentioned an unexpected additional charge—highlighting the importance of clarifying upgrades beforehand.

Is This Experience Right for You?

If you enjoy learning new cooking techniques and want to prepare authentic French dishes with a professional chef, this class checks many boxes. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate small, intimate group settings and are keen to enjoy wine and conversation as part of your culinary journey.

However, if you’re on a strict budget or prefer freeform, self-guided cooking at home, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, during busy holiday seasons, availability could be limited, so booking ahead is advisable.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This cooking class in St. Augustine offers a rare chance to cook with a renowned chef in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s ideal for foodies who want hands-on learning coupled with a delicious, well-curated meal. The ability to upgrade menus makes it a flexible option for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging your culinary curiosity.

For those wanting a personalized experience with expert guidance, this class offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to add a practical skill to their culinary repertoire. Remember, it’s not just about the food but the stories, techniques, and memories you’ll take home.

In short, if you’re looking for an authentic, intimate, and tasty adventure in St. Augustine, this class with Chef AlexG deserves strong consideration. Pair it with a walk around town afterward, and you’ve got a perfect day of flavor and discovery.

FAQ

Is this class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to teach French techniques in an approachable way, making it suitable for all skill levels, including beginners.

Can I customize the menu?
Absolutely. Upgrades allow for menu customization, including special dietary restrictions and favorite dishes.

What’s included in the price?
For $115, you get a hands-on cooking experience, a gourmet dinner, and a glass of wine from the chef’s cellar. Upgrades are extra.

How long does the class last?
Expect about 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time for cooking, tasting, and conversation.

Are group sizes small?
Yes, public classes are limited to 12 guests, ensuring personalized attention.

Can I book a private class?
Yes, private classes are available for up to 15 people, with pricing for the full experience available upon request.

What if I need to cancel?
The policy states no refunds for cancellations, but you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a partial refund, or up to 2 weeks in advance for a full refund.

Are gratuities included?
No, a 20% gratuity is added separately and is customary for private chef experiences.

This culinary journey in St. Augustine blends skill, authenticity, and a touch of celebrity charm—perfect for those who want to cook, eat, and learn a little French magic.