Is prior cooking experience required?

No prior experience is needed; the chef guides you step-by-step through each recipe.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?

Yes, but please notify the organizers in advance so they can accommodate your needs.

Is wine included in the price?

Complimentary wine is provided to guests aged 21 and over during the dinner.

How large are the class sizes?

Classes accommodate up to 16 participants to keep the experience interactive and personal.

Where is the class located?

In Philadelphia’s historic Old City neighborhood, convenient for visitors staying in downtown Philadelphia.

Can I take the recipes home?

Yes, recipes and cooking tips are shared so you can recreate the dishes at home.

Hands-On French Dinner Experience in Philadelphia: A Taste of Parisian Cuisine | Events | Food Tour

Philadelphia offers an unexpected portal to Parisian culinary tradition with the French Dinner Experience - Hands-on. This intimate, two-hour cooking class invites you to step beyond typical dining and into the heart of French gastronomy guided by an expert chef. Situated in the eclectic Old City neighborhood, this experience blends the city's rich historical vibe with the artistry of classic French cuisine. The evening begins with Gruyere Gougeres, delicate cheese puffs that awaken your palate, followed by the adventurous Escargot, a signature French delicacy. Each dish unveils authentic flavors and techniques, from marinating to slow braising. The star entrée, Coq Au Vin, is a slow-cooked chicken stew simmered in red wine that embodies the rustic elegance of French home cooking. To round the meal, indulge in a decadent Chocolate Mousse that offers a silky, rich finish to this carefully curated menu. For guests over 21, a complimentary wine selection perfectly complements each course, elevating the dinner into a true sensory adventure. What sets this experience apart is not just the menu but the interactive nature of the evening. You don’t merely watch; you participate, learning hands-on skills to recreate these dishes at home. This immersive format enriches your understanding of French culinary culture and provides a rare chance to engage with local food artisans in Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene. The French Dinner Experience is part of a growing movement to connect visitors with authentic, place-based food traditions while celebrating Philadelphia’s diverse gastronomic identity. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious foodie, this class is a standout for those wanting to expand their palate and cooking repertoire in a welcoming, lively environment. If you’re staying in Philadelphia, Old City’s proximity makes it easy to pair this experience with explorations of the Liberty Bell or historic cobblestone streets. This intimate gathering enhances any trip to Philadelphia, offering a delicious dive into the tastes and techniques that define French cuisine without leaving the city. Bring your appetite and enthusiasm for a night that promises both education and indulgence in every bite.

About Old City Kitchen

Old City Kitchen in Philadelphia offers hands-on culinary classes and private event bookings that focus on approachable, skill-building experiences.

The school features a rotating calendar of classes taught by experienced local chefs, including Chef Jeffrey Bretz, Chef Jeremy "Greenbeard" Smith, and Chef Justin O'Hanlon. Classes cover a wide range of cuisines and techniques — from pasta making, filled pastas, and Amalfi Coast specialties to pizza, focaccia, and bagel workshops. Baking and pastry offerings include gluten‑free French macaron classes and ice cream socials, while global options range from sushi-making and Spanish tapas to Mediterranean mezze and pierogi workshops.

Several experiences include complimentary beverages and wine; some classes are noted as naturally gluten-free or accommodate dietary needs. Old City Kitchen also hosts private events and team-building bookings; inquiries are handled via email at [email protected]. Many sessions are structured as hands-on, instructor-led workshops that combine demonstration with participant practice, designed for a range of skill levels from beginners to experienced home cooks.

Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the venue emphasizes interactive learning, practical techniques, and memorable social dining. The business presents a clear booking path for public classes and private events, and lists specific chef-led sessions to showcase expertise. These factual details make Old City Kitchen a reliable option for culinary classes, specialty workshops, and private culinary events in the Philadelphia area.

Participants often leave with recipes and skills they can reproduce at home, plus packaged items to take away when available, creating lasting value beyond the class timeframe. Perfect for gifts and gatherings.