Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the New Orleans School of Cooking is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your experience.
Location and History
The school is housed in a beautifully renovated molasses warehouse built in the early 1800s, specifically at 524 St. Louis Street, between Chartres and Decatur. Since its inception in 1980, the New Orleans School of Cooking has been introducing visitors from around the world to the wonderful food and rich culture of New Orleans and Louisiana[1][4][5].
Cooking Classes
The school offers a variety of cooking classes, each designed to provide an engaging and educational experience.
Open Demonstration Classes
These classes are perfect for those who want to watch, learn, and enjoy the culinary expertise of local chefs. The morning class, held from 10am-12:30 pm, features four classic Cajun/Creole dishes, while the afternoon class, from 2pm-4pm, showcases three dishes. These classes are entertaining and informative, with chefs sharing history, trivia, and tall tales along with the cooking techniques[5].
Open Hands-on Classes
For a more interactive experience, the hands-on classes allow guests to prepare a complete dinner under the guidance of an expert chef. These small, intimate classes are limited to 10 people and require pre-registration. Participants will cook and then enjoy the meal they have prepared[5].
Group Classes
The school also offers private demonstration classes and hands-on classes for groups of 25 or more and 8 or more, respectively. These are ideal for corporate team-building activities, school field trips, or other group gatherings. Customized menus and amenities can be arranged to suit the group’s interests[5].
Menu and Cuisine
The classes focus on teaching the basics of Louisiana cooking, with a emphasis on Cajun and Creole cuisine. Some of the classic dishes you can expect to learn about or prepare include Gumbo, Jambalaya, Corn & Crab Bisque, and Pralines. The chefs are well-known local experts who bring these dishes to life with their skills and storytelling[1][4][5].
The Louisiana General Store
Adjacent to the cooking school is the Louisiana General Store, which is open from 9am-6pm Monday through Saturday and 9am-4pm on Sundays. The store offers a wide range of locally sourced products, including Cajun and Creole spices, cookbooks, gift baskets, cookware, and the school’s famous seasoning, Joe’s Stuff. This is a great place to pick up some authentic Louisiana products to take home[1][4][5].
Special Events and Tours
In addition to the regular classes, the New Orleans School of Cooking can be booked for special events such as corporate team-building activities, rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, and family reunions. There is also a combined cooking class and cocktail walking tour available, where you can learn about Louisiana cuisine and then explore the French Quarter’s historic bars and sample some of New Orleans’ famous cocktails[3][5].
Practical Information
Address: 524 St. Louis Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
Class Times: Morning classes from 10am-12:30 pm, afternoon classes from 2pm-4pm
Prices: Demonstration classes start at $28.00, hands-on classes at $139.00 per person
Contact: Book online at WWW.NOSOC.COM or call 504-525-2665
Store Hours: 9am-6pm Monday-Saturday, 9am-4pm Sundays
Most Important Facts About the New Orleans School of Cooking
Location: 524 St. Louis Street, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130[1][4][5].
Established: Since 1980[1][4][5].
Classes: Offers demonstration classes, hands-on classes, and group classes focusing on Cajun and Creole cuisine[5].
Menu: Includes dishes like Gumbo, Jambalaya, Corn & Crab Bisque, and Pralines[1][4][5].
Louisiana General Store: Open 9am-6pm Monday-Saturday and 9am-4pm Sundays, offering locally sourced products[1][4][5].
