Learn to Cook the New Orleans Way
When you travel to New Orleans, one thing is for sure; you’re going to eat some of the most incredible food in the entire world. But when it’s time to head home, what if you could recreate some of your favorite Nola dishes in your own kitchen? The Big Easy showcases several opportunities to test your culinary skills and learn to cook the New Orleans way.
Depending on your time and budget, you can attend a cooking demonstration, take a group class, or book a private session. You’ll learn how to make some of the most popular New Orleans and Cajun-inspired dishes, like seafood gumbo, corn maque choux, and pralines.
New Orleans School of Cooking
Known for its Cajun and Creole food experts, this school teaches two kinds of classes. Choose a demonstration class to sit back and enjoy the entertainment of cooking. Book a hands-on session to roll up your sleeves and get to work.
Both classes guarantee a recipe card and meal. When you get hands-on, you’ll get to prepare the meal yourself and a New Orleans School of Cooking apron.
This cooking school is also home to the Louisiana General Store. After a class, you can pop in and grab some local ingredients to make your recipe at home. Or get some new cookware to fit your newly cultivated chef skills.
Mardi Gras School of Cooking
Another school of Cajun and Creole cuisine but with five classes of your choosing!
Take your pick of the roux, vegetarian, New Orleans Creole, traditions, and brunch classes. Each offers its own menu options like shrimp and grits, bananas’ foster, or chicken and andouille sausage jambalaya.
Learn professional tips and tricks as well as secrets to the special seasoning of New Orleans cuisine. You can add a champagne or a Bloody Mary bar for an extra boozy cooking session.
New Orleans Culinary and Hospitality Institute (NOCHI)
Located in the CBD, this culinary institute offers classes for both casual and serious chefs.
Enjoy a private enthusiast class with friends led by local chefs, or take a deep dive into international cuisine. Want to learn more about cheese and wine pairings? Book a cheesemonger or sommelier course.
If you’re in NOLA for an extended stay, NOCHI offers 100-day certificate programs where you can learn knife skills, stocks, and sauces, or the art of breadmaking and confectionery arts.
Drink Lab
To take a bit of the boozy indulgence of New Orleans home with you, take a trip to Drink Lab. Learn the mixology of New Orleans from master bartenders. This interactive cocktail-making experience will introduce you to the moves behind the Sazerac, Gin Fizz, and the Hurricane.
Not in the mood to make your own drinks? No problem. You can also enjoy a wine or bourbon and whiskey tasting at Drink Lab.
Are You Hungry Yet?
Take a piece of New Orleans with you by enjoying one of these classes. They’re perfect for a uniquely Big Easy date night or a chance to make a new memory with friends, filled with mouth-watering and unforgettable cuisine.
The best part? They’re just a short walk or Uber ride away from our charming Nola Hotel Group properties.
