Today was one of my favorite days in Paris so far. We started the morning at the Ritz Paris, where I got to take a French pastry class at the École Ritz Escoffier. It honestly felt surreal to be inside such a historic and luxurious place. Our instructor, Chef Martin Millouet, walked us through how to make a chocolate tart from start to finish. He was super focused but also kind, and it was amazing to learn techniques from someone working at such a high level.
The process was very hands on we rolled the chocolate, made the filling, and learned how to make the dessert look as good as it tasted. I didn’t expect it to be so detailed, but it gave me a whole new appreciation for pastry as an art form. At the end of the class, I received a certificate with my name on it, which felt like a proud moment! After class, the manager of the school gave us a tour of the Ritz. We got to see parts of the hotel that most people never get access to. One of the most peaceful and unexpected spots was their private garden it was so quiet and beautifully kept, like a hidden oasis in the middle of the hotel. Later in the afternoon, I met up with some friends and we had lunch at a Lebanese restaurant called Le Chouf. The food was delicious and it was just a nice break to sit, chat, and enjoy something different. After that, I headed toward Galeries Lafayette, where I stopped at a boutique next door and bought a new perfume. The rest of the day I just wandered a bit, took in the sights, and enjoyed the feeling of being in Paris.
What I Learned:
- Pastry making is a craft that takes patience, technique, and an eye for detail.
- The Ritz is not just a hotel, it’s a piece of Parisian history, and learning inside it made the experience feel even more meaningful.
- Exploring a city through food, both in a classroom and out with friends, can be one of the best ways to connect with its culture.
Fun Facts:
- The Ritz Escoffier School is named after Auguste Escoffier, a legendary chef known as the father of modern French cuisine.
- The Ritz Paris has been home to celebrities, royalty, and even Coco Chanel, who lived there for 3 years!
