Looking for the best hands-on cooking classes in New Orleans? The Mardi Gras School of Cooking offers hands-on Cajun and Creole cooking classes in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Guests learn to cook Louisiana dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, pralines, and bread pudding in a fun, chef-led experience.

Whether you're visiting New Orleans for the first time, celebrating a special occasion, or looking for a memorable group activity, our classes provide a fun and interactive way to experience local culture. Guests learn to prepare iconic dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, pralines, and bread pudding while gaining practical cooking skills they can use at home.

What We Offer

At Mardi Gras School of Cooking, we believe the best way to experience Louisiana cuisine is by making it yourself. Our classes are designed to be engaging, educational, and accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

During each session, guests receive step-by-step instruction from experienced chefs who share cooking techniques, ingredient knowledge, and the history behind Louisiana's most beloved dishes. Every class combines hands-on participation with storytelling, making the experience both entertaining and informative.

The Mardi Gras School of Cooking classes feature:

  • Hands-on Cajun and Creole cooking instruction
  • Small-group learning environment
  • Authentic Louisiana recipes to take home with you
  • Expert guidance from professional chefs
  • Interactive cooking stations
  • Opportunities to taste and enjoy your creations
  • Family-friendly experiences
  • Free soft drinks, wine, and local beer
  • Classes suitable for beginners and experienced cooks

Whether you're passionate about food or simply looking for unique things to do in New Orleans, our classes offer an unforgettable culinary adventure.

See Our Cooking Classes in Action

Experience the excitement of preparing authentic Cajun and Creole dishes alongside our talented chefs. Watch how guests learn, cook, and enjoy Louisiana's most iconic recipes during one of our hands-on cooking classes in the heart of the French Quarter.

Where We Are Located

Mardi Gras School of Cooking is located at 519 Wilkinson St, Suite 101, New Orleans, Louisiana. We are conveniently located in the historic French Quarter, one of the most iconic neighborhoods in New Orleans. Our central location makes it easy for visitors staying downtown, in the Warehouse District, Garden District, or nearby hotels to join a class during their stay.

The French Quarter's vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and world-famous food scene create the perfect setting for an authentic Louisiana cooking experience. After your class, you can continue exploring nearby attractions, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues throughout the city.

Our location provides visitors with a unique opportunity to combine sightseeing with one of the most popular cooking classes in New Orleans.

Who Our Cooking Classes Are Best For

The Mardi Gras School of Cooking classes are designed to welcome a wide variety of guests. Whether you're traveling solo or visiting with a large group, you'll find an experience that is entertaining, informative and teaches you about Louisiana’s unique culture.  

These classes are ideal for:

Visitors and Tourists

Discover Louisiana culture through its food while learning recipes you can recreate at home. See our perfect three-day itinerary here. 

Couples 

Enjoy a unique date experience while preparing and sharing delicious Cajun and Creole dishes together.

Families

Our classes offer a fun and educational activity that allows families to spend quality time together.

Food Enthusiasts

Expand your culinary skills and gain deeper insight into the flavors and traditions that define Louisiana cuisine.

Groups and Celebrations

Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, bachelor and bachelorette parties, reunions, and other special occasions with a memorable cooking experience.

Gifts for Food Lovers

Give a gift they'll actually remember. A hands-on cooking class includes a three-course meal, complimentary soft drinks, beer, and wine, plus the recipes to recreate it all at home. It's a far more meaningful experience than a dinner out, and the perfect present for anyone who loves exploring a culture through its food.

Public Cooking Classes in New Orleans

Our public classes are perfect for individuals, couples, and small groups looking to experience authentic Louisiana cooking. These scheduled sessions allow guests to cook alongside fellow food lovers from around the world.

Each class focuses on traditional Cajun and Creole recipes while providing practical cooking techniques and cultural insights. Participants enjoy a welcoming atmosphere where learning and fun go hand in hand.

Public classes often feature dishes such as:

If you're searching for engaging French Quarter cooking classes, our public sessions are a great way to experience New Orleans cuisine firsthand.

Private Cooking Classes

For guests seeking a more personalized experience, we offer private cooking classes tailored to your group's needs and interests.

Private classes provide exclusive access to our instructors and cooking space, allowing for customized menus, flexible scheduling, and a more intimate atmosphere. Whether you're planning a family gathering, birthday celebration, or special event, a private class creates lasting memories while bringing people together through food.

Benefits of private classes include:

  • Customized culinary experiences
  • Flexible class times
  • Dedicated chef instruction
  • Exclusive group participation
  • Ideal setting for celebrations and special occasions

Mardi Gras School of Cooking private classes can accommodate a variety of group sizes and experience levels.

Corporate Team-Building Cooking Events

Looking for a creative team-building activity in New Orleans? Our corporate cooking events encourage collaboration, communication, and problem-solving in a relaxed and engaging environment.

Cooking together naturally promotes teamwork while allowing participants to develop new skills and build stronger relationships. Teams work together to prepare authentic Louisiana dishes, creating a shared experience that extends beyond the kitchen.

Corporate groups choose Mardi Gras School of Cooking for:

  • Team-building activities
  • Client entertainment
  • Employee appreciation events
  • Conference and convention experiences
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Leadership retreats

Our team can help customize the event to meet your organization's goals and schedule.

Photos From Our Cooking Classes

Book Your Cooking Class

Experience authentic Louisiana cuisine through one of the best hands-on cooking classes in New Orleans. Whether you're interested in a public class, private event, or corporate team-building experience, Mardi Gras School of Cooking offers an unforgettable culinary journey in the heart of the French Quarter.

Learn traditional recipes, connect with fellow food lovers, and create lasting memories while discovering the flavors that make New Orleans famous.

Ready to get cooking? Book your class today and experience Louisiana cuisine like a local.

Book Your Cooking Class

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need cooking experience to participate?

No. The Mardi Gras School of Cooking classes are designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners.

How long do classes typically last?

Most classes run for approximately two to three hours, depending on the menu and event type.

What dishes will I learn to prepare?

Menus vary by class but commonly include traditional Cajun and Creole favorites such as gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, bananas foster, pralines, and bread pudding.

Are private group classes available?

Yes. We offer private experiences for families, friends, corporate groups, and special celebrations.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Most dietary needs can be met. Please contact us before booking to discuss dietary needs and available accommodations.

Is the class suitable for tourists visiting New Orleans?

Absolutely. Many guests consider our classes one of the most memorable cultural experiences during their visit to the city.