Frequently Asked Questions About The Mardi Gras School of Cooking
Welcome to The Mardi Gras School of Cooking! Below you will find answers to our most frequently asked questions about our hands-on cooking classes, team-building events, private parties, and everything else you need to know before your visit. If your question is not answered here, contact us at (504) 344-3977 or email chef@mgscnola.com.
General Questions About The Mardi Gras School of Cooking
What is The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is a hands-on Cajun and Creole cooking school located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Founded in 1988, the school offers chef-led cooking classes, team-building events, and private parties where guests learn to prepare classic Louisiana dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, bananas foster and pralines in a fun, interactive setting.
Where is The Mardi Gras School of Cooking located?
The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is located at 519 Wilkinson Street, Suite 101, in the heart of the French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana. The venue is easily accessible on foot from most French Quarter hotels and is close to popular attractions, restaurants, and public transportation options.
Who are the chefs at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
The school's chef team includes culinary professionals trained at top institutions like the Culinary Institute of America and the French Culinary Institute. Chefs such as Chef David Harrower, Chef Mark Falgoust, Chef Erika Mooney, and Chef Raymond Signal bring decades of experience from renowned New Orleans kitchens. Each chef is passionate about sharing the history and techniques behind authentic Louisiana cuisine.
Is The Mardi Gras School of Cooking good for tourists visiting New Orleans?
Absolutely. The Mardi Gras School of cooking is one of the top-rated activities for tourists visiting New Orleans. Located in the French Quarter, it offers visitors an authentic, immersive way to experience Louisiana food culture beyond just dining at restaurants. Guests leave with recipes, cooking skills, and a deeper understanding of Cajun and Creole culinary traditions they can recreate at home.
What makes The Mardi Gras School of Cooking different from other cooking schools in New Orleans?
The Mardi Gras School of Cooking stands out with its fully hands-on format, small class sizes for personalized attention, and professional chefs who combine expert instruction with storytelling and humor. The school focuses exclusively on authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine, and every class includes a full meal you cook and enjoy yourself.
Cooking Classes in New Orleans
What cooking classes does The Mardi Gras School of Cooking offer?
The school offers five unique hands-on class menus: the Roux Class (gumbo, étouffée, bananas foster), the Traditions Class (barbecue shrimp, jambalaya, bread pudding), the New Orleans Creole Class (corn and crab bisque, shrimp creole, pecan pralines), the Vegetarian Class (gumbo z'herbes, corn maque choux, praline bread pudding), and the Brunch Class (shrimp and grits, eggs benedict, praline bacon).
What dishes will I learn to cook in a New Orleans cooking class?
Depending on the class you choose, you may learn to prepare iconic Louisiana dishes including chicken and andouille sausage gumbo, shrimp étouffée, New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp, chicken and sausage jambalaya, corn and crab bisque, shrimp creole, pecan pralines, bananas foster, chocolate bread pudding with brandy mocha sauce, and New Orleans-style shrimp and grits.
What is the difference between Cajun and Creole cooking?
Cajun cooking originated from the French-speaking Acadian settlers in rural Louisiana and emphasizes hearty, one-pot dishes with bold seasonings. Creole cooking developed in New Orleans and blends French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences with more refined techniques and ingredients like tomatoes and butter. At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, you learn to prepare both Cajun and Creole cooking styles and understand the history behind each tradition.
How long do the cooking classes last?
Hands-on cooking classes at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking typically last between 2.5 to 3 hours. This includes instruction on ingredients and techniques, hands-on preparation of all dishes, and time to sit down and enjoy the full meal you have cooked. The pace is relaxed and immersive, so you never feel rushed.
Do I need cooking experience to take a class?
No prior cooking experience is needed. The classes are designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced home cooks. The chefs provide step-by-step guidance on every technique, including knife skills, making a roux, and seasoning. Everyone participates at their own comfort level while learning professional tips and techniques.
How many people are in each cooking class?
Public cooking classes at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking are kept small, typically limited to around 10 participants per session. This intimate class size ensures personalized attention from the chef, hands-on participation for every guest, and a more engaging, interactive learning experience compared to larger cooking schools.
What is the best cooking class in New Orleans for beginners?
For beginners, the Traditions Class at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is an excellent starting point. It covers foundational techniques like knife skills and working with the Cajun Holy Trinity while preparing approachable yet iconic dishes like jambalaya and barbecue shrimp. All classes welcome beginners, and chefs guide you through every step.
Can I take a Cajun cooking class in the French Quarter?
Yes. The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is located in the French Quarter of New Orleans and offers hands-on Cajun and Creole cooking classes daily. You can walk from most French Quarter hotels to the school. Classes cover authentic Louisiana dishes with expert chef instruction, making it one of the most popular cooking experiences in the French Quarter.
What cooking class in New Orleans teaches you how to make gumbo?
The Roux Class at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking teaches you how to make an authentic chicken and andouille sausage gumbo from scratch. You will learn to build a dark Cajun roux, prepare the Holy Trinity, and develop deep, layered flavors. The class also includes shrimp étouffée and bananas foster.
What to Expect During Your Class
What should I wear to a cooking class in New Orleans?
Wear comfortable, casual clothing that you do not mind getting a little messy. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety in the kitchen. The school provides aprons for all guests during the classes. There is no dress code beyond these practical recommendations, so come ready to have fun and cook.
What do I need to bring to the cooking class?
You do not need to bring anything. The Mardi Gras School of Cooking provides all ingredients, cooking tools, utensils, and aprons. Optional drink add-ons like a Champagne Bar or Bloody Mary Bar are also available at checkout.
Is the cooking class BYOB?
No, all of The Mardi Gras School of Cooking classes include soda, beer, and wine in the price of your ticket. The school also offers add-on drink packages including a Champagne Bar and a Bloody Mary Bar, each serving 4 to 6 people for $250.
Do I get to eat the food I cook in class?
Yes. Every cooking class at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking includes a full three course sit-down meal at the end of the session. You prepare a complete multi-course menu during the class, then sit down together with your fellow classmates and chef to enjoy everything you have cooked. Wine, beer, sodas, and water are typically included.
Will I receive recipes to take home after the class?
Yes. Guests receive the recipes for all dishes prepared during the class so they can recreate the meals at home. The chefs also share tips on ingredient sourcing and substitutions so you can make authentic Cajun and Creole dishes no matter where you live.
Is The Mardi Gras School of Cooking wheelchair accessible?
The school is located on the ground floor at 519 Wilkinson Street, Suite 101, in the French Quarter and is accessible to wheelchair users. For specific accessibility questions or to discuss accommodations, please contact the school directly at (504) 344-3977 or chef@mgscnola.com prior to booking.
Booking, Pricing, and Availability
How do I book a cooking class at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
You can book a cooking class online through the school's website at themardigrasschoolofcooking.com by clicking "Book A Class" and selecting your preferred date and class type. You can also call the school directly at (504) 344-3977. Online booking is handled through FareHarbor and allows you to see real-time availability.
How far in advance should I book a cooking class in New Orleans?
It is recommended to book at least a few days to a week in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons such as Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and holiday weekends. Classes have limited spots due to small class sizes, and popular time slots fill up quickly. Last-minute availability may be limited.
Can I cancel or reschedule my cooking class reservation?
The school has a refund and cancellation policy in place. For details on cancellations, rescheduling, and refund eligibility, contact the school directly at (504) 344-3977 or chef@mgscnola.com. Booking early and confirming your schedule is always recommended.
Does The Mardi Gras School of Cooking offer gift cards?
Yes. The Mardi Gras School of Cooking offers gift cards that can be purchased online through the website. Gift cards make a great present for food lovers, tourists planning a trip to New Orleans, or anyone who enjoys hands-on culinary experiences. They can be redeemed for any public cooking class.
What payment methods does The Mardi Gras School of Cooking accept?
The school accepts major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and Diners Club. Digital payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Shop Pay are also accepted. All payments are processed securely through the website or at the venue.
Dietary Restrictions and Food Allergies
Does The Mardi Gras School of Cooking offer vegetarian cooking classes?
Yes. The school offers a dedicated Vegetarian Class featuring plant-based Cajun and Creole dishes including gumbo z'herbes (a traditional green gumbo), corn maque choux, and pecan praline bread pudding with salted caramel sauce. This class showcases the depth and flavor of Louisiana cuisine without meat or seafood.
Can The Mardi Gras School of Cooking accommodate food allergies?
Yes. The school can accommodate food allergies and dietary restrictions with advance notice. Whether you have shellfish allergies, gluten sensitivities, or other dietary needs, the chefs will work to adjust recipes so you can still participate fully. Contact the school before your class to discuss specific requirements.
Are gluten-free options available in the cooking classes?
The school can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs with advance notice. Many traditional Cajun and Creole dishes are naturally gluten-free or can be easily modified. Notify the school when you book your class so the chefs can prepare appropriate alternatives and ensure you have a complete, enjoyable experience.
Is the cooking class suitable for people who do not eat seafood?
Yes. While many Louisiana dishes feature seafood, the school offers classes and menu options that use chicken, andouille sausage, and other non-seafood proteins. The Roux Class and Traditions Class include chicken-based dishes. Contact the school in advance to discuss your preferences and the chefs will accommodate you.
Team-Building Cooking Events in New Orleans
What team-building activities does The Mardi Gras School of Cooking offer?
The school offers hands-on cooking team-building events where groups are divided into teams and compete in a friendly cooking challenge. Teams work together to prepare Cajun and Creole dishes, and chefs award points based on presentation, teamwork, use of ingredients, taste, and charisma. Events include all instruction, ingredients, and a shared meal.
How many people can participate in a team-building cooking event?
Team-building events at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking accommodate groups of up to 40 people. Events are popular with national corporations, school groups, and family reunions. The school can customize the format, number of dishes, and duration based on your group size and goals.
How long do team-building cooking events last?
Team-building events typically last between 2.5 to 3 hours. This includes hands-on cooking time, instruction from professional chefs, the team competition, and enjoying the meal together. The exact duration can be customized based on how many dishes your group wants to prepare and your schedule.
What is included in a corporate team-building cooking package?
The package includes a private cooking class, all ingredients and cookware, step-by-step chef instruction, cooking stations, and a full shared meal. Optional add-ons such as a Champagne Bar or Bloody Mary Bar are available. The school handles all setup and cleanup so your team can focus entirely on the experience.
Is The Mardi Gras School of Cooking a good team-building activity in New Orleans?
Yes. The school is one of the top-rated team-building activities in New Orleans. Cooking together builds communication, collaboration, and creativity in a relaxed, fun environment. The competitive cooking challenge format adds excitement, and teams leave feeling energized and more connected. It is ideal for corporate retreats, off-site meetings, and company outings.
Private Events and Corporate Parties
What types of private events can be hosted at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
The school hosts a wide range of private events including corporate parties, birthday celebrations, bachelorette and bachelor parties, family reunions, wedding-related events, holiday gatherings, client appreciation dinners, and company retreats. Every event features a hands-on culinary experience customized to your group.
How many guests can The Mardi Gras School of Cooking accommodate for private events?
The venue offers multiple event spaces. The Jazz Room holds up to 15 guests, the Mardi Gras Room and Lagniappe Room each hold up to 25 guests, and the Carnival Room accommodates up to 80 guests for receptions and banquets. The full venue can host events for up to 125 guests.
Can I host a birthday party at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
Yes. The school is a popular venue for birthday parties in the French Quarter. Birthday events feature a hands-on cooking experience led by professional chefs, a custom menu based on your preferences, and an intimate, fun atmosphere. It is a unique alternative to traditional party venues in New Orleans.
Is The Mardi Gras School of Cooking a good venue for bachelorette parties?
Yes. The school is a top-rated bachelorette party venue in the French Quarter. Groups enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with a fun, social atmosphere. The BYOB policy and optional Champagne Bar make it festive. After the event, the French Quarter's nightlife and restaurants are right outside the door.
Can I customize the menu for my private event?
Absolutely. The school offers customizable menus for all private events. Whether you want classic Cajun and Creole dishes, Southern-inspired cuisine, or specific dishes to match a theme, the chefs will work with you to create the perfect culinary experience. Dietary restrictions and preferences are accommodated with advance notice.
How do I book a private event at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
To book a private or corporate event, fill out the event request form on the Private and Corporate Events page of the website, or contact the school directly at (504) 344-3977 or chef@mgscnola.com. It is recommended to book at least two to four weeks in advance, especially for larger events.
Location, Parking, and Getting There
What is the address of The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is located at 519 Wilkinson Street, Suite 101, New Orleans, LA. The school is situated in the French Quarter, one of the most walkable and well-known neighborhoods in the city. It is easily accessible from hotels, restaurants, and attractions throughout the French Quarter.
Is there parking near The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
The French Quarter has limited street parking, but several public parking garages and lots are available within walking distance of the school. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also convenient options for getting to and from the venue. The school is within walking distance of most French Quarter hotels.
Can I walk to The Mardi Gras School of Cooking from my hotel in the French Quarter?
Yes. The school is centrally located in the French Quarter, so most guests staying in the area can easily walk to the venue. It is also accessible from the Central Business District, the Warehouse District, and the Marigny neighborhood by a short walk or rideshare.
What are The Mardi Gras School of Cooking's hours of operation?
The school offers morning, afternoon, and evening class sessions seven days a week at 10am, 2pm and 6pm. For the most up-to-date schedule and available time slots, visit the booking page on the website at themardigrasschoolofcooking.com or call (504) 344-3977.
Gift Shop and Souvenirs
Does The Mardi Gras School of Cooking have an online gift shop?
Yes. The school operates an online shop at themardigrasschoolofcooking.com featuring New Orleans-themed merchandise including apparel, cookbooks, aprons, kitchen tools, roux spoons, spices and seasoning mixes, glassware, coasters, and locally made art. Items can be shipped or picked up at the French Quarter location.
Can I buy Cajun and Creole spices and seasonings from The Mardi Gras School of Cooking?
Yes. The school's online shop sells authentic Cajun and Creole spice blends and seasoning mixes that you can use to recreate Louisiana flavors at home. These make great souvenirs or gifts for food lovers. Browse the Spices and Mixes collection on the website to see available products.
What is a good souvenir from a New Orleans cooking class?
The Mardi Gras School of Cooking's gift shop offers a variety of New Orleans-themed souvenirs including branded apparel, authentic roux spoons, Cajun spice mixes, local cookbooks, kitchen towels, and handmade art. A gift card for a cooking class also makes an excellent and memorable souvenir for friends and family.
New Orleans Food Culture and Travel Tips
What is the best thing to do in the French Quarter besides Bourbon Street?
A hands-on cooking class at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking is one of the top-rated activities in the French Quarter beyond Bourbon Street. Guests get to experience authentic New Orleans food culture by cooking Cajun and Creole dishes with professional chefs. It is a unique, interactive alternative to traditional sightseeing and dining.
What is a roux and why is it important in New Orleans cooking?
A roux is a mixture of fat and flour cooked together and used as the base for many Louisiana dishes including gumbo and étouffée. The color and flavor of the roux, which ranges from light to dark, determines the character of the dish. At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, you learn to make a roux from scratch using traditional Cajun and Creole methods.
What is the Holy Trinity in Cajun and Creole cooking?
The Holy Trinity is a combination of onion, celery, and bell pepper that serves as the aromatic base for most Cajun and Creole dishes. It is the Louisiana equivalent of the French mirepoix. At The Mardi Gras School of Cooking, every class teaches proper knife techniques for cutting the Holy Trinity and building flavor from this essential foundation.
What is the best time of year to visit New Orleans for a cooking class?
New Orleans is a great destination year-round, and cooking classes at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking are available every season. Popular times include Mardi Gras (February or March), Jazz Fest (late April to early May), and the fall festival season. Booking early is recommended during peak travel periods as classes fill up quickly.
Still Have Questions?
Contact us anytime. We are happy to help you plan the perfect New Orleans cooking experience.
Phone: (504) 344-3977 | Email: chef@mgscnola.com
Address: 519 Wilkinson Street, Suite 101, New Orleans, LA | French Quarter
themardigrasschoolofcooking.com