Private Classes , Parties & Culinary Tours

Private Classes, Parties & Culinary Tours

"The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking you've got to have a what-the-hell-attitude ." -Julia Child

If you've always dreamed of taking a hands-on cooking class this is the perfect solution-- have Julie design your ideal cooking class or culinary tour of Napa. You'll work side-by-side with Julie learning the essentials of fine cooking. These intimate classes allow you to make the most out of your precious vacation time in Napa. These private cooking classes are personalized and help you quickly develop your skills and master new recipes and techniques. The menus are seasonal and feature food from local farms. Have a hands-on cooking class developed for you a half-day to a 5-day or depending on your schedule.

If you have no time to travel to Napa, you have the option to have the class in your own kitchen. This is a wonderful way to celebrate a special event.

When it comes to a topic for your class, the only limit is your imagination. Here are a few ideas to get you started cooking up your own memories.

  • Quintessential Wine Country-Explore bold fresh flavors --Roasted Butternut Squash Soup, Leek and Goat Cheese Tart, Syrah Braised Lamb Shanks with Gremolata, Roasted Salmon with Wild Mushroom Crust, and Deconstructed Black Forest Cake.
  • Italian — master recipes from homemade ricotta to Dungeness crab ravioli with Chicken cooked under a brick and panna cotta flavored with local wild flower honey.
  • Classic French-Build your technique with aioli with vegetables, Steak au Poivre or Chicken Paillard with Kumquats and Pear Tart with Almonds.
  • Impressive Hors d'oeuvres Class— mouthwatering morsels for cocktail parties.
  • Elegant Dining Class — from truffles and foie gras to luxurious grilled lamb or roast beef tenderloin with wild mushrooms and chocolate "lava" cake.
  • 5-day Basic Theory and Techniques Course-from the foundation of culinary arts stocks, meat, fish to dessert basics.
  • "Thanks so much for the fun week at cooking school. I am going to make some of the recipes next week. I think we are coming back next year if you'll have us." Wayne F.

    MENU IDEAS-

    Roasted Red Peppers with Sherry Vinegar
    Spanish Potato Chip Tortilla
    Paella of Chicken and Seafood
    Perfect Flan
    .......................

    Prosciutto with Warm Roasted Figs & Crunchy Hazelnut Picada
    White Sea Bass with Spinach, Roasted Polenta and Romesco
    Profiteroles with Cinnamon Ice Cream and Hot Fudge Sauce (aka cream puffs)
    .....................

    Homemade Smoked Salmon on Crostini with Wasabi Mayonnaise
    Pistachio-Crusted Rack of Lamb with Pancetta
    Braised Baby Greens
    Strawberry Balsamic Sorbet
    ......................

    Includes the meal you prepared, wine paired with your meal, private instruction, along with recipe booklet, resources, and a logo "COOKING with JULIE" apron.

    The fee for a private classes (Monday-Saturday)
    $ 850 for up to 4 students
    $1050 for up to 6 students
    $1350 for up to 8 students

    •For off-site classes a fee of $450 for transportation, set-up, break down plus additional staff applies.

    •Sunday class $200 fee.

    For more than 8 students please contact Julie (707) 227-5036.

    Additional options:
    •Custom souvenir video
    •Event photographer
    •Personalized aprons and other kitchen utensils.

    Substitutions maybe necessary depending on availability.

    The fee is based on the number of students, menu and upgrades in wine or food.

    Call (707) 227-5036 or email (julie@cookingwithjulie.com) Julie with your requirements.

    "We had two very fun days with you. Thanks for all of the good cooking tips, knife tricks, great recipes and inspiration." Pat & Tom

    CANCELLATION POLICY
    For private classes we are not able to refund or give credit for cancellations less than 21 days prior to the class/event unless we are able to fill your spot.

    Please understand we can not make exceptions.

    COOKING with JULIE
    (707) 227-5036
    julie@cookingwithjulie.com