The prestigious culinary institute Le Cordon Bleu was created in Paris in 1895 with the purpose of training the best professional chefs. Internationally admired since its early years, the Institute welcomed its first Russian pupil in 1897, and the first Japanese student in 1905.

Its reputation and popularity grew to such extent that in 1945 it became the only school in France accredited by the United States to re-train soldiers after World War II. Since that time Le Cordon Bleu has developed a successful international following, with 36 schools in 20 countries, and more than 23,000 students from all over the world. The school offers the most rigorous, intensive and practical curricula in the culinary arts, and promises a bright, successful future to aspiring chefs.

During the summer months, and taking advantage of the vacation cycle, the Institute offers one-day classes for wannabe chefs and gastronomic enthusiasts from their various international campuses. These are some of the most interesting courses to be held in major cities around the world.

PARIS

Dessert in a Glass
A workshop for the amateur gourmand. The students will be able to take home the resulting dishes. Two desserts will be prepared: pineapple and coconut West Indian style; and strawberry, pistachio and Speculoos, both served in glass containers, of course.
Date: August 3, 2013
Duration: 3 hours

LONDON

Boulangerie Workshop
This course introduces students to the basic baking principles to learn how to make different types of bread, with recipes that can be easily reproduced in their own home kitchens. The lesson will take place under the supervision of master chefs, and no prior experience is necessary. This is the ideal course for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Date: July 27 to August 10, 2013.
Duration: 1 day.

OTAWA

Summer Wine Tastings
Explore five different amazing wines in a masterful outdoor setting, under the guidance of a professional sommelier. Enrolled students can taste wines from all over the world, especially paired with delicious summer meals.
Date: August 8, 2013.
Duration: 90 minutes

TOKYO

Piña Colada Cocktails
The Piña Colada is one of the most popular Caribbean libations. Its main ingredients are rum, coconut cream and pineapple juice, but there are also many variants unknown to the general public. In this course, perfectly taught by a professional bartender, students will learn different preparations of this most tropical of drinks in an atmosphere of casual camaraderie.
Date: August 4, 2013.
Duration: 3 hours

MADRID

Summer Cooking
Le Cordon Bleu Madrid offers a course on summer menu planning. With imagination, good judgment and the help of veteran culinary instructors, students will learn how to prepare delicious salads, fish, seafood and grilled meats flavored with local spices, as well as traditional cold soups, such as the tasty and refreshing Vichyssoise or the Andalusian gazpacho.
Date: July 31, 2013.
Duration: 4 hours. ■