What would Julia Child do?
Just like Amy Adams’ character, Julie, in Julie & Julia, when faced with a problem in the kitchen, we’ve been asking ourselves that very question.
When applied to finding our next weekend getaway, we discovered that Ottawa is home to our country’s only Le Cordon Bleu school. Problem solved – since the original celebrity chef would certainly suggest we gather a group of culinary enthusiasts and take a weekend course at the world-renowned institution.
What to Do: At Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa, we had the option to train with Master Chefs for three hours or for three days. We opted for a class in Gourmet Pizza (3 hours, $245 per person), where we experimented with various cheeses and got creative by topping one pie with lamb, and another with calamari and capers. We also found new topping options in black beans and fresh snow peas – making our pizzas both organic and original masterpieces. Now expertly educated, our pizzas will always be inspired works of art, worthy of the most discerning dinner guest.
Next up: Two days of training in the art of Spanish Tapas ($445 per person), where we’ll learn the difference between banderillas and bruschetta.
Where to Stay: In keeping with the French flair of Le Cordon Bleu, we checked into Chateau Laurier. The gorgeous property defines opulent luxury, and offers incredible weekend rates through The Art of Women Package ($239/room/night, double occupancy). The hotel’s breakfast alone is worth the trip!
Where to Eat: Wander through The ByWard Market and pick up fresh berries for breakfast ($2). In the evening, Murray Street Restaurant is a must for the locavore who loves her charcuterie and cheese paired with old and new world wines. Julia would approve and, in keeping with her love for all things française, we tucked into the Mariposa Duck, duck, duck (duck three ways, $26). Très, très, très délicieuse!
Sweet Tip: Planning a trip to Ottawa? Check out these foodie fests in the capital city this fall:
Ottawa GreekFest: August 13-23
Feast of Fields: September 13
La Vendemmia: September 14-20
Tastes of ByWard: October 21-25
Ottawa Wine & Food Show: November 6-8
Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa
www.cordonbleu.edu
453 Laurier Avenue East
Ottawa
1-888-289-6302
Le Chateau Laurier
www.fairmont.com/laurier
1 Rideau Street
Ottawa
1-866-540-4410