New Orleans: Hands-on Cajun Roux Cooking Class

If you’re looking to bring some authentic Louisiana flavor home, this hands-on Cajun Roux Cooking Class in New Orleans might just be the experience for you. It’s not just about following recipes—it’s about understanding the techniques behind some of the city’s most iconic dishes, in a setting that’s as welcoming as it is educational. From hearty gumbos to decadent desserts, you’ll leave equipped with practical skills and a new appreciation for Creole and Cajun cuisine.

What caught our eye about this experience? First, the small group setting (limited to just 10 people) ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. Second, the professional guidance and local secrets shared during the class make it feel like you’re cooking with a friendly neighbor rather than a formal instructor. However, a potential consideration is that children under 10 aren’t accepted unless they’re willing participants—so this isn’t a fit for tiny tots or casual drop-ins.

This class seems ideal if you’re genuinely interested in learning to cook, love good food, and want to pick up some tips from local experts. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a interactive experience that combines history, culture, and culinary mastery—all in a cozy, French Quarter setting.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience that teaches professional techniques and secrets of Cajun and Creole cuisine
• Small group size (maximum 10) for personalized guidance
• Includes all ingredients for dishes like gumbo, etouffee, and bananas foster, plus drinks
• Location in the heart of the French Quarter offers a truly local ambiance
• Tasting your own creations makes the class particularly rewarding
• Suitable for children over 10 who love to cook and are willing to participate

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Cajun Roux Cooking Class in New Orleans

When you sign up, you’re stepping into an experience that’s as much about the culture as it is about the cooking. The class is hosted in a cozy spot in the French Quarter—an area famous for its vibrant food scene—giving you a taste of local life right at your fingertips. You won’t just be cooking; you’ll be learning about the ingredients, history, and traditions that make these dishes so special.

Starting off, the instructor will welcome you and your fellow participants—usually a small group of up to 10—creating an intimate environment. You’ll get to know your classmates over a glass of wine (or beer, or soda), which sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly session. The instructor will then walk you through the essentials of Cajun and Creole cooking, emphasizing the Holy Trinity—onions, celery, and bell peppers—as the foundation of many dishes.

The focus of the class is on practical techniques. You’ll learn how to cut, prep, and season ingredients, and master the all-important roux—dark for gumbo, light for etouffee. The instructor shares local secrets and tips for seasoning just right, which can make the difference between a good dish and a memorable one. Expect to get hands-on with making chicken and andouille sausage gumbo, a hearty stew that’s a staple of Louisiana kitchens.

Once the roux is ready, you’ll move on to the shrimp etouffee, which involves a lighter roux and more seafood. This dish is all about balancing flavors, and you’ll have the chance to learn how to get that perfect consistency. While waiting for things to cook, you can ask questions and enjoy more drinks, making the experience social and fun.

The finale is making and flambéing Bananas Foster—a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is theatrical. The instructor demonstrates a fool-proof method, so you’ll leave knowing how to impress friends and family with this classic Louisiana treat. Once everything is plated, it’s time to sit down and savor your culinary creations. The class includes lunch or dinner, allowing everyone to enjoy what they’ve made.

The Value of the Experience

At $158 per person, this class offers good value if you’re eager to improve your home cooking with authentic skills. What makes it worthwhile isn’t just the dishes you’ll learn—though those are tasty—but the professional techniques and local insights shared during the session. The drinks, including complimentary wine, beer, sodas, and water, add to the relaxed atmosphere and make the three-hour experience enjoyable from start to finish.

The small group limit (10 participants) ensures that everyone gets individual attention, making it easier to ask questions and refine your technique. The location in the French Quarter means you’re immersed in the heartbeat of New Orleans, which adds a cultural component that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.

A reviewer from Canada described the experience as “everything was great,” which hints at the overall positive vibe and quality of the class. The instructor’s knowledge seems to be a highlight, with many appreciating the local tips and secrets that elevate the dishes beyond recipes you could find online.

Practical Details for Your Visit

• Duration is around 3 hours, making it an easy addition to a day’s sightseeing.
• The class typically runs in the morning, afternoon, and evening, offering flexibility.
• The meeting point is Suite 101 on the ground level, easily accessible in the French Quarter.
• Children over 10 are welcome if they’re keen to cook, but the class isn’t suitable for younger kids or those not interested in hands-on cooking.
• Reservations are flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Class?

This Cajun Roux Cooking Class is a real treat for anyone who loves food and wants to learn authentic Louisiana techniques. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy interactive experiences, appreciate small-group intimacy, and are eager to bring home new kitchen skills. If you’re a foodie, curious about Creole and Cajun flavors, or just want a fun cultural activity, this class ticks all those boxes.

While the price might be a little steep for casual snackers, it’s well worth it if you’re serious about cooking or want a memorable, hands-on experience. The combination of knowledgeable guidance, local secrets, and the chance to enjoy your own culinary creations makes it a standout activity in New Orleans.

For families with children over 10 who share a love of cooking, this could also be a memorable outing—though it’s not tailored specifically for kids. If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, it’s a great way to meet like-minded foodies. And if you’re craving a genuine taste of New Orleans in a comfortable, relaxed environment, look no further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this class suitable for children?
Children over 10 who love to cook and are willing to participate can join. It’s not suitable for younger kids or those not interested in hands-on cooking.

What dishes will I learn to cook?
You’ll learn to make chicken and andouille sausage gumbo, shrimp etouffee, and bananas foster.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the class offers complimentary wine, beer, sodas, and water throughout the session.

Where is the class held?
It takes place at Suite 101 on the ground level in the heart of the French Quarter—an ideal location for immersion in local culture.

How long does the class last?
The experience is approximately 3 hours, with sessions available in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a group activity?
Yes, limited to 10 participants, creating a cozy, interactive setting.

Do I need to bring anything?
All ingredients, instructions, and drinks are provided—just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!

If you’re in New Orleans and want to take home more than just memories—like some new culinary skills—this class offers a friendly, authentic way to do so. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just someone eager to learn, it’s a flavorful slice of the city’s culture that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: