Top 20 Best Pastry Schools in France

Top 20 Best Pastry Schools in France

*Originally published by Natalie on October 2020 and Updated by Vanessa R in October 2022 and by Vanessa M in August 2023 and Updated by Vanessa R in September 2023

France is usually the top pick for aspiring pastry chefs; the country is known for having perfected the art of this cuisine long before all others.

Most of the best institutions are situated in Paris. There are a handful of other notable schools scattered around the country, but for the most part, one can expect to revive the very best education from the capital.

Here are the 20 you need to know about:

1. Le Cordon Bleu

Where: Paris

Le Cordon Bleu is a world renowned culinary institution based in the center of Paris. It’s known for having some of the most comprehensive courses on the continent, and students come from far and wide to enroll in their programs.

The school was founded in 1895, and offers everything from traditional French pastry, to bread making and even a vegetarian course. At le Cordon Bleu you’ll also be given the opportunity to learn wine pairing, which is not something offered at most cooking schools.

If you’re exploring the culinary wonders of Paris, consider immersing yourself in the city’s charm with a captivating Paris food tour. Uncover the hidden gems that complement your pastry education.

Le Cordon Bleu – by Le Cordon Bleu – Uploaded by them

Click here for the 10 best patisseries in Paris

2. Les Coulisses du Chef in France

Where: Paris

Also based in Paris, les Coulisses du Chef is another renowned institution, founded by the fantastic Chef Olivier Berté.

Here you’ll have your pick of some world class courses, ranging from the art of patisserie to cooking for coeliacs. This school is less exclusive compared to the aforementioned establishment, and anyone is welcome to enroll, even if just to broaden their culinary interest.

Les Coulisses du Chef is situated in the 2nd arrondissement; a vibrant part of the city and within walking distance to some of the best Parisian attractions. 

Here are The Best Pastry Workshops in Paris

3. L’École Lenôtre in France

Where: Paris

l’Ecole Lenôtre is considered to be one of the best pastry schools on the planet, and was founded by Gaston Lenôtre in 1971. The school is in Paris, and attracts students from over 100 different countries each year.

The education here is based on the most traditional French cuisine. All of the chefs have worked with the top dogs of the industry; Gaston Lenôtre himself is known for being one of the biggest names ever in pastry.

This school is a high pressure environment and extremely competitive. If there’s one way to throw yourself into the deep end when it comes to learning pastry, it’s at l’Ecole Lenôtre.

L’École Lenôtre – by L’École Lenôtre – Uploaded by them

4. L’École Ducasse in France

Where: Paris

L’Ecole Ducasse is somewhat of the new kid on the block in light of the Parisian pastry scene. It was only founded in 1999, which makes it much younger than the rest of the culinary schools in France. The campus is situated in the northwestern Parisian suburbs, and offers a 3 year Bachelor Degree in Pastry Arts.

L’École Ducasse – by L’École Ducasse – Uploaded by them

The school’s founder, Alain Ducasse, has 21 Michelin Stars combined, as of 2014. Classes are taught in both English and French, which makes this a very inclusive school indeed. Programs are hands-on and immersive; you’ll be working in the kitchen from day one.

For Michelin Star restaurants in Paris, click here!

5. L’Atelier des Sens in France

Where: Paris & Lyon

L’Atelier des Sens directly translates to “workshop of the senses”, and this is a fine indication of what to expect from enrolling here.

This school is favored by expats from the UK, as the classes are offered in English. The programs include trips to local markets, and even opportunities to work in the pastry kitchen with children.

They have a campus in both Paris and Lyon, so if you want a pastry experience that isn’t centered in the French capital, this may be the school for you.

6. La Cuisine Paris  in France

Where: Paris

If you’re more of an experiential learner, you may enjoy the approach taken by la Cuisine Paris.

This pastry school works through a series of programs, many of which involve actual outings to ‘foodie’ hotspots around the capital. Some are mandatory, and then there are tours on offer for anyone who wants to continue to explore French cuisine from the ground.

La Cuisine Paris – by La Cuisine Paris – Uploaded by them

All classes at la Cuisine are taught in English.

7. École de Cuisine La Varenne in France

Where: Paris, Burgundy & California

La Varenne culinary school considers itself to be ahead of the curve when it comes to teaching students from different global backgrounds. This was the first pastry school in France to incorporate a translation process as and when lessons are happening.

Classes are translated in real time from French to English, and la Varenne has recently added Japanese to their language list.

8. Ecole Ritz Escoffier in France

Where: Paris

The Place Vendome is one of the most enchanting spots in Paris, especially when the sun sets at the end of the day. Right here in the plaza is the entrance to Ecole Ritz Escoffier, a boutique pastry school offering short and long courses to all interested patrons.

This is a wonderful place for anyone simply looking to learn something new, or expand their current French culinary understanding. It’s an extremely professional estsablismet, with Michelin Star energy from the minute you step inside.

Ecole Ritz Escoffier – by Ecole Ritz Escoffier – Uploaded by them

9. National Superior School Of Pastry in France

Where: Yssingeaux

If you’d like to get out of Paris, look at the National Superior School Of Pastry. It’s just past Lyon in a village called Yssingeaux; a charming, medieval town with a wholesome feel.

Attending a course over the Christmas season is one of the most enchanting things you’ll ever do. The village is blanketed in snow, and your walk to class each morning feels like something out of a French fairytale.

Click here for Christmas traditions in France 

10. Gastronomicom in France

Where: Agde

If you value the rural school feel, but are not partial to being deep inland in France, take a look at Gastronomicom on the coast, just west of Marseille.

The reviews left by ex-students of this school are something worth noting. There seems to be a heightened level of camaraderie for all who attend the establishment. You’ll obtain skills that can be used across all cuisines.

It’s also wonderful that Gastronomicom is situated a short drive from the Spanish boarder, just 3 hours from Barcelona, making weekends a lot more exciting. 

Gastronomicom – by Gastronomicom – Uploaded by them

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11. Bachelor in International Pastry Management

Thomas Trevethan Chef by Thomas Trevethan from Wikimedia commons

WHERE: Château du Vivier, 1A Chemin de Calabert BP25 69131 Ecully Cedex

The French Culinary Institute is a prestigious pastry chef school that provides a top-notch program in pastry arts created by the legendary Jacques Torres. The main components of excellent pastry, from creation to presentation, are the emphasis of the program.

This enables you to plan pastry classes into your schedule. It lasts 6 months for day classes and 9 months for night classes. According to your level of expertise, the program is further separated into specialty and amateur classes. In addition to offering courses in New York and California, the French Culinary Institute also has various financial aid opportunities.

12. Ferrières, the School of French Excellence

WHERE: Rue du Château, 77164 Ferrières-en-Brie, France

Les Ateliers Ferrières benefits from the expertise and resources of “Ferrières, the School of French Excellence” and offers experts and novices the core skills necessary to become top-tier culinary artisans. In order to broaden their horizons and increase their knowledge, French and foreign students are introduced to extensive technical skills.

13. Gastronomicom International Culinary

WHERE: 8 Rue des Moulins À Huile, 34300 Agde, France

A global culinary institute ranked 10th overall is Gastronomicom, which was established in 2004. Students from all over the world are welcome at this attractive university in the south of France. It offers English-language cooking and pastry classes in addition to French instruction.

The institution offers many one-month to one-year courses for both professionals and beginners that result in certificates and degrees in French language competency, culinary arts, and pastry arts from French government ministries.

Additionally, this organization offers paid internships in prestigious establishments like Relais-Chateaux and other locations praised by the French Michelin Guide, such as luxury French restaurants.

14. Ferrandi Paris: The French School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management, Paris 

WHERE: 28 Rue de l’Abbé Grégoire, 75006 Paris, France

You may enjoy French cuisine while learning about French culture at Ferrandi Paris.
The college is highly regarded for providing excellent, exceptional instruction. Its basic tenet is that perfection can only be obtained by putting in a lot of work and adhering to rigid standards. It calls for complete mastery of all techniques, provides experience in real-world situations, and encourages the growth of managerial skills and creativity.

Both vocational (CAP Post-BAC) and bachelor’s degree programs in culinary arts and entrepreneurship are available as courses. Students obtain world-class culinary skills through this curriculum, as well as administrative and entrepreneurial skills.
The programs provided by Worldsdom and IPC Wines & Spirits, which are famous for their profound knowledge of wines and spirits, are also accessible to students enrolled in the Bachelor’s degree at the Bordeaux campus.

15. Lenôtre Quai Henri IV, School of Culinary Arts, Paris

Photo by Vita Marija Murenaite on Unsplash

WHERE: Quai Henri IV, 75004 Paris, France

École Lenôtre is a renowned culinary institute where aspiring pastry chefs and cooks learn how to turn their passion into a profession. Professionals from all over the world come to the institute to learn well-known Maison Lenôtre dishes and develop their own cooking methods.

Sharing information is a legacy of Gaston Lenôtre, the creator of contemporary pastry creation and the man behind École Lenôtre. It is also one of the guiding principles of the company.

The abilities of the Lenôtre craftsmen have been sincerely sought out, developed, and passed down by successive generations of cooks. The institution offers certification, advanced courses for individuals looking to expand their skill sets, and specialized support to provide value and ensure long-term food service efforts.

16. Alain Ducasse Education

WHERE: École Ducasse

The respected culinary school Alain Ducasse Education was founded by the well-known chef Alain Ducasse. This school offers outstanding instruction in the culinary arts, including pastry and cuisine, and is known for its dedication to culinary excellence. By putting an emphasis on accuracy, originality, and the use of premium ingredients, Alain Ducasse Education prepares young chefs for a successful career in the field of gourmet cuisine and pastry.

17. L’École Valrhona

WHERE: Marais district

L’Ecole Valrhona is a culinary institute with a focus on chocolate and pastry skills. This school, created by renowned French chocolate producer Valrhona, is a paradise for both pastry chefs and chocolate connoisseurs. It provides thorough instruction in the great art of manufacturing chocolate, from bean-to-bar methods to creating excellent chocolate treats, and is located in the Rhône Valley.

L’École Valrhona is a destination for people looking to learn the art of working with chocolate and advance their pastry abilities to a world-class level because of its strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability.

18. Le Nôtre, Nice

Photo by tabitha turner on Unsplash

WHERE: 14 Av. Félix Faure, 06000 Nice, France

On the French Riviera, in the beautiful town of Nice, there is a branch of the famous Lenôtre culinary school called Le Nôtre. It provides excellent pastry and culinary training in a lovely Mediterranean location. The culinary and pastry arts of France are taught to students at Le Nôtre Nice, who also get to experience the flavours and ingredients of the area. A wonderful option for developing chefs and pastry lovers, the school’s dedication to excellence is complemented by its lovely surroundings.

19. Ritz Escoffier, Paris

WHERE: 15 Pl. Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France

The famous Ritz Hotel is home to the renowned culinary school Ritz Escoffier in Paris. This esteemed school offers outstanding training in the culinary and pastry arts. In an elegant and historical setting, students get the exceptional chance to learn from some of the best chefs in the business. Ritz Escoffier is linked with culinary brilliance and is a dream location for anyone wishing to improve their abilities in the centre of Paris, the world’s culinary capital.

20.Ecole Nationale Supérieure de la Pâtisserie

WHERE: town of Yssingeaux

The famous pastry school Ecole Nationale Supérieure de la Pâtisserie is located in the charming French town of Yssingeaux. This establishment is respected for its commitment to tradition in pastry workmanship and dedication to safeguarding French baking skills. It is the perfect option for people who want to learn the ancient recipes and techniques that define French pastry because students at this school receive thorough instruction in them.

Pastry Schools: 5 Reasons Why France Has the Best in the World

1. Culinary Tradition and Heritage

France has a vast and illustrious culinary heritage. Its cuisine has been formed by centuries of cultural influences, regional variances, and the hard work of dedicated chefs. Pastries and desserts are part of this culinary tradition.

Photo by Nadin Sh from Pexels

French patisserie (pastry) has evolved into an art form over time, combining accuracy, inventiveness, and a strong appreciation for fine ingredients. This illustrious culinary legacy provides a solid foundation for pastry instruction in France.

Pastry skills, recipes, and knowledge have been honed and improved through the years. As a result, French pastry schools inherit a plethora of information and expertise, which they include into their courses.

Students who attend these schools learn not just the technical skills required for pastry manufacturing, but also about the cultural and historical value of French desserts. They learn about classic dessert dishes and the tales behind them. This cultural background enriches their education and helps them appreciate the legacy they are inheriting.

2. Expert Pastry Chefs

France is home to a number of world-renowned pastry chefs who have contributed significantly to the field of pastry arts. Their achievements, unique processes, and innovative approaches to dessert production have earned them international renown.

Photo by Klaus Nielsen from Pexels

For prospective pastry students, these skilled pastry chefs serve as role models and sources of inspiration. Their success demonstrates the amount of ability and inventiveness that can be attained via adequate training, and they frequently engage with pastry schools to conduct workshops and share their thoughts, thereby improving educational quality.

Click here for The Best Culinary Schools in France

3. Specialized Pastry Education

French pastry schools provide specialized and extensive training in the pastry arts. Their curriculum includes fundamental baking methods, advanced pastry ornamentation, chocolate work, sugar artistry, and more.

Photo by Katerina Holmes from Pexels

Students are exposed to many areas of pastry making, ensuring that they graduate with a well-rounded skill set. The structured programs combine hands-on training, theoretical knowledge, and practical experience to help students acquire technical expertise as well as creative thinking.

4. Access to High-Quality Ingredients

France is known for emphasizing high-quality ingredients in its culinary creations which extends to the field of pastry. Fine chocolates, handmade butter, fresh fruits, and aromatic spices are among the finest ingredients available to French pastry makers.

Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

Because of the abundance of high-quality ingredients pastry chefs can experiment with flavors and textures, pushing the frontiers of inventiveness in their dessert creations. Working with the best ingredients is a key benefit that helps the quality of French pastries.

5. Apprenticeships with Real-World Experience

And finally, as an important element of their curriculum, many French pastry schools include practical, hands-on learning through apprenticeships and internships. Working with experienced pastry chefs in professional kitchens, bakeries, and patisseries allows students to get real-world experience.

Photo by Gustavo Fring from Pexels

Apprenticeships provide a unique opportunity to apply classroom knowledge, refine practices, and comprehend the industry’s real issues. Learning from expert mentors and taking part in the actual manufacturing of pastries prepares students for the rigors of a culinary career while also developing a strong work ethic and attention to precision.