Marian signed up for a private cooking lesson at Cook’n With Class.  Eric Fraudeau is the owner and instructor.  I had the pleasure of joining them to eat what Marian prepared.  In my opinion, this was the best meal during our time in Paris.  Eric can be reached at eric@cooknwithclass.com.  www.cooknwithclass.com.  As his school was under construction, the class was conducted at his home.

Marian arrived in Paris before me, while it was sunny and hot.  As this was her first time in Paris she took a couple of tours so she could see the major spots quickly.  Luckily she went up the Eiffel Tour on the only clear day that week.  She also took a day tour to the Chateau de Fontainebleau while I soaked up local color.

My timing finally coincided with a performance at the marionette theater in the Jardin du Luxembourg.  I didn’t understand a word, but I enjoyed watching the children watching the marionettes.

"The pleasurable experience of cooking with Chef Eric Fraudeau renewed itself the day after I returned from Paris as I was shopping at my neighborhood grocery market.  I discovered 'mache' (described as lamb's lettuce), an ingredient we used to make the White Asparagus Salad with Citrus and Coriander Dressing.  The three-course lunch, featuring Poulet Grand-Mere, was sumptuous.  Eric's tutorial of me as engaged student was patient yet informative.  Most enjoyable was Eric as host and ambassador of French cuisine and culture.  The best tribute, I hope, is my goal of re-creating this splendid vacation experience for friends and family.  They are vying for lunch dates!"

-- Marian S., Los Angeles