Tour some of France's most famous pastry kitchens
Springtime in Paris: If recent bouts with blinding snow, icy sleet and arctic temps have you hoping for spring's early arrival, I have a trip for you.
Cake stylist Mark Seaman of Marked for Dessert and The Neighborhood Bakeshop (Libertyville and Chicago) will lead a 10-day, pastry-enthusiasts tour of Paris and Lyon, France, Tuesday, April 28, through Thursday, May 7.
The educational journey will include behind-the-scenes glimpses into some of the most famous pastry kitchens, bread bakeries and food markets in France. You'll visit chocolate shops, tour legendary pastry chef Alain Ducasse's Plaza Athenee and take a hands-on class at Institut Paul Bocuse.
The tour costs $8,769 and includes lodging, most meals, culture activities and transportation in France. Get more details at markedfordessert.com.
Closer to home: If you can't wait until spring for chocolate and pastry, head to Cocoa Bean Fine Desserts and Bakery in Geneva for a couple of cooking classes.
From 9 a.m. to noon Sundays Jan. 18 and 25, chefs will show you how to make some of their popular chocolate creations. The classes cost $40 each and reservations are required. Contact the shop, 11 S. Seventh St., at (630) 845-2990 to hold your spot.
• Contact Food Editor Deborah Pankey at (847) 427-4524 or food@dailyherald.com.