History of L'Academie

 

 
Francois Dionot

Creating the Best Culinary School By Offering Classic Cooking Courses & Techniques 

 

Francois Dionot founded L’Academie de Cuisine in 1976. At the time, he was at the apex of a career that stretched from the prestigious Lausanne Hotel and Culinary School in Switzerland, to rigorous kitchens of French chefs and some of the finest restaurants in the United States. As a result of his culinary experience and vast knowledge obtained through in-depth study of classic cooking courses, he became firmly convinced that simple technique and dedicated practice were the foundations of a successful culinary career. With this understanding, and motivated by a passion to bring great food and superior cooking to American kitchens, Francois created L’Academie de Cuisine. 

For over three decades, our professional and recreational cooking courses, comprehensive curriculum and unique approach have contributed to numerous awards and achievements. From Top Chefs like Carla Hall, to Executive Chefs and masterful pastry chefs, we are proud that our classic cooking courses and programs continue to yield fantastic results and stellar alumnae. Dionot’s principles and vision have laid the foundation for one of the best culinary institutes in the country. Even our recreational cooking courses are taught with the same enthusiasm and dedication Chef Dionot infused into L’Academie from the very beginning.

Our Cooking Courses Are Taught By The Best Chefs & Culinary Professionals 

L’Academie’s chefs and instructors bring their enthusiasm for gastronomy to recreational and professional students alike. It is the shared passion of Chef Dionot and the L’Academie team that have made our culinary school the premier culinary school in the Washington, DC area and recognized as one of the finest culinary schools in the United States. We offer a comprehensive selection of professional culinary programs and cooking courses for all types students. 

What Types Of Programs & Cooking Courses Does L’Academie Offer?

Here are some of the programs and cooking courses we offer at L’Academie:

  •  Recreational Cooking Courses - Designed for beginner, intermediate and advanced cooks and food-enthusiasts. Learn baking, cooking, technique and more through our fun, engaging cooking courses.
  • Professional Programs – Designed for the aspiring professional chef-to-be. Choose from a full time culinary arts or pastry arts program.
  • Continuing Education Cooking Courses – Designed for those who currently work or want to work in the culinary profession. Students can enhance their skills and culinary techniques without committing to a rigorous full-time professional program.
  • Special Events – Designed for those who want to attend informational sessions, demonstrations and cooking events at L’Academie.

Whether you are beginning your career as a professional chef or want to enhance your home cooking skills, L’Academie offers something for everyone. Our history includes dedication, passion and the commitment to excellence necessary in building one of the finest culinary programs in the United States. We hope to see you in one of our professional programs or recreational cooking courses in the near future!

 

Chef Francois and Chef Somchet               staff test                Francois teaching