Cooking in Paris: A Scholarship Journey with Chef Krystle Pitcher

My trip to Paris, France was absolutely amazing! I arrived after a smooth flight, and thanks to Sodexo Live, a personal car service was arranged for my airport arrival. My hotel was conveniently located , just a 4-minute drive or a 12-minute walk from École Lenôtre.

On my first day of class, I felt a little nervous, but that quickly faded. I was greeted with warmth and open arms — a true example of great hospitality. My instructor, Chef Pascal Kamin, is an ICC Catering World Champion and spoke fluent English, which made the learning experience even more engaging.

Over the course of three incredible days, Chef Pascal taught me countless techniques and helped me elevate my plating skills. I’m so appreciative that he allowed me to record each step as he explained everything in detail, giving me the chance to study and review later.

I also had three wonderful classmates who helped me mise out ingredients since most of the labels and instructions were in French. The highlight of my time at École Lenôtre came on the final day, when Chef Pascal asked me to prepare a dish that represented me and my heritage. Inspired by my grandmothers, who were both amazing cooks, I prepared a smothered chicken and gravy dish with tomatoes, seasoned rice, and carrots prepared in a way that mimicked sweet potatoes.

Overall, my experience was truly phenomenal , life-changing, in fact. The lessons I learned during those three ten-hour days will stay with me forever. I now have the tools to elevate not only my recipes but also my presentation and plating.

I am deeply grateful to Sodexo Live for awarding me this scholarship, and to NOCHI for partnering with them to create such a transformative opportunity for students.

— Chef Krystle Pitcher