Books, Food & Drink, France (Outside of Paris), Paris, Travel

From Paris to Provence: Exploring Julia Child’s Life and Legacy

February 22, 2025

Julia Child, the beloved American chef, author, and television personality, is synonymous with French cuisine. Her passion for cooking was ignited in France, and her influence on American kitchens remains undeniable. With the Julia Child: A Recipe for Life exhibit currently in Cincinnati, Ohio, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how her time in France shaped her legendary career.

A Love Affair with French Cuisine

Julia Child’s journey with French cooking began in 1948 when she and her husband, Paul Child, moved to Paris for his work with the U.S. Foreign Service. When they arrived, they lived in St. Germain des Près in the 7th and she often went to Les Deux Magots. When they arrived, she was in her late 30s, with no formal culinary background, but her first meal in France—an exquisite sole meunière in Rouen—was a revelation. The rich flavors, meticulous techniques, and artistry of French cooking captivated her, sparking a lifelong passion.

Goodwin-Les-Deux-Magots-Paris-10-x-8 — Artist Lindsay Goodwin “Les Deux Magots, Paris” oil on canvas 10 x 8 in

Various restaurants she frequented in Paris still exit today like Le Grand Véfour, Brasserie Lipp, Café de Flore, and Les Deux Magots.

The Cordon Bleu and Beyond

Determined to master French cuisine, Julia enrolled at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Paris. At a time when professional cooking was largely a male-dominated field, she persevered, learning the intricacies of classical French techniques. Her love of food and rigorous training led her to join L’École des Trois Gourmandes, a cooking club she co-founded with Simone Beck and Louisette Bertholle. Together, they set out to introduce authentic French cuisine to American audiences.

Mastering the Art of French Cooking

Julia and her colleagues spent years perfecting recipes and techniques, ultimately producing Mastering the Art of French Cooking, published in 1961. The book demystified French cuisine, providing detailed, accessible instructions that made intricate dishes achievable for home cooks. The two-volume work remains a culinary bible for those who appreciate French food.

Bringing French Cooking to America

Following the success of her book, Julia’s vibrant personality and deep knowledge of French cuisine led to her groundbreaking television show, The French Chef. Premiering in 1963, the show introduced Americans to French cooking techniques with warmth, humor, and an infectious enthusiasm that made the kitchen feel accessible rather than intimidating. Her impact was revolutionary, inspiring generations to cook with confidence.

Goodwin-23292-Copper-and-Orange-Topiaries-at-Chateau-de-Chenoncean-48-x-36 — Artist: Lindsay Goodwin
Copper and Orange Topiaries at Chateau de Chenonceau
oil on canvas
48 x 36 in
56 x 42 in framed. Available through Jones and Terwilliger Gallery

Julia Child’s Home in the South of France

Later in life, Julia Child and her husband, Paul, found solace in their charming home in Provence, in the village of Plascassier, near Grasse, France. Known as “La Pitchoune” or “The Little One,” this retreat became a haven for culinary experimentation and hospitality. Nestled in the idyllic countryside, this retreat became a haven for culinary experimentation and hospitality.Julia designed the kitchen to be both practical and inspiring, complete with custom-built countertops and pegboards for her iconic collection of cookware. Here, she hosted friends, cooked elaborate meals, and continued her lifelong mission of bringing French cuisine to the world.

Spectacular architectural sites in provence France abbayedesenanque — The Abbaye Notre Dame de Sénanque, Provence, France

Today, La Pitchoune, now affectionately known as “La Peetch” is open to the public primarily through week-long retreats and vacation rentals. Guests can immerse themselves in the ambiance of Julia’s former home, which still retains its original kitchen design. Culinary retreats such as the “Cook Camp” experience offer hands-on, recipe-free cooking classes, market visits, and activities like wine tasting and truffle hunting. For those looking for a unique getaway, La Pitchoune provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to step into Julia Child’s world and cook in the very kitchen where she once prepared meals.

Julia Child’s Legacy and the Cincinnati Exhibit

The Julia Child: A Recipe for Life exhibit, now in Cincinnati, offers a glimpse into the life of this culinary pioneer. Visitors can explore her journey, from her early days in Paris to her lasting impact on American cooking. Artifacts, interactive displays, and personal stories bring Julia’s world to life, celebrating her influence on food culture.

For those who admire Julia Child and French cuisine, this exhibit is a great way to learn about her life. Her story reminds us that it’s never too late to discover a new passion, and that food has the power to bring people together across cultures. Whether you’re whipping up a coq au vin or simply savoring a buttery croissant, Julia’s spirit lives on in every bite.