Ann's Smart School of Cookery - Chelmsford

d mj

I have only one criticism - we bought some tinned curry sauces from the school - the Use by Dates on the outside of these tins were different from those on the manufacturers packaging inside the tins - we are talking of over six months in both cases here.

I brought it to the schools attention by e-mail - their response was they are still fine to use even though theirs and the manufacturers Use by Dates were so very very different.

We were offered a refund by the school but chose not to take up the offer, deciding to err on the side of caution and throw the tins away instead - perhaps something you may wish to look out for if considering buying food products in the school classroom.

Otherwise a superb class, wonderful teacher and assistant. They made it so enjoyable for everyone, let us prepare, cook and taste our food whilst being very supportive and knowledgeable at the same time.

All in all excellent value for money, will certainly be looking to book more courses very soon - simply a superb afternoon which we both thoroughly enjoyed - thank you both very much.

Nikki Last

Fantastic experience! My partner and I have had our first visit to do the Chinese menu. Ann was such a fab host explaining everything in great, easy to understand detail.
We have walked away excited to book our next course. Thank you

Alice Sharman

My boyfriend and I attended the Spanish tapas and bottomless sangria course; it was bought for me as a birthday gift. I was really disappointed that the only option for me to participate was to crack and whisk some eggs, which I had already done for breakfast that morning. The class was too large and I did not come away feeling like I had learnt to prepare or cook any of the tapas dishes. Really disappointing. Too commercialised and heavily focused on upselling.

Sam Bromfield

Took part in the 5-hour masterclass (menu at end of review).

What a brilliant experience. Ann was incredibly hospitable, and the location is beautiful. The kitchen is well-equipped, clean and organised. After an introduction to what we would be doing and some background information, we were all put to work. It certainly felt like everyone got to have practical hands-on experience of trying lots of different skills, observing demonstrations from Ann, and being empowered to talk the rest of the class through what you might be prepping.

Over the course of the class, a litany of helpful tips and tricks were given, from prep methods to storage, to souring and substituting ingredients, minimising food waste, getting the most out of your ingredients, kitchen equipment and food hygiene. I actually wish I brought a notebook with me!!

Onto the food - the quality was phenomenal (even if I did overseason a component at one point with garlic oil!!) and there was no shortage either, everyone was able to fill their boots. The menu has clearly been put together with care to be able to teach a variety of different skills, from sous-viz to different cut techniques, frying, baking, pureeing, and home-made pasta - and I'm really scratching the surface.

I will certainly be back!

Appetizer of peppered Seared steak with a wasabi sauce on a crispy crostini
Crispy flatbreads with coco bean hummus
Langoustine bisque with prawn tortellini
Pan roasted duck breast with Fondant Potatoes, caramelised baby
vegetables and a blackcurrant jus
Sous Vide peaches with pistachio and olive oil cake, peach sorbet and a peach
puree

John Attwell

Enjoyed our macaroon class with Ann who was very friendly and hospitable. She was also full of great tips which will hopefully help us recreate the macaroons successfully at home.

Think it helped that there were only 4 of us in the class which meant we got to be quite hands on and created an intimate atmosphere. Also meant we could make more (and eat more!) of the delicious macaroons.

The class lasted less than an hour and a half, rather than the 2 hours advertised as there were only 4 participants, but that was fine with us. At full price it wouldn't have been good value at all, but we were able to get pretty heavily discounted tickets and I think what we paid was fair for our experience. Would definitely recommend if you are able to do the same.

Nicole P.

Just got back from our Sushi and japanese class with Ann. Both my partner and myself have very much enjoyed it. From Ann herself, the food to even the fellow attendents its been very pleasant. Would definitely recommend to friends and family and would love to come back ourselves.

Paul B

A fantastic experience. Ann was brilliant, taking the time to talk us all through every step and making it feel so easy and straightforward. We will absolutely take another course with Ann and her team, and we will certainly be trying out what we learned today.

Brooke Evans

Ann was absolutely amazing. We had so much fun, the food was incredible, and we learnt so much! She is really professional and makes everyone feel welcome. Definitely booking again and recommending to everyone!