Celebrate Father’s Day the French Way: Flavorful Food, Fun, and Lasting Memories

Father’s Day is coming up fast Sunday, June 15th! While jetting off to France might not be on the cards this year, you can still bring a little French countryside magic into your home kitchen. Or, better yet, gift Dad an unforgettable culinary experience at The Walnut Grove Cookery School, just an hour by train from Paris.

Whether you’re cooking alongside Dad or dreaming of a future escape, we’ve got you covered with a simple, classic recipe, fun French-themed games, and a warm invitation to join us in the heart of the French countryside.

Cook Together: Classic Poulet Rôti (French Roast Chicken)

Simple, flavorful, and utterly satisfying, Poulet Rôti is the perfect centerpiece for a memorable Father’s Day meal. Think golden, crispy skin, juicy tender meat, and fragrant herbs that bring every bite to life.

Inspired by Chef Eric’s farm-to-table philosophy, this recipe celebrates fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques giving you a delicious dish without the fuss. Serve it alongside roasted veggies or a fresh garden salad for a meal that’s rustic, elegant, and totally approachable.

What you’ll need:

• 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs)

• 3 tablespoons softened butter

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• Fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs

• 1 lemon, halved

• Salt and pepper

• Olive oil

Quick steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Pat the chicken dry, then season generously inside and out with salt and pepper.

3. Mix the garlic into the softened butter, then rub it all over the chicken.

4. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and fresh herbs.

5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for about 1 hour 15 minutes—until the skin is golden and the juices run clear.

6. Let the chicken rest before carving and serving.

Add Some Fun: French-Themed Father’s Day Games

Herb & Spice Smell Test 🌿👃

Bring the flavors of a French garden to your home. Blindfold Dad and have him smell and guess herbs like thyme, rosemary, lavender, and tarragon. It’s a simple sensory game that sparks curiosity and conversation about French cooking.

“Who’s the Chef?”, French Cooking Charades 🎭🍳

A lighthearted game where you act out or describe French cooking terms and dishes (like ratatouille, soufflé, or macaron) without speaking. A perfect way to get everyone laughing and learning a bit more about French cuisine.

Give the Gift of a French Culinary Escape

If you want to make Father’s Day truly special, consider gifting a cooking getaway at The Walnut Grove Cookery School. Just one hour by train from Paris, Chef Eric welcomes you to his peaceful countryside retreat surrounded by goats, bees, chickens, and a lush garden full of fresh fruits, veggies, and herbs.

Join group classes or design your own bespoke itinerary.

Learn to cook authentic French dishes from scratch, using fresh, homegrown ingredients, all while soaking up the calm beauty of rural France.

Ready to Celebrate?

Whether you’re making Poulet Rôti at home or planning a dream trip to France,

Father’s Day is about sharing great food, laughter, and moments that matter.