Looking for the ultimate French culinary experience--without having to travel the globe? French chefs from around the world--part of an organization called Village de Chefs--will convene next week to work with Manatee Technical Institute culinary students. Village de Chefs is a non-profit association that regroups 33 French-trained culinary and pastry chefs around the world.

In May 2013, Chef Jose Martinez of Longboat Key's Maison Blanche took over the presidency of the association. He settled in Sarasota in 2002. Prior to that, he was co-owner of the Michelin-starred Restaurant Maison Blanche pn Avenue Montaigne in Paris. Since coming to Florida, he has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation and Zagat.

Here's a rundown of events and information about how you can get in on the worldly tasting and support culinary students on the Suncoast:

October 9

Rendezvous with “Village de Chefs”

A unique, prestigious and convivial event with chefs from around the globe.

Twenty French chefs and pastry chefs from around the globe will converge in Sarasota-Bradenton for two days of sharing with culinary professionals and students, the community and the press. After stints in Europe and Paris, the annual event “Village de Chefs” is coming to the Suncoast to inspire future culinary professionals while giving food lovers in the area the opportunity to experience the best of French cuisine with global influences. This is the first time the French association will host these prestigious events in the United States. The “Villagers,” as they call themselves, look forward to a convivial exchange with culinary professionals and the community in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Rendezvous with Village de Chefs Event “à la carte”

Wednesday morning, October 9 (10:00 a.m. to 1 p.m.) – MTI Main Campus

The public is invited to discover and enjoy Vietnamese spices, Caribbean cuisine, Belgian chocolates, Australian and Asian savors. This chef-led culinary demonstration and tasting adventure will be held at the Manatee Technical Institute Main Campus located at 6305 State Road 70 East, Bradenton, FL, 34203.

The cost of the event is $25 per person; reservations can be made by calling the MTI Culinary Arts Department at 941.751.7900, ext. 1086.

Village de Chefs Food & Wine Fest

Wednesday evening, October 9 (5:30 to 8:30 p.m.) – Powel Crosley Estate

Guests will experience a wonderful opportunity to sample 15 food and wine pairings while enjoying the revival style ambience of the Powel Crosley Estate. French and American wines will accompany original artistic dishes prepared by the Villagers and assisted by MTI’s culinary arts students. The global offerings include bouillabaisse with a Caribbean flavor (Roman Valicon, Dominican Republic); waterzooi of chicken breast (Fabian Hermans, Belgium); kangaroo tartars (Boris Cuzon, Australia); jambalaya shrimp (Andre Touboul, Texas); orange chocolate truffles (Marc Claerbout, Belgium); or coupe marquise (Eric Bedoucha, New York). Tickets are $65 per person; a limited number of VIP tickets are available at $120 per person. VIP tickets include special refreshments, seating and table service. Tickets are available at http://villagedechefs.bpt.me.

Click here to read Judi's Sarasota food news in our October issue. >>