Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorie Fangio.
Hi Lorie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began teaching cooking classes and writing about food more than 20 years ago, driven by a deep love of French food, wine, and the way meals bring people together.
In those early years, I traveled to France as often as I could, soaking in everything — the markets, the cafés, the vineyards, the traditions around the table. Each trip became part of the foundation for the classes I taught back home, allowing me to share not only recipes, but a sense of place and lifestyle inspired by France.
Over time, my students became just as passionate about the experience as I was.
One day, a traveler in one of my classes asked, “When are you going to take us with you to France?” That simple question planted the seed for what would become the next chapter of my life and business. Nine months later, I took my very first group on a food and wine-inspired journey to Paris.
That was more than 12 years ago, and what began as one small group has grown into curated culinary experiences throughout France.
Today, I lead travelers through some of the country’s most beautiful regions, creating immersive trips centered around exceptional food, meaningful connections, wine, culture, and the joy of gathering around the table.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It certainly hasn’t been a perfectly smooth road, though I wouldn’t describe it as rocky either. When I first started, I didn’t know what I didn’t know — and that was a lot.
That first trip was absolutely a success, but when I compare it to the experiences I create today, there’s barely any resemblance.
Over the years, I’ve learned so much about hospitality, leadership, and what it truly means to guide people through an experience that feels both seamless and meaningful.
I also had a great deal to learn about people — how to bring a group of strangers together, how to create connection, and how to make everyone feel cared for while traveling far from home.
In many ways, the journey has been just as much an exploration of myself as it has been of the world I work in. Every trip, every challenge, and every season of growth have shaped not only the business but who I am as a person and as a leader.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
What truly sets A Taste of Paris (TM) apart is my desire to create experiences that feel extraordinary and highly curated,
I personally accompany every group to France; I am hands-on all the way. These trips are not something I hand off or oversee from a distance; they are very personal, and I want every guest to feel genuinely cared for throughout the experience.
I’m always searching for the hard to get off the beaten path experiences that make travelers feel as though they’re seeing France in a way few people ever do. Whether that’s a private meal in a hidden setting, time with passionate artisans and winemakers, or simply those unforgettable moments that can’t be replicated from a guidebook.
What I’m most proud of is the joy these experiences create for my guests. For me, that’s where the real reward is. Watching people fall in love with a place, seeing friendships form around the table, and seeing someone experience a beautiful meal or stunning vineyard for the very first time never gets old. Creating meaningful memories for others is one of the greatest joys of my work.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I think small group trips, especially around food and wine, will continue to grow. People love this. People are busy; they want the experience but can’t find the time to plan it themselves. It is the ideal opportunity.
Pricing:
- Request a link to the digital brochure for pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.atasteofparis.net
- Instagram: @atasteofparis
- Facebook: Atasteofparistrips
