Chef Paul Ritchie teaches French Macarons at AMIE Académie

AMIE Académie has become a cornerstone of our business and an integral path of connection within our community. In 2023, classes grew exponentially featuring industry-leading guest chefs, tastings, and special events. However, one chef has been a constant face at the Académie, Paul Ritchie.

Chef Paul Ritchie teaching Iconic Desserts at AMIE Académie

Chef Paul, a lifelong Cape Cod resident, joined our A Team three years ago and has been an integral part of the Académie's success. His passion for baking is evident in his own home that's outfitted with all the accoutrements of a bakery where he crafts cakes for friends and family.

His natural affinity with baking extends into sharing lessons learned in the classroom that has brought students back repeatedly. We have received many accolades about for Paul’s ability to make students feel welcome and at ease. His enthusiasm for the subject matter has encouraged students to return and try new things, broadening their horizons in culinary and baking, thereby executing AMIE Bakery's mission—that anyone can get in the kitchen and bake or cook.

Paul has taught hundreds of students over the last two years. His endless enthusiasm and practicality has resulted in some of our best-selling classes, namely his signature course Chicken Dinner Trifecta. Paul has also been our resident 'MacGyver,' making our facility hum and even gifted us a handmade cake station and recycling bin. Amie's name for Paul in her contact list is "Better Call Paul," and when in need, that's what the team does--we call Paul!

Students in Chicken Dinner Trifecta at AMIE Académie

Outside the bakery, Paul is a devoted friend to all our staff, vendors, customers, and friends of the bakery. Chef Paul will be retiring at the end of the summer season and will be dearly missed. Prior to his departure, he will continue to teach and host classes at AMIE Académie, and we wish him a fun and joyous victory lap during his final weeks in our kitchen. We hope to see returning students for a sweet farewell season, and we look forward to hosting Chef Paul as a guest instructor in the future. With great friends, it’s never goodbye, but always see you later.