Williams-Sonoma Grande Cuisine began in 1947, in Sonoma, Calif. by Chuck Williams. A trip to Paris made him realize that some things like omelet pans, and souffle dishes, could not readily be found in the United States. In 1963, Julia Child's cooking show brought greater interest to his shop. He had what she spoke about and people of the time wanted to cook.
The business began in cookware and has expanded over the years to include cooks' tools, cutlery, electrics, bakeware, food, glassware, barware, table top decor and furnishings. The store is located on the upper level of Westfarms Mall, by Nordstom.