Cooking is one of those things you could spend a lifetime learning about. From the timid novice to the experienced chef there is always room for education when it comes to the world of food. I’ve been teaching classes for years now, but lately I’ve taken a step back from the culinary world to focus on my DIY natural skin care business, Make It Good Apothecary.
I still get a lot of requests for cooking classes – particularly for sushi making classes. Though I am not currently offering private cooking classes I do know of some really great places here in Austin where you can learn about cooking. Between these eight places you should be able to learn just about anything!
Faraday’s Kitchen Store | Bee Caves (Shops Parkway)
I’ve taught many classes here over the years and am glad to recommend the venue. Faraday’s offers a gorgeous and comfortable space where students can enjoy both hands-on and demo-style classes.
Kitchen Underground | Multiple Locations in Austin
Possibly the coolest cooking school around, Kitchen Underground hooks you up with a wide variety of super-foodies including chefs, bloggers, and writers.
Central Market | Central Austin (North Lamar) & South Austin (Westgate)
Central Market offers a huge calender of classes regularly at both their central and south locations. Classes include standard techniques, seasonal favorites, ethnic foods, and most notably, classes led by famous chefs and writers on cookbook and culinary tours.
Make It Sweet | North Austin (Research Boulevard)
The very best place to pick up new baking, decorating, and pastry skills. Make It Sweet offers classes on everything from advanced cookie decorating to pate a choux. I’ve taken several classes here and have loved every one! Plus, they get bonus points from me for being super supportive of Austin Bakes over the years. Good people, sweet goodies, and awesome classes – what’s not to love?
Patricia’s Table | Central Austin (West 35th)
I haven’t taken a class here but the venue features classes with some of my favorite Austin food ladies so that’s reason enough to share it with you here. Patricia’s Table also offers classes for kids!
The Sustainable Food Center | East Austin (East 17th)
SFC now offers cooking classes in its beautiful new location on the East side. The classes here really have something for everyone, ranging from basic kitchen skills to niche topics like craft meats and holistic cooking. SFC classes also tend to be more affordable than other venues and you can feel great about supporting the amazing work they do here in Austin when you buy a ticket.
Thai Fresh | South Austin (Mary Street)
If you are curious about making homestyle Thai food then a class at Thai Fresh is not to be missed. Classes are led by Chef Jam and include plenty of practical advice, tips, and techniques for making favorites like Pad Thai and Sticky Rice in your own home kitchen. She even shares gardening secrets!
The Natural Epicurean | South Austin (South Lamar)
For those of you who are really serious about learning health-focused cooking The Natural Epicurean is an incredible resource. The academy trains chefs professionally but also offers a selection of public classes on topics like plant-based foods and ayurvedic cooking.
Where do you enjoy taking cooking classes in Austin? Leave your recommendation in the comments below!