Cooking Classes in So. California
 

I am trying to come up with a creative Valentine's gift for my girlfriend. She's interested in learning how to cook more. I bought her some cookbooks and a set of nice pans for Christmas. But now I'm thinking she might like to take a cooking class (maybe Italian or desserts - two favorites of hers). Nothing too fancy, since she's not that comfortable in the kitchen yet. Any suggestions on a class in Southern California?

This isn't as special as taking a class at one of the famous academies, but Sur la Table shops offer lots of fun-looking classes. They range from half-day seminars to multi-week classes, on all sorts of topics. The location I am familiar with is Newport Beach, but they have locations in Santa Monica and Pasadena. <BR><BR>www.surlatable.com

Kirk dear, how badly do you want her to remain your girlfriend? If this is important to you, may I suggest a somewhat more romantic and less self-interested "gift"? Why she's still seeing you after that Christmas gift, I can't imagine. Are you looking for a girlfriend or a resident cook?

Check the Wednesday L.A. Times Food<BR>Section. They generally list cooking classes.

Thank you for the suggestions.<BR><BR>As for the thought that I want to turn her into my own chef, that is far from the case. She was the one who requested a set of nice pans for Christmas. Plus I'm actually quite an accomplished cook and do most of the cooking - that is when I'm not treating her to a nice dinner out. I've helped her out in the kitchen, but she really wants to learn on her own and surprise me with some meals.<BR><BR>