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.

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
Section. They generally list cooking classes.

Thank you for the suggestions.

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.