Discover Your Inner Chef at the Y

Our Culinary Arts programs introduce students of all ages to the magic of cooking through fun, hands-on experiences. From understanding flavors and following recipes to learning kitchen safety and nutrition, participants gain confidence and creativity in a warm, diverse environment.

Culinary Arts

Get your aprons ready, young chefs! In our culinary arts clinics, participants will:

Create delicious and nutritious dishes

Gain kitchen confidence through hands-on learning

Explore ingredients, recipes, and cultural traditions

Build skills they can show off to friends and family

Have fun while learning teamwork and responsibility

Mother and daughter show off their dessert creations made during culinary arts class at the YMCA

Cooking is an Artform

Like painting on a canvas or composing a song, cooking is a creative act. From selecting ingredients to experimenting with bold new recipes, our Culinary Arts programs inspire you to express yourself through cooking.

Course by Age Groups

Parent Child (Ages 3-6)

  • Tot Chef

School Age (5-18)

  • Culinary Arts
  • Y Bakers
  • Culinary Kids

Why Cook at the Y?

Build Life Skills

Cooking builds confidence, responsibility, and independence in the kitchen and beyond.

Cook With Friends

Work as a team, share meals, and celebrate food as a joyful, communal experience.

Fuel Creativity

Mix, measure, and experiment with flavors, discovering the art of cooking through hands-on learning.

Useful Information

Your class fee covers the tools and ingredients so kids can focus on learning, tasting, and having fun in the kitchen.

  • Please bring an apron or over-sized t-shirt for students to wear, however, we always recommend wearing clothes that you don't mind getting messy in. Gently used attire may be available.
  • Short sleeves are preferred or a shirt that easily rolls up and stays above the elbows.

Please remember:

  • Everyone is an artist.
  • Demonstrate caring by using only kind words.
  • Be respectful of others by keeping your hands to yourself.
  • Take responsibility for arriving to class on time, for listening first, and staying engaged throughout the class.
  • Be brave, be honest, keep practicing, try your best, and stick with it.
  • Have fun!

Explore Culinary Arts