Kitchen Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register for a class?

Select an upcoming class from our current listing of kitchen classes and programs and scroll down to register.

What are the course fees for programs?

We strive to keep classes accessible and affordable for all customers. Most classes will have a fee to cover the cost of food and materials used in class. Class fees are due at time of registration.

Are there classes available for children?

Yes. In our program listing, you'll find the target age range for each class. When supervising a child attending a program, you may only bring registered children.

Age restrictions

The minimum age allowed in the kitchen is 6 years of age. No children under the age of 6 may enter the kitchen, including small children in arms or strollers. This restriction has been implemented to ensure customer safety and for liability and risk management reasons.

Do you accommodate food allergies?

We do our best to provide substitutions when notified in advance of a food allergy (at least 7 days before class). However, due to the specific nature of some recipes or food items, there are times when we are unable to provide accommodations for all allergies. We are not an allergen-free facility and cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment. Be advised that, in the case of severe nut or gluten allergies, we are not a nut-free nor gluten-free kitchen and cross contamination from other classes cannot be safely avoided. Please contact us for more information.

Will we be using knives?

All adult classes and classes for children 8 years and older use knives under the supervision of our professional chef instructors. These knives are used in a professional manner for food preparation only in order to teach class participants proper food preparation skills. We reserve the right to remove anyone we feel is a danger to themselves or others.

What should I wear or bring to my class?

For personal and food safety, participants must wear closed-toed shoes and tie back long hair. We reserve the right to deny participation to anyone who arrives without closed-toe shoes. The Teaching Kitchen provides all the ingredients, aprons, and tools for the class.

Will I be cooking?

In hands-on cooking classes, participants prepare food and enjoy their creations at the end of class. In demonstration classes, participants watch a cooking presentation and taste the food.

What is your cancellation or refund policy?

Program registration cancellations must be made at least 72 hours prior to the start of the class or program. To cancel your registration, follow the link in your confirmation email. For fee-based classes, a refund will be issued to the credit card used for registration after the program has concluded.

Due to class prep-time and food purchases, cancellations less than 72 hours prior to class start are non-refundable. You may transfer your registration to another person prior to the start of the class by contacting us with the class title and date, registrant name, and the name and email of the new registrant.

If you do not show up for a class or event your class registration is non-refundable.

Exploration Commons reserves the right to cancel any class that fails to attract sufficient registration or for other circumstances; all registrants will be notified and issued a full refund. In the event of an emergency closing, your registration will be transferred to the rescheduled class or a refund will be issued.

Can I bring my own food or alcohol?

No outside food or alcohol may be brought into the kitchen.

Can I reserve or rent the kitchen?

No. We are categorized as a high priority food service facility and have limited storage space, so we are not able to accommodate use of our kitchen to support catering services or operate as a food commissary or ghost kitchen.

Can I book a private or group cooking class?

We focus on educational programming for the community. We do not offer classes for birthday parties, baby showers, or personal and professional social events.

Can I teach a class in the Teaching Kitchen?

Guest presenters are an important part of our Teaching Kitchen community. We are always looking to offer classes from local chefs skilled in various techniques and cuisines. If you're interested in teaching a class, please complete our presenter form to have your proposal considered.

How can I suggest a class topic?

If you have an idea for a topic or class that you'd like to take, please complete our contact form.

How is the Teaching Kitchen handling COVID safety precautions?

We follow CDC, FDA and USDA food service guidelines related to COVID-19.

What equipment will I use during my class?

Visit our equipment page to see what is available in our Teaching Kitchen.