Welcome to our 18th Street Kitchen!
When you walk into our kitchen, you’ll be greeted by the scent of something special already in the works—our team prepping ingredients for the evening ahead. Local snacks await, along with welcoming staff and volunteers ready to guide you in. Feel free to browse our cookbook library and get inspired before we dive in.
Each class begins with a friendly introduction, then it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get hands-on in the kitchen. You’ll cook in small groups, side-by-side with fellow food lovers, using peak seasonal produce and sustainably sourced ingredients. Whether you're chopping or folding dumplings, our volunteer assistants are there to support you every step of the way.
Our instructors—chefs, bakers, and food educators from around the world—bring their unique traditions, personalities, and passions into the kitchen. Each class is filled with stories, laughter, and the joy of hands-on learning. The energy naturally shifts from instruction to creation, as everyone leans into cooking side by side—preparing a feast together.
At the end of the night, we gather to enjoy the meal we’ve made. These classes are more than just about building skills—they’re moments of connection, empowerment, and community.
No matter your skill level, your seat is always waiting at our table.
Our Class Offerings
From handmade pasta to chili crab, our classes span global flavors and essential techniques. Whether you're learning to butcher a whole fish, bake the perfect tart, or dive into fermentation, there's something for every cook.
- Fundamentals & Knife Skills
- Baking & Pastry
- Butchery
- Global Cuisines – Italy, India, Malaysia, Mexico, and more
- Seasonal Workshops – Think Dungeness crab or peak-season strawberries!
- Tasting Seminars & Pop-Up Dinners
- Corporate & Private Classes
Learn With Us
Our talented team of professional chefs and culinary instructors brings diverse expertise and teaching styles to our kitchen. Each instructor shares a passion for teaching and creating an inclusive learning environment for our guests. For information on policies, waitlists, cancellations, and more, please review our Registration Policies below.
Rooted in Our Mission
Every time you take a class at 18th Street Kitchen, you're supporting our nonprofit mission: empowering our community with the confidence and creativity needed to buy, cook, and eat good food every day. Your participation supports our free Community Programs – Food as Medicine, Nourishing Pregnancy, and Cooking Matters – which bring life-changing food education to thousands of families across the Bay Area.
Volunteer With Us
Our classes run on community—and that includes the incredible volunteers who make them possible. If you love food, believe in its power to connect and empower, and enjoy helping others learn, we’d love to have you on our team.