Top California Food & Drink Classes

Take a tour to three backroads Sonoma wineries, and get more out of your trip to the Sonoma Valley than you would if you explored alone, on this small-group, half-day tour. Not only does your guide pick three impressive wineries to visit (tasting fees own expense), but they also set up a picnic lunch for your group to enjoy in a winery setting. Round-trip transport from your Sonoma hotel is also included, so you can focus on enjoyment and leave the driving to someone else.

At Meadowcroft Wines, learn about the art and science of winemaking by blending and bottling your very own bottle of wine. We’ll start with a stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens of Cornerstone Sonoma and an idyllic vineyard for a firsthand look at the vines. As we walk the rows, We’ll share why the iconic Sonoma Valley is the perfect No previous wine experience is necessary - perfect for all levels of wine experience and interest.

This experience blends hands-on mixology, local history, and iconic Bay Area views into one memorable San Francisco outing. Hosted inside a historic 1930s Art Deco distillery on Treasure Island, guests enjoy sweeping views of the Bay while learning the craft behind classic whiskey cocktails. During the class, guests shake and stir three iconic drinks — the Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, and Paper Plane, while discovering how different whiskeys shape flavor, balance, and aroma. One of the moments guests love most is tasting the first cocktail they’ve made themselves. Even those who say they “don’t usually drink whiskey” are often surprised by how approachable and delicious it can be. Getting here is easy, including a scenic six-minute ferry ride from the San Francisco Ferry Building. Gold Bar Whiskey is the Official Whiskey of the San Francisco 49ers.

Five courses of authentic Chinese cooking – this hands-on class in Los Angeles, hosted through Cozymeal, which connects you with top-rated local chefs, teaches you to fold wontons, work the wok and build the bold sauces that define great Chinese home cooking. Your hands-on cooking experience features: - Fried Wontons with ground pork, garlic, mushrooms, green onions and sesame soy sauce - Crispy Chinese Chicken with spicy orange sauce, dried chili, ginger and garlic - Stir-Fry Vegetables with bok choy, carrots, mushrooms and bell peppers - Steamed Rice - Ma Lai Gao with eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, evaporated milk and cake flour You will leave with a full Chinese cooking repertoire – from wonton folding to high-heat stir-frying. Guests are welcome to bring wine or beer to enjoy throughout the experience.

If you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your go-tos and uncover the secrets to French baking, this small-group macaron baking class in Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great choice. Not only will you learn how to make these French delights from scratch, but you will also get tips to make things easier as you go from a master chef featured on the Cooking Channel. This hands-on baking class is fun for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.

Indulge in a delightful chocolate-making with an optional wine or craft beer tasting at The Wine Experience on Cannery Row, Monterey. Under the guidance of Carrie Griffin, a seasoned wine curator turned chocolate enthusiast, learn to temper chocolate, craft truffle shells, and fill them with smooth ganache. This two-hour hands-on class ensures you leave with a beautiful box of your own decadent creations, perfect for sharing or indulging yourself. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a fun outing with friends, this experience is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Two-hour chocolate truffle-making class at Cannery Row Optional tastings of four Central Coast wines or craft beers Led by Carrie Griffin, a passionate host with years of wine expertise Group sizes up to 10, perfect for couples, friends, and private parties

We carry unique wines from around the world with varietals you may have never heard of and from regions that have never encountered such as Mexico, Uruguay, or South Africa. All our wines are expertly curated, sustainably grown, and crafted in small production methods that are not only natural, but provide the best quality and health benefits.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culinary traditions with a hands-on sushi class in San Jose, hosted through Cozymeal. Limited to a small group, this workshop with an esteemed sushi chef teaches you the essentials of seafood sushi-making. The menu you will prepare includes: - Starter: Spicy sesame edamame - Sushi rice preparation for rolling and shaping - California roll with real crab, cucumber and avocado - Spicy tuna roll with sriracha and fresh tuna - Nigiri with shrimp, tuna or eel (market availability) Learn knife techniques, rice preparation and plating while creating a complete sushi menu in an intimate, interactive setting.

Relax in your lounge for a seated tasting featuring a selection of your current release Booker wines. Rock out to your favorite album, place your music requests, and have some fun! Your wine educator will guide you through a flight of four wines with panoramic views of your estate vineyards.

Discover the art of sushi making in a lively class where creativity meets culinary skill. This hands-on experience teaches you traditional sushi techniques, including crafting maki rolls, battleship sushi, and hand-formed nigiri. Under the guidance of expert instructors, you’ll master sushi rolling, rice handling, and the assembly of delicious fillings. At the end of the session, savor the fruits of your labor with a healthy meal made entirely by you. Each participant takes home a special gift bag, featuring a bamboo sushi-rolling mat and other surprises to enhance your sushi-making journey.

Led by a local certified Tequila Specialist, this guided tasting offers a unique and educational experience. Guests will learn about San Diego's history and its connection to Tequila. They will sample three distinct, additive-free premium tequilas—a blanco, a reposado, and an añejo—each selected to showcase the rich diversity and craftsmanship of authentic tequila.

Transform your culinary skills in this hands-on pasta-making class at a trendy local bar, led by a talented local chef. You’ll mix, knead and roll fresh fettuccine from scratch while learning the secrets behind authentic Italian flavors. Then, whip up a bold marinara sauce with tomatoes, garlic, and a hint of Calabrian chile pepper to perfectly complement your handmade noodles. With craft beer flowing and good company all around, this flavorful experience blends technique, taste, and a fun night out you won’t forget.

It is important to note that I am very selective about my choice of wines. With over 500 wineries in the valley, many small, fine wine oriented producers are overlooked by large scale industrial operations. We will taste some of Napa’s most heralded wineries (likely ones you’ve never heard of), as well as international wines. I like to champion true artisans and support small businesses!

Experience a unique French-Californian cooking class in a stunning Southern California coastal home with Ann and Rick. This warm, food-loving couple brings a wealth of culinary knowledge from travels and training, blending classic French techniques with fresh Californian produce. Savor the joy of cooking and dining with locals who love to entertain in style, just minutes from the Ritz Carlton and Waldorf Astoria in Dana Point.

If regular pasta feels a little too predictable, this gnocchi-making class with Chef Ben is your delicious plot twist. Hosted at a stylish local venue in San Diego, this interactive experience turns potatoes into pillowy Italian comfort food with plenty of laughs along the way. Start by making simple gnocchi dough with potato, flour, egg and salt, then learn how to roll, cut and shape each piece by hand. Chef Ben will share tips for getting that light, tender texture instead of dense little potato bricks. While the gnocchi cooks, you’ll make a creamy vodka sauce with tomato paste, heavy cream, garlic and Parmesan. Expect a cozy, hands-on class, plenty of tasting and a final dish that might permanently ruin store-bought gnocchi for you.

This immersive sushi experience celebrates where tradition meets innovation. Guided by your host, you’ll dive into the fundamentals of authentic sushi-making while exploring the fresh, vibrant ingredients that define California cuisine. Together, you’ll craft beloved West Coast–style rolls that respect Japanese roots while embracing California’s adventurous palate.

This beginner-friendly sushi class at a local brewery offers a unique blend of hands-on learning and laid-back fun. You'll kick things off by prepping perfectly seasoned sushi rice, then dive into rolling a classic California roll with crab, avocado, cucumber, rice, and scallions. After mastering your roll, you’ll switch things up with a refreshing cucumber and ginger Oriental salad dressed in tangy ponzu — the perfect light and zesty side. Guided by a professional chef, you'll learn sushi-making techniques in a relaxed setting surrounded by the casual buzz of a brewery. Expect plenty of laughs, opportunities to get creative with your plating, and the chance to sip a local craft brew while you work. Whether you're flying solo, coming with friends, or planning a date night, this class delivers a memorable experience full of flavor, connection, and culinary inspiration.

A social gathering awaits at this hands-on cooking class in San Diego, where participants collaborate with professional chefs to whip up authentic Italian-inspired dishes from scratch. Over three to three and a half hours, enjoy welcome appetizers, create two main dishes tailored to your group’s preferences, and savor a delightful signature dessert. With the added touch of a welcome drink in hand, the experience culminates in communal dining, allowing everyone to relish the culinary creations they helped craft together.

Experience a wine flight that blends our Spanish heritage with Napa Valley style. This tasting showcases five small-production, current-release blends, featuring unique Spanish grape varieties cultivated in the heart of Los Carneros.

Immerse yourself in the artistry of Italian cuisine in San Francisco, hosted through Cozymeal. Limited to a small group, this hands-on class with a five-star pasta chef blends refined flavors, traditional recipes and modern presentation. The menu you will prepare includes: - Antipasti with marinated vegetables, cured meats and cheeses - Handmade pasta with slow-simmered beef sauce - Chicken piccata with lemon, pancetta and greens - Grilled peaches with honey and mascarpone cream Learn kneading, rolling, sauce-making and plating techniques while enjoying authentic Italian dishes in an intimate, relaxed setting.

Formosa Cafe offers a truly unique experience that transports you back in time to the glamorous era of Hollywood's past. The carefully crafted cocktails at Formosa Cafe are more than just libations; they are a sip of history. As you savor each drink, you'll be surrounded by the essence of Hollywood's golden age, creating a unique and nostalgic atmosphere. The bar not only serves classic Hollywood cocktails but also offers diverse merchandise, allowing you to take a piece of this historic experience home with you. The adventure continues with a culinary journey that introduces you to a delightful fusion of flavors from Chinese cuisine. With every bite, you become fully immersed in the captivating narrative of Hollywood's past, making the dining experience at Formosa Cafe a true celebration of history and culture.

Visit the home of a Palm Springs local to enjoy culture and cuisine during a private Southwestern cooking class. Over a welcome drink, peruse and discuss your host's thoughtfully prepared menu and recipes. During the hands-on cooking class, learn how to prepare a 3-course meal of Southwestern dishes. Discover the culinary tips, tricks, and techniques your host has acquired over the years, before tucking into your tasty creations.

Santa Barbara is known for its artisan food scene, including its bean-to-bar chocolate offerings—but while anyone can visit the city and pick up a sweet treat, it takes insider knowledge to craft authentic chocolates. On this 1.5-hour workshop, fill a box with your own handmade vegan, gluten-free goodies. Then, put your art skills to the test as you decorate from dozens of toppings, from candied ginger to pretzel sticks.