Top Oakland Classes & Workshops

Skip the jarred sauce routine and learn how pasta night is actually supposed to taste. In this relaxed Bay Area cooking class with Chef Alexis, you’ll make fresh pasta from scratch using simple ingredients and techniques that are easier than they look. You’ll begin by mixing flour, eggs, salt and pepper into a smooth pasta dough, then learn how to knead, roll and shape it by hand. Chef Alexis guides you through each step, sharing useful techniques for working with dough, improving texture and cooking fresh pasta properly. Next, you’ll prepare a classic red sauce with tomatoes, garlic, onion and butter, creating a rich, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with your handmade noodles. The atmosphere stays social and low-pressure, making it easy to learn while enjoying good conversation and plenty of hands-on cooking. The reward is a plate of fresh pasta made entirely by you, plus a kitchen skill that feels far more impressive than saying, “I ordered takeout.”

It's not often that you can visit a winery in the heart of a city! Berkeley has been home to what we call 'urban wineries' for almost 20 years. Although these producers don't own any vineyards of their own, they work directly with grape growers from all around northern California. It is important to note that I am very selective about my choice of wines and wineries. With thousands of wineries in the state, many small, fine wine oriented producers are overlooked by large scale industrial operations. I like to champion true artisans and support small businesses!

Turn a viral dessert into a skill you can recreate anytime. In this interactive class booked through Classpop!, Chef Rajeswari walks you step by step through making Dubai-style chocolate bars from scratch. Start by tempering chocolate, learning how temperature control creates a smooth, glossy finish and clean snap. Then mix pistachio cream with crispy kataifi to build a filling that combines creamy and crunchy textures. Assemble and mold your bars with guidance from Chef Rajeswari, picking up practical tips on structure, flavor balance and presentation. Set in a lively Bay Area venue, this experience is perfect for anyone looking to try something creative and delicious. Leave with your handcrafted chocolate bars and the confidence to make them again at home.