Located in Detroit’s historic Indian Village, The Gathering is simple but elegant eatery (and part-time art gallery) that’s now running a series of cooking classes for budding chefs. Kids ages 9 and up, with parental supervision, can attend any class here – they’re typically twice a month – taught by executive chef Clinton Moore.
The core lesson focuses on knife safety, food storage and sanitation, while the specific topics change, says Moore. Classes are all demonstration-based, but there are opportunities for hands-on learning and participation.
You won’t necessarily learn recipes you’ve never heard of before, but you will learn easier and/or healthier ways to make familiar favorites, Moore says. For examples, kids see how to incorporate more vegetables into their diet through fun recipes like smoothies or veggie omelets.
“With a smoothie, you can get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables,” Moore says. “A nice one would be strawberries, bananas, pineapple juice and orange juice low in sugar, and then a little bit of spinach and ice.”
What’s coming up? Moore hopes to eventually offer kids-only cooking. If you’re interested, get in touch. “I’m up for the challenge!” he says.
Classes are offered by reservation to ensure high attendance and keep costs down. It’s best to call ahead, Moore says. “We like to book a minimum of six, but the room is big enough to accommodate about 12-15 comfortably.”
