The best cooking classes and schools in Beaufort County and beyond

Take your culinary skills to the next level through local demonstrations and hands-on classes.

Whether you’re a kitchen pro or just learning the difference between simmering and boiling, the Lowcountry offers endless opportunities to elevate your culinary skills. From Southern comfort dishes that would impress your grandma to international cuisine you can finally (almost) pronounce, local cooking schools provide fun, hands-on classes where you’ll pick up new techniques, recipes and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a roundup of some of the best cooking classes and schools in Beaufort County and beyond.

A taste of Italy 

Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana

37 New Orleans Road, Hilton Head Island

Step into Italy without needing your passport at Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana on Hilton Head. This local favorite offers two kinds of cooking classes: demonstration-style, where you can sip Prosecco while watching the chef do all the work (perfect for those who prefer eating over cooking), and hands-on classes where you’ll actually get to roll up your sleeves and cook like a true Italian. Past themes have included “Hooked on Crab” and “Tuscan Country Cooking,” and hands-on classes have revealed the secrets to perfect gnocchi, so you can finally impress your Nonna. For $75 to $120, you’ll enjoy an authentic Italian culinary experience, complete with wine pairings and recipes to recreate at home (or at least attempt). Check out the schedule at michael-anthonys.com.

Lowcountry flavors with a French twist

Charlie’s Coastal Bistro

8 New Orleans Road, Hilton Head Island

At Charlie’s Coastal Bistro, cooking classes kick off in the bar because, let’s be honest, everything starts better with a drink in hand. From there Chef Josh Castillo and Chef Joe guide you through a mix of hands-on and demonstration lessons that’ll have you cooking like a pro in no time (or at least feeling like one). Recent classes have featured Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits and indulgent butterscotch pudding, and after all that hard “work,” you’ll sit down to a leisurely lunch complete with expertly paired wines by sommelier Margaret Pearman. For $165 you’ll walk away with more than just a full belly — you’ll also get a sneak peek into how the pros master coastal and French cuisine. Check out charliesgreenstar.com for upcoming classes. 

Cook your way to wellness

H3 Healthy Kitchen

14 Valencia Road, Hilton Head Island

At Hilton Head Health’s H3 Healthy Kitchen, health-conscious cooking takes center stage — because who says nutritious can’t be delicious? Whether you’re rolling up your sleeves in a hands-on class or kicking back with a demonstration, you’ll learn to create meals so wholesome, even your veggies will feel proud. From mastering salmon three ways to whipping up a 15-minute meal that doesn’t involve a drive-thru, the focus is on using fresh, local ingredients to make healthy living more than just a New Year’s resolution. It’s not just cooking — it’s your ticket to a lifetime of feeling like a culinary superhero. Check out hhhealth.com for more details.

Culinary mastery in the Lowcountry

Culinary Institute of the South

1 Venture Drive, Bluffton

The Culinary Institute of the South offers hands-on cooking classes so immersive, you’ll forget you’re not starring in your own cooking show. Led by expert instructors in state-of-the-art kitchens, these classes run from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for $150. On Nov. 8 you can channel your inner “Cupcake Queen” with chef Jasmine Stroy-Perry and whip up her famous strawberry shortcake cupcakes (yes, you get to take home a dozen). Then on Nov. 16 pastry chef John Tanner will guide you through the art of pie-making — because nothing says “holiday pro” like nailing that pie crust. Bonus: there’s a pie tasting, and you leave with pies ready to bake at home. To get in on the action, check out tcl.edu.

Star of the Starland District 

Chef Darin’s Kitchen Table

2514 Abercorn St., Savannah

Just a short drive to Savannah’s trendy Starland District, Chef Darin’s Kitchen Table offers hands-on cooking classes that are as fun as they are educational — think less “boring lecture” and more “laugh while you learn.” With a focus on Southern and coastal cuisine, chef Darin Sehnert’s classes are ideal for anyone who wants to impress their friends or finally stop burning toast. Whether you’re tackling Southern comfort food or testing your skills with international dishes, the interactive classes make you feel like a pro (or at least look like one). And with the latest kitchen tech at each station, the only thing you’ll need to bring is your appetite. For more info, visit chefdarin.com.