Greetings! I'd like to share that all of my classes are conducted through Zoom. My clients have been thrilled to welcome me into their kitchens via their laptops or tablets. With Zoom, I am able to closely observe your work and my two-camera setup allows for easy viewing of my hands and burners. Additionally, Zoom enables me to teach students beyond San Francisco, while adhering to Covid-safe practices.
My culinary experience spans over 30 years, including working as a chef at the Chez Panisse Cafe and teaching aspiring chefs at the California Culinary Academy for close to a decade. Over the past 10 years, I have enjoyed teaching a diverse range of non-professional students, from beginners to skilled home cooks.
Together, we will focus on your preferred techniques and cuisines to create delicious, from-scratch dishes. Whether you prefer quick meals that can be ready in under 20 minutes, or more complex dishes, classes will be tailored to suit your needs.
As a private teacher, it's incredibly fulfilling to witness the growth of clients who have never cooked before, and to help those who feel unsure around the kitchen. I strive to make learning enjoyable, and with my guidance, you will gain confidence in handling knives, flames, and large hot pans. Additionally, you'll learn valuable skills such as timing, meal planning, and flavor pairing.
Throughout my 30+ years of teaching, my specialties have included Italian, Mexican, Spanish, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisines, as well as California's diverse blend of these flavors. However, please note that I am not a baker or pastry chef. For those interested in baking, there are many talented chefs available. If you're eager to learn how to make cookies or brownies, let's get cooking!
Service location:
Remotely
Service Reviews
4.7
4 reviews
Service as described
4.4
Communication
4.9
Punctuality
4.9
JT
Jacob T.
At precisely 1 P.M., Shelly and her assistant arrived at my residence as previously arranged. Shelly was instructing me on the step-by-step process of cooking various dishes while expressing a fondness for answering any cooking-related questions. She exuded a delightful and empowering demeanor, making her an ideal cooking mentor. I highly endorse her services to anyone looking to learn basic cooking skills such as dicing onions.
March 12, 2023
JG
Jennifer G.
Our private cooking lesson was graced by Shelley's years of experience and captivating stories from various corners of the food world. She attentively listened to our fairly specific requirements and crafted a delectable and innovative menu. Shelley didn't hurry things and devoted the entire evening cooking alongside us.
August 21, 2022
RW
Ryan W.
Shelley provided us with exceptional cooking lessons that were both enjoyable and informative. She demonstrated an impressive level of expertise in the subject matter, while maintaining a pleasant and approachable demeanor. Additionally, she was highly organized and consistently responsive to our needs, ensuring that we were able to fully maximize our learning experience. We are so grateful for Shelley's instruction and highly recommend her services. Thank you, Shelley!
April 29, 2022
SR
Stephanie R.
Shelley was the ideal choice for our pasta and sauce making lesson due to her extensive expertise in Italian cuisine. We were thoroughly impressed with what she had to offer! She navigated us through the process of creating the perfect pasta dough, and demonstrated how to make both noodles and tortellini. Additionally, Shelley introduced us to a mouth-watering goat cheese-ricotta-chive filling for the tortellini, as well as two sauces that paired deliciously with the tortellini and fettuccine.
Working alongside Shelley was a delight. We received her quote, made contact, and had a brief phone conversation outlining our preferences. Later in the week, Shelley arrived at my apartment with all the necessary ingredients, pasta machine, and even a bottle of wine. Her four-hour lesson was worth every penny, and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend her for anyone eager to learn about Italian cuisine!
April 5, 2022
AR
Anthony R.
Our class was thoroughly enjoyable for both my husband and me! I strongly endorse Shelley and have recommended her to all of my acquaintances.
