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Top Cooking Schools & Programs for Kids in NYC

1. Allergic to Salad – Multiple Locations

Age range: 4 and older
There are only two rules at Allergic to Salad: You must try everything, and you don’t have to like it. Kids dive into exciting recipes—from kale chips to chilled carrot cumin soup—in classes that include vegan, nut-free, and soy-free options. Allergic to Salad focuses on developing kitchen skills and international cuisine while using local, seasonal, and organic ingredients whenever possible.
Need to know info: Weekend classes and birthday parties—you provide the location—are available for kids ages 2 and older.

2. Allora – Park Slope, Brooklyn

Age range: 4 and older
If your kid’s curiosity stretches from spaghetti to sculpture, Allora in Park Slope offers a deep dive into Italian culture through food, art, and hands-on fun. Designed by Italian child psychologist Stefania Clementi and a team of educators, Allora’s cooking classes, after-school programs, and camps bring kids face-to-flour with fresh pasta dough, vibrant paints, and clay creations—all in a nurturing, small-group setting. Weekend events add a multicultural twist, inviting families to share ideas and build community through creative exploration.
Need to know info: Whether you're celebrating a birthday, looking for a unique gift (hello, Allora gift cards!), or just hoping to expand your child’s palate and imagination, this charming spot promises a slice of Italy right in the heart of Brooklyn.

3. The Art Farm in the City – Upper East Side

Age range: 2-8 years old
This fun, farm-focused center on the Upper East Side offers a host of classes for kids, from science to animal care. But its Farm Foodies sessions—offered after school and on Saturday mornings—are of particular interest to junior chefs, given their emphasis on fresh, organic goodies, and in-season preparations. It also has a party-version of the Farm Foodies shindig, complete with invites, pizza, party favors, and "farm time."
Need to know info: The summer schedule differs from the school-year schedule. Plan ahead!

4. Atelier Sucre – East Village

Age range: 14-17 years old
Teens with a sweet tooth and a creative streak love diving into the world of French pastry at Atelier Sucré. Led by Master Pastry Chef Simon Herfray, these hands-on classes are designed to spark culinary curiosity while building real baking skills. Whether it’s shaping buttery croissants, piping cream puffs, or mastering cake decorating techniques, each session is a chance for young chefs to explore the artistry behind classic desserts. Teens leave not only with delicious treats, but also with confidence, creativity, and a taste of authentic French pastry craft.
Need to know info: Classes are small and welcoming, with expert instruction, all tools provided, and a fun group atmosphere—perfect for birthday celebrations, weekend outings, or just trying something new.

5. Casa Lu – Various Locations

Age range: 5-9 years old
Casa Lu invites kids to roll up their sleeves and dive into a joyful blend of art, cooking, and Spanish immersion, all in a warm and welcoming community space. Founded by artist and educator Luciana Gambarino, Casa Lu’s after-school and camp programs inspire creativity through hands-on projects, like screen printing, sewing, and upcycled art—plus global cooking adventures that range from dumplings and sushi to homemade pies and vegan treats. A little doodle time kicks off each session before the real magic begins. Some classes are English-only, while others offer immersive Spanish language fun. Whether you're in it for the empanadas, the fiber arts, or the community spirit, Casa Lu makes creativity the main ingredient.
Need to know info: Casa Lu also hosts imaginative birthday parties (ages 5+) where every guest leaves with a handmade masterpiece.

6. campusNYC – Brooklyn Heights

Age range: 12-17 years old
At campusNYC, teens dive into the ultimate summer cooking experience—where professional chefs, state-of-the-art kitchens, and the vibrant food culture of New York City come together for one unforgettable program. Whether you’re into pastry perfection or crave savory sensations, students choose their own culinary focus and get hands-on every day, crafting everything from fruit tarts and handmade macarons to pad Thai and barbecue ribs—all from scratch. The program goes beyond the kitchen too: Students explore iconic NYC neighborhoods, sample global flavors from the source, and connect with like-minded peers who love food as much as they do. With day and sleepaway options in Brooklyn Heights and access to top-tier amenities at St. George Towers, campusNYC is more than a cooking camp—it’s a place to find your passion, master new skills, and make lifelong memories (and friends).
Need to know info: No experience necessary—just bring your appetite for learning and adventure.

7. Cooking with YeYe – Various Locations + Virtual

Age range: 5–14 years old
At Cooking with YeYe, kids step into a hands-on culinary journey that brings the rich traditions of Chinese home cooking to life. Whether it’s a birthday party dumpling workshop, a wonton-folding class with friends, or a community event, YeYe’s classes are joyful, interactive, and deeply rooted in cultural storytelling. Born and raised in Suzhou and now based in NYC, YeYe shares authentic recipes passed down through generations—teaching kids how to roll bao buns, hand-pull noodles, and stir-fry with fresh, healthy ingredients.
Need to know info: Classes are available in both virtual and in-person formats and can be customized with meat, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Private events are available for birthdays, family gatherings, or partner organizations looking for a flavorful, hands-on experience.

RELATED: Unique Culinary Experiences for Kids in NYC

Eataly's cooking classes get kids and parents in the kitchen together. Photo courtesy of Eataly

8. Eataly – Multiple Locations

Age range: 4 years and older
Roll up your sleeves and get ready to mangia! At Eataly’s Family Fun: Pasta Making Class, kids and grown-ups pair up to knead, roll, and shape handmade pasta from scratch—all while learning about the traditions and regional flavors of Italian cuisine. Under the guidance of Eataly’s expert Scuola Chefs, families create their own semolina dough and hand-form pasta shapes like cavatelli before tasting a freshly prepared version served with a classic tomato sauce. The experience is both educational and delicious, offering a cozy entry point into cooking and culture for bambini. Every pair takes home their handmade pasta to cook later, along with a deeper appreciation for Italian culinary arts.
Need to know info: Classes are offered year-round and fill up fast—just don’t forget to bring your appetite (and your camera).

9. Green Apron Kitchen – Bensonhurst, Brooklyn

Age range: 5 years and older; varies by workshop
At Green Apron Kitchen, kids don’t just cook—they explore the world one delicious dish at a time. This hands-on culinary space blends scratch cooking with cultural exploration, offering after-school programs, camps, and birthday parties that double as flavorful adventures. Young chefs make their own snacks, get homework help, and dive into daily kitchen themes like “Make It Monday” and “Foreign Language Friday,” all led by trained chefs and certified educators. GAK also hosts family and mommy-and-me classes, adult BYOB nights, and fully customizable parties for all ages. Whether it’s empanadas on a Wednesday or a birthday cake on Saturday, Green Apron makes food the foundation for fun, learning, and connection.
Need to know info: The program is equal parts cooking class and STEAM lab, with gardening, food science, and even language learning mixed into the recipe.

10. Home Cooking New York – Soho

Age range: 11 years and older
A more sophisticated take on kids’ culinary instruction, this Soho-based school offers single-day workshops and week-long camps. Teens 13 and up may opt for the adult workshops, but only if they’re signing up with an adult. From fresh pasta to dim sum and regional cuisines, tweens and teens can score some pretty fancy cooking skills.
Need to know info: Home Cooking New York also offers in-home cooking parties, including groceries, and chef supervision, for all ages.

11. Institute of Culinary Education – Tribeca

Age range: 8 years and older; varies by class
Talk about fancy! The Institute of Culinary Education offers foodie fun for families, including classes for kids and parents on a range of topics, from cupcakes to steaks, knife skills, and even kitchen science.
Need to know info: All classes cook a full menu and enjoy a family-style meal at the end.

12. Kids at Work – Flatiron

Age range: 2-5 years
Little chefs get their first taste of culinary independence in this thoughtfully designed, hands-on cooking class. Each session invites preschoolers to chop, mix, measure, and explore with age-appropriate kitchen tools like whisks, spatulas, and even blenders—all under the guidance of instructors trained in early childhood education and food safety. Kids alternate between savory and sweet recipes, making everything from scratch, and always get to taste their own unique creations (no pre-made dishes here!) With a focus on process over perfection, these classes let children explore textures, smells, and flavors while building confidence, coordination, and curiosity.
Need to know info: Allergies or dietary restrictions? Just give the team a heads-up—most needs can be accommodated, and the space is completely nut- and seed-free.

13. League of Kitchens – Multiple Locations

Age range: 11 years and older
This innovative company teams up with local immigrants who want to share their home country's culinary traditions with city dwellers. Rather than entering a stark, industrial kitchen, you're invited into the home of a local and given a hands-on class.
Need to know info: While the classes are geared toward adults, serious kid chefs are welcome to register.

14. Mukti's Kitchen – Kensington, Brooklyn

Age range: 5–14 years old
At Mukti’s Kitchen in Brooklyn, kids and families are invited into a warm, welcoming home kitchen to explore the vibrant flavors and traditions of Indian cuisine. Led by chef and educator Mukti Banerjee, these hands-on classes introduce young chefs to authentic techniques, like spice blending, rolling parathas, and cooking fragrant dals. Whether it’s a family-friendly summer cooking camp, a school break session, or a private parent-and-child workshop, Mukti brings deep cultural knowledge, heart, and humor to every class. With a focus on healthy ingredients, vegetarian options, and joyful exploration, Mukti’s Kitchen is more than a cooking class—it’s a flavorful journey into Indian culture and connection.
Need to know info: Mukti’s seasonal camps (offered in summer, spring, and fall) welcome small groups into her home kitchen for an immersive, hands-on experience. Classes can also be customized for private gatherings with friends and family.

15. My Cooking Party – Chelsea

Age range: 4-17 years old
At My Cooking Party in Chelsea, kids and teens step into a real culinary playground where creativity, skill-building, and celebration come together. Whether it's a pizza-and-cookie party for little chefs (ages 4-6), a hands-on spaghetti and chocolate cake experience for tweens (ages 7-12), or a full-on cooking competition for teens (ages 13-17), every event is thoughtfully designed for fun, learning, and flavor. From birthday parties to summer camps, kids get to chop, sauté, bake, and plate like the pros—with personalized menus, chef hats, mocktails, and a shared sit-down meal to top it off. No matter the age or occasion, My Cooking Party creates a deliciously memorable experience for budding chefs.
Need to know info: The Children’s Culinary Academy summer camp dives deeper with a two-week program that teaches real cooking techniques—from knife skills and sautéing to roasting and baking—designed to turn young foodies into confident cooks.

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NY Cake Academy offers small class sizes where kids can learn pro-level baking techniques. Photo by Jody Merceir

16. NY Cake Academy – Chelsea

Age range: 6 years and older
At NY Cake Academy in Chelsea, kids can take their baking game to the next level with immersive, hands-on classes that blend creativity and confectionery. Each themed session focuses on a new set of techniques—from piping and glazing to sculpting with fondant—giving aspiring pastry chefs the tools to express themselves through edible art. With expert instructors, a welcoming studio kitchen, and plenty of opportunity for personal flair, these classes are perfect for teens who love baking, decorating, or simply want to learn something new and delicious.
Need to know info: No experience necessary—just bring your imagination (and maybe an apron). Note that open-toed shoes are not allowed.

17. Sur la table – Multiple Locations

Age range: 7-17 years old
Sur La Table’s Kids and Teens Summer Series invites young chefs to roll up their sleeves and dive into a five-day culinary adventure in a real working kitchen. Each themed week—like Bakeshop, Global Flavors, and Sweet & Savory—offers hands-on experience with mixing, measuring, and mastering new techniques, all guided by professional chefs who double as passionate teachers.
Need to know info: Class sizes are kept intentionally small.

Taste Buds Kitchen operates out of a professional kitchen that's the perfect size for kids. Photo courtesy Taste Buds Kitchen

18. Taste Buds Kitchen – Chelsea

Age range: 2-17 years old
At Taste Buds Kitchen, young chefs can dive into the delicious world of cooking with hands-on classes and camps designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and expand culinary skills. Whether you're whipping up rainbow cupcakes in a Caregiver-and-Me class, competing in a cupcake battle during a Family Cooking Night, or joining fellow teens for a Kids Night Out, every session blends fresh ingredients with flavorful fun. Older kids and teens can level up in our Junior Chefs and Let’s Make Dinner series, or spend school breaks perfecting recipes in the popular three-hour cooking camps. From pasta to pastries, Taste Buds Kitchen offers the ultimate mix of education and enjoyment—no experience needed, just an appetite for adventure!
Need to know info: All classes are nut-free, allergy-aware, and led by friendly chef instructors who make learning new techniques fun and approachable.

19. Tiny Turnips – Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Age range: 3 years and older
The founders of Tiny Turnips believe that when a child is involved in the cooking process, they're more likely to eat what they've made. The company comes to your home and personalizes a cooking class for your picky eaters, aspiring chefs, and creative bakers.
Need to know info: Classes can include private lessons, play dates, and birthday parties.

20. Young Chef’s Academy – Forest Hills, Queens

Age range: 4-18 years old
Focusing on age-by-age and stage-by-stage culinary coaching, this Queens-based school centers each month’s classes on a particular theme, while building on kitchen skills as you go. Party planning? YCA’s in-house space is perfect for a short shindig, complete with pizza, the treats kids make (including options like calzones, pasta, or teas and scones), chef hats, and goodies to go.
Need to know info: Membership options are offered and include reserved seats in regular classes plus discounted registration fees.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kids' Cooking Classes

What is the ideal age to start cooking classes?

The ideal age to start cooking classes depends on your child's developmental stage, interest, and the format of the class—but here’s a general guide:

• Ages 2-3 (with a grown-up): At this age, it's all about sensory exploration and simple tasks. Kids can wash fruits and veggies, stir with assistance, and tear lettuce.
• Ages 4-5: Kids this age can follow simple directions, measure ingredients with help, and crack eggs (messily—but enthusiastically).
• Ages 6-8: This is a great age to begin structured cooking classes. Kids can read simple recipes, use basic tools (like peelers, butter knives, whisks), and learn kitchen safety basics. They can start cooking small meals with assistance and feel real pride in contributing.

What should my child wear to a cooking class?

For a kid's cooking class, the goal is comfort, safety, and easy cleanup. Cooking can get messy! Choose clothes that you don’t mind getting flour, sauce, or food dye on. Loose, dangly sleeves can dip into batter or catch on tools. Opt for short sleeves or sleeves that can be rolled up easily. Wear pants or leggings. These offer protection from spills and minor kitchen bumps better than shorts or skirts.

Are ingredients and equipment provided?:

Yes—in most kids’ cooking classes, all ingredients and equipment are provided! That includes everything from mixing bowls and measuring cups to kid-safe knives and aprons (if available), plus the food they'll prep and cook.

Can my child with allergies participate?:

Most kids’ cooking classes can accommodate allergies with advance notice. Whether your child has a food allergy (like dairy, nuts, or eggs) or a sensitivity (like gluten), instructors are often prepared to modify recipes, swap ingredients, or create safe alternatives. Contact the instructor ahead of time.

Originally published in 2019. Jody Mercier contributed additional reporting.