Private cooking classes on 30A are a fun way to elevate your beach vacation. Whether you're staying in a rental or visiting a chef's studio, these hands-on experiences let you create multi-course meals while learning practical skills. From Gulf seafood to Southern-inspired dishes, each class is tailored to your group’s preferences. Plus, the chefs handle all the prep and cleanup, making it a stress-free evening.
Here’s a quick overview of the top options:
- Chef Jojo 30A: In-home classes starting at $175 per person (including food fees). Known for sushi, gnocchi, and fusion dishes. Great for couples, families, and bachelorette groups.
- Swiftly Catered: Four-course meals with wine and cocktails. Flexible for groups of 2–13. Specialties include crab cakes and filet mignon.
- Roux 30A: Grayton Beach-based classes ($125–$150 per person) focusing on pasta, international cuisines, and Gulf-to-table menus.
Each option offers a unique way to enjoy 30A’s culinary scene. Whether you want a private chef experience at your rental or a restaurant-style class, these experiences combine learning and delicious dining.
Comparison of Top 3 Private Cooking Classes on 30A
1. Chef Jojo 30A Cooking Classes
Imagine turning your beach house kitchen into a culinary classroom with Chef Jojo, who brings over 22 years of expertise to the table. Trained at Le Cordon Bleu and with experience in renowned 30A hotspots like Pescado and The Surfing Deer, Chef Jojo offers hands-on cooking classes where you’ll prepare a three-course meal under her guidance. She takes care of all the shopping, prep, and cleanup, so you can focus on the fun of cooking and savoring your creations. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about pricing, class details, and what makes this experience so special.
Starting Price
The cost starts at $140 per person, plus a $35 food fee (taxes and gratuity not included). For groups of six or more opting for plated service, there’s an additional $150 server fee. This price covers everything: ingredients, Chef Jojo's expert instruction, the meal you help create, and the cleanup. It’s an effortless way to plan a night that combines dinner and entertainment in one unforgettable package.
Group Size Suitability
Chef Jojo’s classes are perfect for couples, small groups, extended families, and even bachelorette parties. She particularly enjoys working with large families and bachelorette groups, making these events lively and memorable. Smaller groups of two to four benefit from more personalized instruction, while larger gatherings can divide into teams to tackle different courses, transforming the class into an interactive, social dining experience.
Signature Dishes/Menus
Chef Jojo’s menus are as versatile as her teaching style. Popular themes include sushi, gnocchi, and a "Top 3" signature dishes session, which blends Mediterranean-Caribbean flavors, Gulf seafood, and lighter Southern favorites. Menus can be tailored to suit seafood enthusiasts, vegetarians, or those who prefer organic options, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Unique Perks
What sets Chef Jojo’s classes apart is the setting - your rental kitchen. The evening unfolds from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with Chef Jojo arriving at 3:00 p.m. for prep and kicking off service at 7:30 p.m. It’s like having a private restaurant experience without stepping out of your beach house. Plus, you’ll leave with new cooking skills and recipes you can recreate long after your 30A getaway.
2. Swiftly Catered Private Cooking Classes
Picture this: a cozy, in-home cooking adventure brought right to your vacation rental in Santa Rosa Beach. That’s exactly what Swiftly Catered offers with their private cooking classes. These sessions strike the perfect balance between hands-on learning and a laid-back social vibe. You’ll work alongside a professional chef to create a curated four-course meal, featuring dishes like crab cakes and filet mignon. And while the food is the star, the experience is elevated with cocktails and charcuterie served between courses. Plus, you’ll pick up handy tips - like how to shape crab cakes that stay intact or how to whip up mashed potatoes worthy of a top-tier restaurant.
Group Size Suitability
Whether you're planning a romantic evening for two, a small gathering with friends, or even a bachelorette party, Swiftly Catered’s format works beautifully. While they’ve hosted larger sessions with up to 13 people at their Santa Rosa Beach facility, their private in-home classes are more intimate, typically accommodating groups of 8–10. This makes it an excellent option for a relaxed night in, especially if you’re looking for a fun, weather-proof activity without leaving your rental.
Signature Dishes and Menus
The four-course menus are thoughtfully designed, featuring standout dishes like perfectly seasoned crab cakes and filet mignon with customizable spice blends. You’ll receive the menu in advance, so you know exactly what to expect. Past classes have included invaluable technique tips and sides like creamy, chef-style mashed potatoes. Swiftly Catered is also known for their flexibility, offering menu adjustments to accommodate dietary needs, such as naturally gluten-free options.
Unique Perks
These classes are more than just cooking - they’re an experience. One of the standout features is the natural flow of the evening, with breaks between courses to enjoy wine pairings and savor the dishes you’ve prepared. It’s a seamless mix of culinary learning and relaxation. And because these classes are often more available during the slower seasons, it’s worth checking their schedule ahead of time, especially if you’re planning to visit during the busier tourist months.
3. Roux 30A Hands-On Cooking Classes
Roux 30A, nestled in the heart of Grayton Beach, offers a chef-led cooking experience that's equal parts refined and engaging. Guided by Chef Nikhil Abuvala, you'll step into a professional, open kitchen to prepare a multi-course meal using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With its Gulf-to-table focus, this immersive session not only teaches you culinary techniques but also celebrates the joy of sharing a meal. The experience wraps up with a communal dining moment, where you savor the dishes you’ve created together.
Starting Price
Prices range from $125 to $150 per person. This includes everything - ingredients, expert instruction, wine pairings, and recipe cards. Be sure to check Roux's events page for the latest rates.
Group Size Suitability
Designed for intimate groups of 4–8 people, Roux’s classes ensure plenty of personalized attention. It’s an ideal choice for a cooking date, a family activity, or celebrating a special occasion.
Signature Dishes and Menus
Roux 30A offers a variety of hands-on culinary adventures. A favorite is their handmade pasta workshop, where you’ll learn to craft dough from scratch and shape it into ravioli, pappardelle, and more, complete with authentic sauces. Their "Around the World" series, held monthly, showcases international menus - think Italian bistro favorites, classic French techniques, or vibrant Thai street food. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Gulf-to-Table experience, featuring local catches like snapper, grouper, or Gulf shrimp paired with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Unique Perks
Enjoy a restaurant-quality cooking and dining experience in a chic Grayton Beach setting, complete with expertly selected wine pairings. And the best part? You won’t have to worry about the cleanup.
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Comparison Table
Here’s a quick breakdown of the cooking class options to help you decide:
| Provider | Starting Price | Group Size | Signature Dishes | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chef Jojo 30A | $175 per person ($140 + $35 food cost) plus taxes & gratuity | Couples and small groups | Sushi, gnocchi, and her "Top 3" dishes with Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Asian fusion influences | In-home service with early chef prep; customizable menus with optional cocktail or wine pairings |
| Swiftly Catered | Custom pricing – quote required | Flexible, up to 13 guests | 4-course menu featuring crab cakes, apple & kale salad, filet mignon, mashed potatoes, and green beans | Wine and cocktail pairings; available in-home or at a facility; dietary accommodations available |
| Roux 30A | Custom pricing – quote required | Ideal for intimate groups | Rotating international cuisines inspired by the "Around the World" dinner series | Chef's table experience; private tastings; themed culinary events in Grayton Beach |
Chef Jojo 30A is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a personalized, in-home experience where the chef handles everything on-site. Swiftly Catered suits groups wanting a flexible, social atmosphere, whether at home or another venue. For a more refined, restaurant-style culinary adventure, Roux 30A delivers with its chef’s table and themed events.
Think about whether you prefer the comfort of an in-home experience or the elegance of a curated dining setting. Use this comparison to guide your decision, and keep reading for more detailed recommendations.
Conclusion
Planning a 30A getaway and looking for something more memorable than your usual dining spots? A private cooking class could be just the thing, offering a hands-on experience with local chefs and a chance to master Gulf seafood techniques. Chef Jojo provides a fully tailored, in-home experience complete with a three-course meal - perfect for intimate celebrations or lively group gatherings. For a more social atmosphere, Swiftly Catered pairs multi-course menus with a wine-friendly vibe, making it a hit for friend groups or bachelorette parties. Over in Grayton Beach, Roux 30A delivers a chef's table experience, where Chef Nikhil Abuvala blends technique and global flavors in a way that’s sure to impress food enthusiasts.
Each of these options offers a stress-free way to enjoy a unique culinary adventure. Skip the crowded restaurants and dive into cooking techniques while the chefs take care of all the prep and cleanup. Not only will you pick up new skills, but you'll also walk away with unforgettable memories. Be sure to book early, confirm your group size and dietary preferences, and ask for an all-inclusive price in U.S. dollars.
To elevate your getaway even further, pair your cooking class with local discoveries. Check out sowal.co, a digital guide to South Walton and the 30A coastline, for insider tips on hidden beaches, fresh farmers markets, and local eateries. It’s the perfect way to round out your Emerald Coast experience.
FAQs
How do I choose the best private cooking class on 30A?
When choosing between Chef Jojo 30A, Swiftly Catered, and Roux 30A, it all comes down to the type of experience you’re after.
- Chef Jojo 30A brings gourmet flair to your kitchen with chef-led classes that feel like fine dining at home.
- Swiftly Catered is all about convenience, offering quick, tailored sessions designed for those with packed schedules.
- Roux 30A delivers a more intimate, hands-on experience, perfect for small groups or couples seeking a personal, interactive vibe.
Think about what matters most to you - menu variety, pricing, or scheduling - and pick the option that aligns with your preferences.
Do these cooking classes offer options for specific dietary needs?
While specific details about dietary accommodations for private cooking classes aren't usually outlined, many instructors are open to customizing their lessons to suit individual dietary preferences or restrictions. To ensure your needs are met, it's a smart move to reach out to the instructor or class provider directly and discuss any requirements before making a reservation.
How can I book a private cooking class on 30A?
If you're looking to book a private cooking class on 30A, the best approach is to get in touch with the provider directly. You can do this by visiting their website or using a reliable local resource to gather more information. Make sure to check their availability and discuss any special needs or requests for your group or event.
