Blue Ribbon Cooking School, Eastlake Neighborhood, Seattle
Hands-on classes are structured around a menu.
Participants are grouped into teams; each team cooks one course and everyone feasts at the end.
Classes are from $50.00 to $95.00
(206) 328-2442, www.blueribboncooking.com

Cook's World, University District, Seattle
Many classes are conducted by the professional chef/owner of the store,
who teaches everything from basics to elaborate sauce-making techniques.
A student could get a complete education in classic cuisine.
Classes are usually $46.00
( 206) 528-8192, www.cooksworld.net

Dish it Up!, Magnolia Neighborhood, Seattle
Demonstration style classes are presented by guest chefs at a swank granite counter surrounding the display kitchen. Portions are generous and include wine pairings. Classes start at $80.00
(206) 281-7800 www.dish-it-up.com

Gretchen's Cooking School, Mount Vernon
Set in the center of the lost-in-time downtown Mount Vernon, this store has a magical charm.
Students sit at the counter where demonstrations are conducted and at surrounding tables, creating a dinner-party atmosphere. Classes range from $25 to $85.00
(360) 336-8747, www.gretchenskitchen.com

Sur La Table, Kirkland
The most spacious, well-equipped and well-staffed school in the area makes up in professionalism what it lacks in intimacy. Video monitors allow students to see every detail that might not be reflected in the large, overhead mirrors.
(425) 827-1311, www.surlatable.com