Here at the CIA, we say “Food is Life,” and that’s not only about being food obsessed (which we are), but also recognizing the important role food plays in our health and wellness. Come join us for this hands-on class where you’ll learn about wellness issues as they relate to food, as well as techniques and recipes for preparing food that is good and good for you.

Discover the best in whiskeys, bourbons and select scotches— from locally-produced bourbons to single malts from Scotland, from small batches to single grains, from the new to the classics. Meet brand ambassadors who will offer their unique insights and specialty products, and experience interactive seminars led by the distillers themselves. Sample dishes from the hottest local restaurants, enjoy live music and multiple DJ stages, select Witte Museum exhibits, craft beer, wine and much more. Whiskey Business is a charitable event…

Whether you are a total cookie rookie or an aspiring bake sale VIP, this one is for you. Come join us for this hands-on class where you’ll learn the fundamentals of the most essential baking techniques, like pie dough, mixing methods, and custards. Learn tips and tricks from a CIA chef instructor that will have you confidently crimping, folding, and frosting your way through any recipe for impressive professional-quality desserts.

If you love grilling but are feeling uninspired by hamburgers and steaks, come join us for this class where you’ll learn tips, tricks, and recipes that will inspire your inner grill-master. Turn up the heat and put that fire to work for breakfast, lunch, appetizers, dinner, and even dessert, to banish those grilling doldrums for good.

The words bistro and brasseries may bring to mind fancy French-ness, but the food served in these French cafes is actually casual fare, like cozy comfort foods that come from a rich history of necessity and sustenance. In this class, learn iconic bistro dishes, like beef stewed in red wine, creamy leek and cheese tart, and chocolate mousse (ooh la la!). CIA chefs will demonstrate how to make a classic French omelets and a decadent croque monsieur, so you can…

Spicy, sweet, and tangy—Thai food is an exciting balance of extremes. This vibrantly flavored cuisine features generous helpings of fresh herbs, spices, and chile peppers with a balance of sweet, salty, and sour characteristics. In this class, you’ll be introduced to the traditional (sometimes unfamiliar) ingredients of the region through classroom discussions, chef demonstrations, and hands-on cooking. You’ll prepare and taste a variety of dishes such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, Thai curries, and many other iconic dishes from…

Homemade bread is at once the most simple and most intimidating challenge home cooks face. It may seem like magic when flour, water, salt, and yeast come together to make everyone’s favorite food, but in this hands-on class, we’ll demystify the art of making bread. Together, we’ll discuss the 12 steps of bread baking, plus cover different types of flours, yeasts, and mixing methods, then get your hands dirty as you gain the confidence to make bread in your own…

Explore the mystique and lore of one of the most colorful and exciting culinary regions of Asia. As a nation of 28 states, India contains a dramatic range of cuisines showcasing seasonal ingredients and unique cooking techniques. During this rich and informative expedition, we will unveil the distinct culinary preferences of India's most influential states and prepare authentic dishes from Kerala, Gujarat, Goa, West Bengal, Tamil, and Punjab. Featured dishes include lamb with vinegar and garlic, cashew nuts with coconut,…

Pasta may be Italy’s most popular contribution to world food, but Italian cuisine is far more diverse than just pastas and sauces. Italian Cooking at Home explores the amazing variety of foods and flavors across every region of Italy, from little snacks and tidbits (spuntini) to the glories of a true Italian brodo (soup broth), from fresh pastas and crespelle (sfoglie) to sweets (dolci). We’ll explore traditional favorites like creamy risotto and tiramisu, and also sample a selection of lesser-known—but…

The San Antonio Beer Festival, founded in 2005, is San Antonio’s original beer fest, pouring 400+ premium and craft beers from 125+ breweries from around the world. Beyond beer, the San Antonio Beer Festival features music,  games, wines, ciders, food trucks, food booths, local vendors and more. Experience the beer festival that San Antonio has loved for more than a decade. Feel free to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a beautiful fall day at Dignowity and Lockwood Parks.…