Where are classes held?

In the school's central kitchen in downtown Santa Barbara at 21 E Constance Ave. and its satellite kitchen in Solvang. Some programs also run at schools and partner sites around the county.

What do I need to bring?

Nothing but close-toed shoes. The school provides all ingredients, equipment and recipes. Kids should also bring a labeled water bottle.

Can I bring my own wine?

No. Outside alcohol isn't allowed. Guests 21 and over get complimentary wine with the seated dinner at evening classes.

What if I need to cancel?

You get a full refund within 24 hours of purchase. If you cancel at least 3 business days before the class starts, you get a full refund minus a 15% processing fee, or a credit for a future class with no fee.

Can they handle dietary restrictions?

Yes, they do their best with gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free and other needs. Note them when you register. Because the kitchens are shared, they can't guarantee an allergen-free environment.

Community kitchen · Santa Barbara

Apples to Zucchini Cooking School

Santa Barbara County's only nonprofit cooking school, with seasonal classes for all ages

About Apples to Zucchini Cooking School

Apples to Zucchini is Santa Barbara County's only nonprofit cooking school. It began in 2016 with one after-school class in Goleta. Today it teaches toddlers through adults in its kitchen at 21 E Constance Ave. in downtown Santa Barbara and in a satellite kitchen in Solvang. In July 2026, trained chef Jill Barton took over as Executive Director from founder Nancy Martz. A trained culinary educator leads each class with help from volunteer "Sous Chefs," and every class ends with a shared meal at the table.

Adult classes (18+) cost $125. They cook seasonal menus such as Mastering Braises and Roasts, Fall Harvest Side Dishes, Chinese Dumplings and Frutti di Mare Risotto. Guests 21 and over get complimentary wine with dinner at evening classes. Family classes for all ages cost $25. Kids in grades 1 to 6 can take baking workshops over Thanksgiving week, and there are weekly summer camps too.

Private classes for teams and celebrations usually run 2.5 hours, with a custom seasonal menu and a seated dinner. Every booking helps fund cooking lessons in local schools, libraries and youth shelters.