I’m sure it’s no surprise to hear that I love to take cooking classes. Anytime I get to learn more from the experts, I’m in!!! When Uncorked Kitchen reached out a few weeks ago inviting me to come to their cooking school, I responded with an enthusiastic YES and invited my friend Brandi to join in on the fun!
Located in Centennial, CO in the heart of a busy shopping, dining, and entertainment, I was stunned to find this beautiful school tucked away near some of my favorite restaurants and shopping venues.
Uncorked Kitchen calls itself an “interactive dining experience,” and what a great description that is! We rolled up our sleeves and got involved in the process while enjoying delicious wine and great company. Such a lovely afternoon!
We arrived a little early to the class, checking in and getting a quick tour of the facility. Not only does the site have three full kitchen classrooms, but also a beautiful wine bar and patio with incredible view of the Rocky Mountains!
I was also excited to hear that they offer adult events, kids classes, wine tastings, and they also host parties! With a birthday coming up in 6 months, I’m always looking for something fun to do to celebrate. This idea may end up being the winner! I also couldn’t help snapping this shot of an adorable group of little chefs cooking in the classroom next to ours. So so cute!
After perusing the calendar of events (and a lots of texting back and forth) to find the perfect class, Brandi and I decided on a midday Backyard Grilling class. It was a menu that both of us DROOLED over… and there were beets on the menu!!!
Bacon-Wrapped Dates Stuffed with Goat Cheese
Roasted Beets with Grilled Spring Onions and Mushrooms
Grilled Pound Cake with Rum-Scented Grilled Pineapple
When we arrived in class, we learned that there were eight other cooks joining us to create this beautiful meal. We sat together at a community table, getting to know one another, and ordered some glasses of wine to pair with the experience. A super-hot Colorado day, I chose a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc to enjoy. The wine list is extensive… lots of great wines to choose from!
The class kicked off with some classic food prep. Naturally, we had to prepare our food before taking it out to the grill, and we all jumped in on the action!
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Our class was led by Chef Albert Gonzales who not only created this beautiful menu for all of us to enjoy, but also walked us through how to prepare the meal for ourselves. As a bonus, he shared several of his favorite kitchen tips that I found to be super helpful.
We prepped the pineapple, prepared the bacon-wrapped dates, and made the pound cake before heading downstairs to fire up the grills!
Not only were there grills lined up for our use, but also the most beautiful table was set for our meal. Note: I have a soft spot for dining al fresco. White plates, wine glasses, and white linens, just lovely.
We quickly started grilling up all the necessary items: bacon wrapped dates, then veggies (including beets!), then steaks, and finally pineapple. So, so delicious!
We also whipped up the roasted veggie sauce on the patio and learned some carving skills…
Then, it was time to dine. Chef Albert walked us through his recommendation for plating the dish, which I just so happened to catch on video below.
As though we hadn’t enjoyed enough food already, it was time for dessert. I’ve never been much of a grilled pineapple person, but it’s official… I’ve been converted. THIS. DESSERT. ROCKED.
Overall, I would HIGHLY recommend a visit to Uncorked Kitchen. It is a beautiful location with so much attention paid to the details of the experience. Additionally, the food was INCREDIBLE. You’re not going to be disappointed, and you may just see me in a future class.
Speaking of which, my new friends at Uncorked Kitchen would like to offer a special 15% off No Thanks to Cake discount to my readers. See you there!
Disclaimer: I received a free class enrollment from Uncorked Kitchen in exchange for this review; however, all of the opinions and comments about the experience are exclusively my own and do not necessarily represent that of the brand.