Culinary Boot Camp 1

Culinary Boot Camp exceeded my expectations which were high, based on all the amazing reviews. It was some of the most intense and satisfying educational experiences I've had in a long time and a perfect balance between rigor and playfulness. I did a lot of research prior to signing up and The Chopping Block kept coming up as "best in class". Now I know why.

Culinary Boot Camp by far exceeded my expectations. I flew in from San Diego to attend the class, and was surprised as to how many attendees were from out of town. While I do some everyday cooking, the class taught me a ton about so many cooking fundamentals but also advanced my abilities in many ways. If you are considering, you will not be disappointed if you take this class. 

Amazing experience. I went from a person who defers to the microwave too often to knowing how and having the confidence to cook really amazing meals. The food and instruction, team atmosphere, and overall environment were nothing short of incredible. If you’re thinking about it, It’s worth the time and investment in yourself!

This is not first class—we’re talking world-class experience! I came to learn the process: how to take food from good to truly great, how to prepare meals the proper way, and how to present them with excellence. Not only did we dive deep into all of that, but into hundreds of other details along the way. The staff and chefs were absolutely fantastic—knowledgeable, passionate, and incredibly generous with what they shared. 

The week I spent at Culinary Boot Camp was a week I will never forget. The hands-on curriculum was focused on developing the participants as cooks, not just how to cook a handful of recipes or one type of food. The atmosphere was fun and supportive, and the chefs were always willing to share their experiences and tips. This was an investment in myself that was well worth it. 

I have been cooking for over 50 years. I have watched thousands of hours of YouTube and other cooking shows. I picked up more in this one week than in all the other instruction combined. It’s the best investment I’ve ever made in learning — not just skills or techniques but the deep knowledge that underlies all the ways we can cook food.

From the moment I registered for Culinary Boot Camp, I knew this was going to be a very special experience. Every person took excellent care of me and went out of their way answering questions, providing support and encouragement, advice, even pouring drinks. This week was one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself. I’ve been cooking and baking for decades, and I learned a ton. If you think you’re a bad cook, come to Boot Camp. If you think you’re a great cook, come to Boot Camp. I’m already planning on coming back for Culinary Boot Camp 2. Fangirl for life!

The week made me more excited to be in the kitchen, vary my weekly cooking routine, and show newly learned techniques to my kids and friends when I return home. My improved cooking skills will improve flavor, color, texture, plating and taste at home. 

I just prepared an omelet. I’ve done this countless times. This one however, was the “perfect omelet” because it was prepared with the recipe and culinary skills I acquired while attending Culinary Boot Camp 1 this summer. If you enjoy cooking and have the desire to upgrade your cooking skills, I highly recommend this camp. It is a rewarding, eye-opening week full of fun! The schedule of 9am-5pm, Monday thru Friday felt intimidating at the time of registration. Once in their kitchen, that worry dissolved. Each morning was met with anticipation. Each day ended with tons of information circling in my head. The week flew by.

The Chopping Block kitchen provides hands on practice with kind, enthusiastic instruction. The chefs there want to see you succeed. You have their knowledge and years of experience at your disposal. Every question is answered without judgment. Their goal is to leave you better informed and more confident than when you started. This is accomplished in a positive, caring atmosphere with great efficiency and purpose. You are treated like a student, but also a customer and a guest. It was truly the highlight of my summer. My one regret… waiting so long to take advantage of the opportunity.

Culinary Boot Camp is a tremendous value and money well spent. Thank you to Chef/Owner Lisa Counts and her team for enlightening my mind and teaching me skills that will benefit myself, and those that enjoy food at my table for years to come. It was a pleasure.