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A group of adults cooking in skillets, try one of our cooking classes.

Keep it Real

at Every Meal

  • Real Ingredients
  • Real Joy
  • Real Food
  • Real Connections
  • Real Skills
  • Real Food Academy
  • Real Ingredients
  • Real Joy
  • Real Food
  • Real Connections
  • Real Skills
  • Real Food Academy
The Real Food Academy Chef Maria.
The Real Food Academy logo white.
The Real Food Academy Arthur Cummins.

Real Food. Real Connections. Real Skills.

Real food that awakens more than just your taste buds

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Welcome to The Real Food Academy, where every whisk, chop, and stir is a step towards culinary delight. Established in 2008 by the renowned Head Chef Maria Cummins, our academy has become a culinary haven for all ages, offering cooking classes that cater to everyone from 5 years old to grown-up gourmets.

Beyond the joy of cooking, we illuminate the significance of gathering together. It's about fostering connections, understanding the impact of what we consume, and realizing that cooking is a holistic experience—nourishing not only the body but also the soul. At The Real Food Academy, we're on a mission to showcase how the act of preparing meals can be a source of joy, wellness, and a celebration of life itself!

At The Real Food Academy, we are pioneering a real food revolution by teaching people how to eat smarter and healthier. We transform cooking into an art form, infusing every dish with natural, unprocessed ingredients. Inspiring and involving communities in the pleasures of nourishing eating, we foster a movement towards healthier and more interconnected lifestyles. We strive to ignite a passion for nutritious, flavor-packed meals that nourish both the body and the soul. Join us at the heart of this revolution, where each class is a celebration of the pure, simple delights of real food.

At our core, our mission is to inspire and empower individuals to embrace healthier dietary choices through an array of fun and flavorful dishes. This commitment is driven by the pressing need to address rising health concerns in the United States through the promotion of mindful eating. Through our engaging, hands-on classes, we educate participants on how to incorporate fresh, real ingredients into their meals and create a well-rounded diet that promotes good health.

Dive into our world where kids simmer with excitement, teens unleash their inner chef, and adults rediscover the magic of cooking. Our academy is more than a place to learn recipes; it's a vibrant community celebrating diverse flavors and the joy of shared meals.

The Real Food Academy - The Real Food Academy Is Franchising

Special Announcements

The Real Food Academy Is Franchising

The Real Food Academy is now offering a fun & family-friendly franchise opportunity. We are expanding and inviting franchisees to join us on our culinary journey! Follow us on Instagram and Learn how you can #inspirelovethroughfood!

The Real Food Academy - The Real Food Academy is Now Enrolling our Spring Break Camp!

Special Announcements

The Real Food Academy is Now Enrolling our Spring Break Camp!

Spring Break camp is lots of fun! Just like the Summer Camp (our popular summer destination for kids, this one is held during spring break! Its just one week, so hurry before they are gone!

From Beginner to Gourmet

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits at The Real Food Academy

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The Real Food Academy

Select a Location Below

Florida

The Real Food Academy Miami

The Real Food Academy Miami

Address

570-A NE 81st St
Miami, FL 33138

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Get Class & Menu Updates

A group of kids at The Real Food Academy's cooking camps.

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Hands-On

All our classes are 100% hands-on and, unlike other cooking schools, we are not limited to any one cuisine!

Dietary Accommodations

Real Flavor for Everyone

At The Real Food Academy, we take pride in crafting culinary experiences that are not only delectable but also safe for every palate. Our dedicated team understands the significance of dietary accommodations, and we go the extra mile to ensure that every participant can savor our creations without worry.

From gluten-free alternatives to nut-free options, we're well-versed in a wide range of allergies and dietary restrictions. Our kitchen is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to prevent cross-contamination, and our instructors are adept at adapting recipes to suit individual needs.

You can trust that at our academy, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Join us for a flavorful journey where allergies are never a barrier to delicious dining!

We offer a variety of dietary accommodations, including but not limited to:

Gluten Free
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Nut Free
Soy Free
Soy Free
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
Vegan
Vegan

Our Culinary Events Are Perfect For...

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Private Groups

Including:

Birthday Parties


Corporate Parties


Team Building Activities

The Real Food Academy offers exciting private group events.

Private Groups

Including:

Birthday Parties


Corporate Parties


Team Building Activities

Ignite Your Culinary Passion

Adult Thursday Evening Classes

The Real Food Academy fork and spoon icon.

What's Included?

To ensure an enjoyable experience as possible, we provide the kitchen, the chef instructor, utensils and ingredients to create your own culinary masterpiece.

Wine & Beer Options

When & Where Is It?

Our Miami cooking lessons for adults are held on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 10pm at the Real Food Academy kitchen at 570-A NE 81st St, Miami, FL 33138.

Directions

What’s the Price?

Our Thursday evening classes are $85, $95 or $105 per class, depending on the menu served. See final price upon booking.

Adult Class Details

How Can I Book?

Booking a cooking class is easy using our online booking system. Chose a class above or get a package below for a better value and then come back and book the class(es)!

Book Online Now
The Real Food Academy offers inclusive and fun cooking camps.

Nurture Culinary Creativity

With Real Food Academy’s Camps and Events

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Unveiling the Real Culinary Philosophy

At our cooking school in Miami, Florida, we abide by a simple yet transformative mantra:

“We don’t change the dish, we change the ingredients!”

If a cooking school and functional medicine had a baby - it would be The Real Food Academy. This philosophy empowers our aspiring chefs, both young and adult, to cook what they love while incorporating healthy, all-natural substitutes. The result? Meals that are not only better for them but also taste better, creating a harmonious blend of health and flavor.

The Real Food Academy offers kids cooking parties, call us today!

Tailored Culinary Celebrations

We go beyond the classroom with our private cooking classes in Miami, ideal for birthday parties, corporate events, or any gathering worth celebrating. Our professional chefs craft custom menus, turning your special occasions into unforgettable culinary experiences.

The Real Food Academy cooking classes are a great way to be connections.

Our Commitment

Whether you're a young chef just starting or an adult looking to refine your culinary skills, the Real Food Academy is committed to fostering a love for real, wholesome ingredients. Join us on this culinary journey where cooking becomes an art, and every meal is a celebration of taste, health, and the joy of good food.

The Real Food Academy head chef Maria.

Maria Cummins

A Culinary Visionary

Founded over a decade ago, The Real Food Academy continues to thrive under the visionary leadership of Head Chef Maria Cummins and her husband. Their culinary mission extends beyond conventional boundaries, offering a diverse catalog of cooking camps and classes at our Miami cooking school. From Saturday kids' cooking classes to Mommy and Me sessions, after-school programs, and professional culinary courses for adults, there's a culinary adventure for everyone.

Dish by Dish, Skill by Skill

Here are a few of the things you'll learn at the Real Food Academy:

The Real Food Academy - International Cookery

International Cookery

In every lesson, we will travel around the world and prepare traditional dishes utilizing healthy ingredients (the ones that are good for you!) We will be offering lessons on breakfast, brunch, lunch, snacks, and dinner preparation.

The Real Food Academy - How to Mise en Place

How to Mise en Place

Organize your meal preparation ahead of time. This way you'll have more time to enjoy with family and friends and less time worrying about the actual cooking part of a meal.

The Real Food Academy - Portion Control

Portion Control

Don't go hungry, just eat what’s right for you! You will not go hungry or suffer from energy depletion if you eat the right foods. We will teach you how to identify and choose the right ingredients, portions and how to combine different types of food for your benefit.

The Real Food Academy - Knife Skills & Cooking Techniques

Knife Skills & Cooking Techniques

Master the art of professionals and cook anything the healthy way! For example, learning how to cut properly can make the difference between seeing kitchen work as a chore and a joy.

The Real Food Academy - Choosing Disease-Preventing Foods

Choosing Disease-Preventing Foods

Learn the power of nutrient-rich herbs, spices, vegetables, low sugar fruits, non-processed meats and many more foods that are rich in antioxidants, resveratol, vitamins and minerals essential in healthy eating.

The Real Food Academy - International Cookery

International Cookery

In every lesson, we will travel around the world and prepare traditional dishes utilizing healthy ingredients (the ones that are good for you!) We will be offering lessons on breakfast, brunch, lunch, snacks, and dinner preparation.

The Real Food Academy - How to Mise en Place

How to Mise en Place

Organize your meal preparation ahead of time. This way you'll have more time to enjoy with family and friends and less time worrying about the actual cooking part of a meal.

The Real Food Academy - Portion Control

Portion Control

Don't go hungry, just eat what’s right for you! You will not go hungry or suffer from energy depletion if you eat the right foods. We will teach you how to identify and choose the right ingredients, portions and how to combine different types of food for your benefit.

The Real Food Academy - Knife Skills & Cooking Techniques

Knife Skills & Cooking Techniques

Master the art of professionals and cook anything the healthy way! For example, learning how to cut properly can make the difference between seeing kitchen work as a chore and a joy.

The Real Food Academy - Choosing Disease-Preventing Foods

Choosing Disease-Preventing Foods

Learn the power of nutrient-rich herbs, spices, vegetables, low sugar fruits, non-processed meats and many more foods that are rich in antioxidants, resveratol, vitamins and minerals essential in healthy eating.

A group of adults at a The Real Food Academy birthday party.

Cooking Up Success

bring the team together with a private cooking event

Create, Connect, Celebrate

Your Real Food Academy Experience Awaits

The Real Food Academy - Best Cooking Birthday Party. Real Food Academy

Parties & Private Groups

Discover the joy of culinary celebrations at The Real Food Academy! Our parties, perfect for kids, teens, adults, corporate teams, and private groups, blend hands-on cooking fun with expert guidance. Each event is a unique culinary journey, customizable to fit your special occasion. Whether it's a child's birthday bash, an adult gourmet gathering, or a corporate team-building exercise, our kitchen becomes a playground of flavors and fun. Learn how we can make your next event an unforgettable cooking adventure.

The Real Food Academy - Fun Camps for Summer. The Real Food Academy

Camps & Special Events

Explore the exciting world of culinary camps and special events at The Real Food Academy! Our camps, perfect for kids aged 5 to 16, offer a whirlwind of flavor and fun. Each weeklong Spring, Summer, and Winter Camp presents a unique menu, providing new experiences in every session. For days off school, our day camps infuse holidays with cooking and creativity. Beyond camps, our special events are more than gatherings; they are culinary quests celebrating the essence of seasons, holidays, and special occasions. Our camps and events promise an enriching, hands-on culinary adventure, ensuring a memorable and educational experience. Learn more about our fun-filled culinary camps and events.

The Real Food Academy - Fun Field Trips. The Real Food Academy

Field Trips & Excursions

Learn more about the unique and educational cooking field trips offered by The Real Food Academy! Our Our field trips are designed to introduce students to the joys of cooking with real food and emphasize the importance of making healthy food choices. During these hands-on experiences, students learn the difference between real food and processed food, gaining a deeper understanding of the benefits of nutritious eating. Our mobile kitchen brings this culinary adventure right to your location, or you can come to us! Suitable for ages 3–14, our field trips provide an extraordinary opportunity for students to learn the essentials of healthy cooking and ways to maintain a wholesome diet every day while avoiding processed food.

The Real Food Academy - Fun Team Building Activities for Team. Real Food Academy

Team Building Classes

Unleash your team's potential with The Real Food Academy's team-building experiences. Our culinary adventures go beyond cooking classes, offering a recipe for stronger team dynamics, enhanced communication, and a touch of corporate fun. In our state-of-the-art kitchen, your team will embark on a collaborative and creative culinary journey. Cooking together breaks the monotony of office routines while fostering trust and teamwork. Our activities engage every team member, regardless of their cooking skills, ensuring everyone contributes to the meal preparation.

The Real Food Academy - Mommy and Me Cooking Classes. Real Food Academy

Parent & Child Classes

Embark on a unique culinary journey with our parent-child cooking classes at The Real Food Academy. These special classes offer an unparalleled bonding experience for parents and their children, welcoming all family dynamics—whether it’s father-son, aunt-niece, or mother-daughter. Available only a few times a year, each class is an opportunity for families to cook side-by-side, guided by our experienced chefs. With a focus on real, healthy ingredients, the recipes are both easy to prepare and delightful to taste. Create lasting memories and take home recipes to enjoy again. Capture these special moments with your camera and cherish them for a lifetime. Learn more and reserve your spot in our family-focused cooking classes!

The Real Food Academy - Corporate Event Venues. Real Food Academy

Corporate Events

Transform your next corporate event into an unforgettable team-building experience with The Real Food Academy's cooking parties! In today’s ever-changing professional landscape, enhancing team morale and fostering strong relationships is essential. Our culinary events, specifically designed for corporate teams, lift spirits, strengthen team dynamics, and promote work-life balance. Select from a variety of cuisines, book your event effortlessly, and customize it with our exclusive wine and beer add-on packages. Perfect for any corporate occasion, our parties start at $800 for 10 people, with additional guests at just $80 each. Experience a hands-on culinary adventure sure to strengthen your team and leave lasting memories.

The Real Food Academy - Private Family Cooking Classes. Real Food Academy

Private Events

Discover the perfect setting for your private group events at The Real Food Academy. From family reunions and friend get-togethers to anniversaries, bridal showers, and milestone celebrations, our cooking classes and parties provide a unique, interactive experience ideal for any occasion. Whether learning new recipes or mastering cooking techniques, our expert chefs guide you through an unforgettable culinary adventure tailored to your group's preferences. Each session promises fun, engagement, and delicious outcomes. With a fully equipped kitchen and a welcoming atmosphere, we ensure your private event is both memorable and enjoyable.

The Real Food Academy - Fun After School Programs. Real Food Academy

After School Programs

Discover the wonders of our after-school culinary program for kids aged 5 to 12 at The Real Food Academy! Every Wednesday from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm for kids & Tuesday from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm for Teens, we offer a journey through the world of cooking. Covering everything from breakfast creations to gourmet meals and even sushi making, this 10-week course is perfect for budding chefs of all skill levels. Each week introduces a new culinary concept, allowing kids to learn and create multiple dishes. Whether booking the entire course or selecting individual classes, your child will explore a range of cooking techniques and styles, igniting a lifelong passion for real, delicious food. Learn more to enroll your young chef!

Real Food Blog

Kids Birthday Party with The Real Food Academy.

65 Ideas for an Unforgettable Kids Birthday Party

At Real Food Academy, we know planning a birthday party can be overwhelming and stressful, but we're here to make it easy and fun. Read on to see a few of our favorite themes to choose from.

Knife Skills Every Beginner Cook Should Know with The Real Food Academy

Knife Skills Every Beginner Cook Should Know

One of the first skills novice chefs need to acquire is proficient knife handling. Learn more about these key knife skills for beginners, brought to you by The Real Food Academy!

4 Essential Tips for Overcoming Anxiety About Cooking with The Real Food Academy.

4 Essential Tips for Overcoming Anxiety About Cooking

With these tips from The Real Food Academy, you'll be able to conquer your fear of the kitchen and enjoy delicious homemade meals in no time.

Essential Tips to Make You a Better Cook with The Real Food Academy.

Essential Tips to Make You a Better Cook

It takes patience and practice to become a great cook. With a few tips from The Real Food Academy, you'll be on your way to creating delicious and impressive dishes in no time.

How to Get the Most Out of a Cooking Class with The Real Food Academy.

How to Get the Most Out of a Cooking Class

At The Real Food Academy, we believe that cooking is about creating an experience. Read on for some tips about how to get the most out of a cooking class!

Kids at The Real Food Academy - learn everything you need to know about the benefits of our cooking classes!

Why Your Child Needs To Spend At Least One Week At The Real Food Academy This Summer

Learn exactly why your child should spend at least one week at The Real Food Academy! Here's what you need to know!

Real Food FAQs

No. All Payments and Deposits are non-refundable: When a payment or deposit is made, that day and time is no longer available to other customers on our calendar. For that reason, all payments and deposits are non-refundable.

In the case of a cooking class, the ingredients are shopped for and prepped in advance. Staff is also scheduled according to the number of people on the roster.

See our Wine and Beer list for your in-house kids party options. Optionally, you can bring your own wine or beer and page a corkage fee.

Corkage Fees

  • $15 per 750 ml bottle of wine
  • $30 per 1.5 L bottle of wine

Bring outside beer: $20 for beer (any quantity)

We love it when our customers decorate our place. That said, you have no idea how difficult it is to clean these types of things up. As far as noisemakers go......you will be glad you left them at home as well. So please do not bring any of those things.

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Rave Reviews for The Real Food Academy

proud to have a 4.9 star rating & 700+ reviews

  • Vivian Urquijo

    Amazing time It was an amazing experience as always my kids had a good time and learned new cooking techniques, I love the place and very much recommend.
  • sfuji15 (bam)

    Amazing experience and a fun time! Maria was great and explained everything so well and made sure everyone was on the right page. Would definitely recommend and will for sure be coming back!
  • Jodi Lewis

    Had such a great time at the pasta making class!
  • Carlos20

    The people in at this restaurant and academy are some of the kindest people I have had the joy of meeting in my life, they will treat you like family and chef Maria will cook you an spectacular meal like you can't imagine. 10 out 10 recommend this place. Love their food like you got no idea.
  • Yvan Luzardo

    Excellent experience very good food Amazing service Staff is A++++++ Def will be back !
  • rswingle

    Great group/team-building event.
  • Alpesh Patel

    Experience was great with Chef Toni! Very polite, great food and atmosphere! Food was tasty and flavorful!
  • Laurie Minott

    Amazing experience! Toni and Carmen are the best! Hope to be back soon!
  • Ted Davis

    Great team building experience, food was terrific & instruction outstanding. Don’t forget some good wine!
  • Tom Williamson

    Chef Toni and Carmen were amazing hosts and instructors at The Real Food Academy! The food, teaching and experience made us all feel like Michelin chefs! I highly recommend them for you next team build or even date night with couples.
  • Caitlin Forsthoefel

    Amazing experience!! My husband and I did the Asian fusion class with a small group of people we didn’t know. Everyone was so nice and Maria was incredible. She was so friendly, patient and fun. The food was delicious and definitely enough! We left wi the happy bellies. Highly recommend!
  • Jose Laphitzondo

    I took the Asian Fusion class with Maria. It was fantastic! Just be careful about the spice. People in our table/group were also lovely.
  • Noelia Leite

    What a great class and great place!!! Maria is great and I learned a lot today. Thank u!!!
  • Sammie Elston

    MEXICAN CUISINE I really had a wonderful time! Chef Maria was great!!! Already booked for next week. 100% recommend to singles, couples, friends and great to way to bond and spend time with the family too.
  • Hannah O'Donnell

    My boyfriend and I had the best time! Mahi Mahi tacos, street corn, and ceviche galore!
  • Chrissy Gonzalez

    Our Kindergarten students visited The Real Food Academy for the first time and had an incredible experience. Not only was it very hands-on and very age appropriate, but the kids had the opportunity to make their culinary creation and dance while their meals were in the oven. Overall wonderful experience, we will definitely be visiting again.
  • Brad Hobbs

    Our son was apprehensive when we arrived. He was clinging to us balling his eyes scared to separate saying he was too shy. The staff took it upon themselves to make him feel comfortable and he finally calmed down just in time to participate. He had a blast. So much so he wouldn’t stop asking when we were going again and said, “don’t worry, I won’t cry.” We are back again today and he is full of smiles ready to have a great time.
  • Stephanie Roig

    This was one of the funniest and best experience I’ve had. They were super nice and taught you step by step. The food was amazing and delicious !!! The company and staff was amazing !! I would 100% recommend again !!! Loved every minute of this experience. Will be coming back again.
  • Gabriela La Cruz

    It’s such a great experience, tasty food, nice and patient instructors. Great ambiance
  • Maddy

    Beautiful experience, you get your own station, cook delicious food with healthy, quality ingredients. Highly recommend this place!
Two champaign glasses being drank at The Real Food Academy cooking classes.
The Real Food Academy wine icon.

All Class Menus Are

Paired Perfectly

Don't stop on the way to the class to pick up wine, we take the time to pair each menu with the perfect wine that complements the flavors. Don't hassle with B.Y.O.B. The Real Food Academy has you covered.
A group of adults in chefs hat participating in The Real Food Academy's cooking classes.

Cooking Classes

Food, Fun, and Connection

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Imagine a birthday party where laughter intertwines with the aroma of freshly baked cakes or an evening class where adults find solace in the sizzle of a pan. Our parties are not just events; they're a festival of food and fun, tailored to make every milestone unforgettable.

Cooking camps at The Real Food Academy are where culinary dreams take flight. More than a day camp, they're a playground for the imagination, where kids mix, mingle, and master the art of healthy eating and joyful cooking.

And for the corporate world? We bring a twist to team building. Swap the boardroom for our kitchen, where colleagues connect over chopping boards and share victories with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of laughter.

Each visit to The Real Food Academy is an opportunity to find your rhythm in the kitchen dance, creating delicious memories at every step. Whether you're taking your first steps in culinary arts, looking to improve your diet with simple healthy dishes, or a seasoned cook looking to add some spice to your skills, our doors are open to all.

Learn More
Fresh made appetizers at The Real Food Academy's cooking classes.
Fresh hummis and carrots made in one of The Real Food Academy's cooking classes.
Fresh cheese and grape platter at The Real Food Academy's cooking class.

The Real Food Revolution

Cooking Classes

Join us on a flavorful adventure at our cooking classes where The Real Food Academy transcends the ordinary cooking experience. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned chef, experience firsthand why The Real Food Academy is a place where every meal is an artful creation, every gathering a celebration of community, and every recipe a testament to healthy living. Join a class today!

A table with ingredients and food at The Real Food Academy.

Join an Upcoming Class

Adult cooking classes offered Every Thursday Night

Special Announcements

The Real Food Academy Is Franchising

The Real Food Academy is now offering a fun & family-friendly franchise opportunity. We are expanding and inviting franchisees to join us on our culinary journey! Follow us on Instagram and Learn how you can #inspirelovethroughfood!

Learn More