Keep it Real
at Every Meal
The Real Food Academy Miami
Address
570-A NE 81st StMiami, FL 33138
Hours
We are available nearly 24/7 by phone. Hours will vary when our team is at the venue.
Sign Up for Our Summer Camps Now
Or check out our other classes below
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 in Miami, FL 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.
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!
From Beginner to Gourmet
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits at The Real Food Academy
Upcoming Classes
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After School Cooking Classes
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After School Cooking Classes - Teens
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Kids Cooking Classes
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Thursday Evening Adult
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Other Classes & Events
The World of Hospitality and How to create a Buffet Table!
After School Class
Wednesday 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
November 6th, 2024
HOW TO BECOME A REAL FOOD CHEF SESSION 2
After School Course
Wednesdays 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
January 8th, 2025 through March 12th, 2025
Food Truck Fun Meals
After School Class Teens
Wednesday 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
October 23rd, 2024
The World of Hospitality and How to Become a Successful Chef!
After School Class Teens
Wednesday 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
November 6th, 2024
"Chopped" ~ A Food Challenge Competition
After School Class Teens
Wednesday 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
November 13th, 2024
All About Bread and Pizzas
After School Class Teens
Wednesday 4:30 PM - 11:00 PM
November 20th, 2024
HOW TO BECOME AN AMAZING TEEN CHEF SESSION 2
After School Course Teens
Wednesdays 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
January 8th, 2025 through March 12th, 2025
ALL ABOUT PASTA MAKING [Wild Mushroom and Truffle Oil]
Adult Evening
Thursday 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
October 31st, 2024
ALL ABOUT PASTA MAKING [Pappardelle]
Adult Evening
Thursday 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
December 26th, 2024
MOMMY (OR DADDY) AND ME Flavors of Winter $55 PER PERSON
Other Classes & Events
Friday 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
November 15th, 2024
GINGERBREAD HOUSE DECORATING $65
Other Classes & Events
Friday 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
December 13th, 2024
90 MINUTE FIELD TRIP (YOUR LOCATION OR OURS)
Other Classes & Events
Thursday 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
October 24th, 2024
Complete 3 Simple StepsNewsletter Sign-up
Get Class & Menu Updates
100%
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 Miami, 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
Dairy Free
Nut Free
Soy Free
Vegetarian
Vegan
Our Culinary Events Are Perfect For...
Popular Classes
Check Upcoming Schedule for Course Availability
Revive and Rejuvenate With Plant-Based Superfoods
Embrace the power of nature in this class, where plant-based superfoods are the stars, creating dishes that rejuvenate the body and delight the palate.
A Trip to Bombay
Journey through Bombay's bustling streets in this class, where aromatic spices and vibrant flavors bring the essence of Indian cuisine to life.
Soul Food With Love
Stir up some soul in our kitchen with dishes that weave rich flavors and heartfelt traditions, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.
Knife Skills & Essential Cooking Technique
Sharpen your culinary prowess as you slice, dice, and chop your way through essential kitchen techniques, laying the foundation for culinary excellence.
All About Pasta Making
Unravel the secrets of authentic pasta making, turning flour and eggs into shapes and textures, each draped in sumptuous sauces.
Love on a Plate (Valentines's Day)
Infuse romance into every bite with dishes crafted for love, blending passion and flavor for a truly romantic Valentine's culinary adventure.
Celebrity Chef Guests
Be inspired by the stars of the culinary world as celebrity chefs bring their flair and finesse and share their secrets for extraordinary cooking.
Soups Galore
Simmer and season your way to soup perfection, discovering the art of crafting everything from robust winter broths to refreshing summer soups.
The World of Asian Cuisine
Traverse the diverse culinary landscapes of Asia, from the fiery woks of Thailand to the sushi counters of Japan, in a flavor-packed exploration.
The Magic of Raw Food
Unlock the colorful potential of raw ingredients, creating dishes that burst with natural flavors, vibrant colors, and nourishing goodness.
Healthy Meals in 20 Minutes
Transform your daily dining with quick, healthful, and delectable dishes that bring gourmet flair to your table in just 20 minutes.
Ceviche Workshop
Plunge into the zesty world of ceviche, mastering the delicate balance of fresh seafood, tangy citrus, and a twist of herbs and spices.
Spinach Stuffed Shells
Revel in the joy of stuffed shells, a delightful dance of tender pasta filled with creamy spinach and cheese, baked to perfection.
Exploring Sushi
Roll into the artful world of sushi, where rice, fish, and nori unite in an elegant harmony of flavor and presentation.
Miami Nice
Capture the essence of Miami's culinary melting pot, mixing up dishes that radiate with the city's sunny vibes and diverse cultural influences.
A Little Thai
Embark on a Thai flavor adventure, balancing the intricate dance of sweet, sour, and spice in dishes that tell stories of faraway lands.
Ignite Your Culinary Passion
Adult Thursday Evening Classes
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 OptionsWhen & 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.
DirectionsWhat’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 DetailsHow 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
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 Miami. 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.
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.
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.
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:
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International Cookery
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How to Mise en Place
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Portion Control
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Knife Skills & Cooking Techniques
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Choosing Disease-Preventing Foods
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Create, Connect, Celebrate
Your Real Food Academy Experience Awaits
Parties & Private Groups
Discover the joy of culinary celebrations at The Real Food Academy in Miami, FL! 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.
Camps & Special Events
Explore the exciting world of culinary camps and special events at The Real Food Academy in Miami, FL! 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.
Field Trips & Excursions
Learn more about the unique and educational cooking field trips offered by The Real Food Academy in Miami, FL! 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.
Team Building Classes
Unleash your team's potential with The Real Food Academy's team-building experiences in Miami, FL. 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.
Parent & Child Classes
Embark on a unique culinary journey with our parent-child cooking classes at The Real Food Academy in Miami, FL. 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!
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 $900 for 10 people, with additional guests at just $90 each. Experience a hands-on culinary adventure in Miami, FL, that's sure to strengthen your team and leave lasting memories.
Private Events
Discover the perfect setting for your private group events at The Real Food Academy in Miami, FL. 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.
After School Programs
Discover the wonders of our after-school culinary program for kids aged 5 to 12 at The Real Food Academy in Miami, FL! 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
65 Ideas for an Unforgettable Kids Birthday Party in Miami
At The Real Food Academy in Miami, 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
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 in Miami!
4 Essential Tips for Overcoming Anxiety About Cooking
With these tips from The Real Food Academy in Miami, 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
It takes patience and practice to become a great cook. With a few tips from The Real Food Academy in Miami, 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 in Miami
At The Real Food Academy in Miami, 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!
Why Your Child Needs To Spend At Least One Week At The Real Food Academy Miami This Summer
Learn exactly why your child should spend at least one week at The Real Food Academy in Miami! 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: $40 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.
See Our Venue
See Our Venue
Rave Reviews for The Real Food Academy
proud to have a 4.9 star rating & 700+ reviews
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.
Cooking Classes in Miami, FL
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.
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The Real Food Revolution
Miami Cooking Classes
Join us on a flavorful adventure at our cooking classes in Miami, FL, 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!
