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

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 Tampa
Address
3111 W Morrison Ave
Tampa, FL 33629
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

The Real Food Academy Tampa - CAMP DAY $160 [St John's Episcopal School] - Day Camp

CAMP DAY $160 [St John's Episcopal School]

Camp
Thursday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
October 8th, 2026
The Real Food Academy Tampa Chef Maria.
The Real Food Academy Tampa logo white.
The Real Food Academy Tampa 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 in Tampa, 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.

The Real Food Academy Tampa - The Real Food Academy Tampa Is Now Offering:

Special Announcements

The Real Food Academy Tampa Is Now Offering:

☀️ Summer Camps
🎒 Field Trips (We Come to You!)
🎉 Kids’ Birthday Parties at Your Home
🏫 After-School Enrichment Programs at Your School …and much more coming soon!

From Beginner to Gourmet

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits at The Real Food Academy

Upcoming Classes

Online booking for Cooking Classes is unavailable. Please contact us at 813-531-7193 or submit a request below.

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

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 Tampa, 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...

The Real Food Academy Tampa chef's hat icon.

Private Groups

Including:

Birthday Parties


Corporate Parties


Team Building Activities

The Real Food Academy Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa cooking lessons for adults are held on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 10pm at the Real Food Academy kitchen at 3111 W Morrison Ave, Tampa, FL 33629.

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 Tampa offers inclusive and fun cooking camps.

Nurture Culinary Creativity

With Real Food Academy’s Camps and Events

The Real Food Academy Tampa serving dish icon.

Unveiling the Real Culinary Philosophy

At our cooking school in Tampa, 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 Tampa. 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 Tampa offers kids cooking parties, call us today!

Tailored Culinary Celebrations

We go beyond the classroom with our private cooking classes in Tampa, 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 Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa - 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 Tampa 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 Tampa - Best Cooking Birthday Party in Tampa, FL. Real Food Academy

Parties & Private Groups

Discover the joy of culinary celebrations at The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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.

The Real Food Academy Tampa - Fun Camps for Summer in Tampa, FL. The Real Food Academy

Camps & Special Events

Explore the exciting world of culinary camps and special events at The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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.

The Real Food Academy Tampa - Fun Field Trips in Tampa, FL. The Real Food Academy

Field Trips & Excursions

Learn more about the unique and educational cooking field trips offered by The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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.

The Real Food Academy Tampa - Fun Team Building Activities for Team in Tampa, FL. Real Food Academy

Team Building Classes

Unleash your team's potential with The Real Food Academy's team-building experiences in Tampa, 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.

The Real Food Academy Tampa - Mommy and Me Cooking Classes in Tampa, FL. Real Food Academy

Parent & Child Classes

Embark on a unique culinary journey with our parent-child cooking classes at The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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!

The Real Food Academy Tampa - Corporate Event Venues in Tampa, FL. 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 $1,610 for 10 people, with additional guests at just $115 each. Experience a hands-on culinary adventure in Tampa, FL, that's sure to strengthen your team and leave lasting memories.

The Real Food Academy Tampa - Private Family Cooking Classes in Tampa, FL. Real Food Academy

Private Events

Discover the perfect setting for your private group events at The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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.

The Real Food Academy Tampa - Fun After School Programs in Tampa, FL. 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 in Tampa, 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

An image of The Real Food Academy's winter salad recipe - perfect for the holidays in Tampa, FL

5 Must-Try Healthy Holiday Recipes from The Real Food Academy Tampa

Are you looking for delicious and nutritious meals to serve this holiday season? The Real Food Academy team has put together a list of 5 recipes that you can follow step-by-step or use as inspiration for your own holiday creations!

Kids Birthday Party with The Real Food Academy in Tampa.

65 Ideas for an Unforgettable Kids Birthday Party in Tampa

At The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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 in Tampa

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 Tampa!

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

4 Essential Tips for Overcoming Anxiety About Cooking

With these tips from The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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 in Tampa, 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 in Tampa.

How to Get the Most Out of a Cooking Class in Tampa

At The Real Food Academy in Tampa, 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!

Real Food FAQs

At The Real Food Academy, we teach how to cook using real ingredients. We believe that all kinds of meals, snacks, and desserts should be enjoyed, and that what often makes certain foods feel “unhealthy” is the processed ingredients used to make them.

By using better oils, natural sweeteners, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, our customers learn to make food that’s familiar, satisfying, and smarter for their bodies and lifestyles.

Because our staffing, ingredient purchases, and overall preparations are planned based on the number of registered participants, all payments and deposits are non-refundable.

The Real Food Academy offers in-house wine and beer options for adults at all events, including when accompanying kids’ parties. For a full selection, please visit our Wine and Beer list page.

The Real Food Academy can accommodate a wide range of dietary needs and allergies, including:

  • Gluten-free
  • Dairy-free
  • Nut-free
  • Soy-free
  • Vegetarian
  • Vegan

Please let us know your needs in advance so we can plan accordingly and adjust our recipes if needed.

We love when guests personalize and decorate our space. However, items like glitter, confetti, slime, stickers, and noisemakers can be very difficult to clean and may disrupt the experience.

For this reason, we kindly ask that you do not bring these items.

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Rave Reviews for The Real Food Academy

proud to have a 5.0 star rating & 1000+ reviews

  • shruthi v

    We had such a great experience with Real Food Academy Summer Camp! My kids absolutely loved it. They came home excited every day to tell me about what they had made and what they had learned. I especially loved how hands-on the camp was. They weren't just learning about cooking; they were actually in the kitchen making everything themselves. During the week they made watermelon mini cakes, chocolate-covered fruit skewers, fruit parfaits, nutritious pancakes, homemade pizza and pasta dough, minestrone soup, smoothies, black bean brownies, orange peel chicken, and more. One of my favorite parts was seeing how much they actually learned. They came home showing me different ways to cut fruit. They showed me dicing, chopping and making wedges. They were so proud to demonstrate their new skills, and it was really fun to see their confidence in the kitchen grow. My youngest is a very picky eater, so I couldn't believe it when she came home telling us she had the best pizza ever, the best pasta with meatballs ever, and that she ate all of her soup! 😂 This was a pleasant surprise. Seeing her excited to try foods she normally wouldn't touch was so special. Another huge bonus for us parents was that everything was included. We didn't have to worry about feeding the kids breakfast in the morning or packing a lunch. They were cooking and eating at camp. One less thing to worry about! Most importantly, they had loads of FUN! They came home happy every day and excited to tell me about what they had cooked. It's not always easy to find a summer camp that is both entertaining and educational, but Real Food Academy really delivered. I would definitely recommend Real Food Academy Summer Camp to any parent looking for a fun, interactive, and unique summer experience for their kids. We will absolutely be back! ❤️👩‍🍳👩‍🍳🍓🍕
  • Sunny Angstadt

    I found this camp from FB ad while i was desperately needing a camp for the week of Aug 10 as most schools already started and there were not many camp options out there. My son came home every day with what he made at the camp, and he was super proud every day telling me that he rolled the dough, made the pasta, pan cake, waffle, etc. all by himself. The camp staff encouraged him to try things that he never ate before like zucchini and pumpkins. He told me that he ate very healthy every day at the camp, and can't wait to go back the next day to see what they are cooking. If i could give more than 5 stars, I would definitely do it!!!
  • Kelsey Riggs

    This was the BEST camp! The instructors were all incredibly nice and helpful, my son was eager to go every morning, and the food they made was so great! All of the food is of real quality ingredients, and the kids are really doing the cooking! It’s a great balance of cooking things you know kids will like, and also going just a little out of what might be in their norm so they can try new things, They make themselves breakfast, lunch, and a healthy dessert snack every day. During any down time they do group activities that seemed engaging and fun. I’m telling you, my son had a blast. And he is picky about camps. Plus, he brought home leftovers for me to try that he was sooo proud of! We will definitely be signing up again next summer.
  • Erica Dhawan

    BEST CAMP IN TAMPA! Chef Michele and her team do an incredible job with the kids - making breakfast and lunch and learning life skills in the kitchen and in life. This is an incredible school and I can't wait to go back for adult parties!
  • Jenn Lanning

    My 11 yo son spent a week of summer here and loved it! He said it was his favorite camp...and we did 6 different camps this summer. The kids prepare a healthy breakfast, lunch and snack each day. He learned a lot about real food versus processed food and even prepared a full dinner for us at home to show off his skills (all by himself)! The instructors were great. They are operating out of a church kitchen in Palma Ceia until they relocate to a permanent home, but drop off and pick up was a breeze. I highly recommend Real Food Academy Tampa. We'll be back!
  • Kris Gullapalli

    My kids had an absolutely amazing time!! They came home raving about the recipes they made and how they want to make those again. We can’t wait to bring them back there!
  • PJ Crushen

    Before moving from California to Tampa, I spent a lot of time researching summer camps for my 6-year-old daughter. I was specifically looking for a cooking camp, and while there were several options in the Tampa area, Real Food Academy immediately stood out because of its focus on real, wholesome foods and healthy eating. My daughter had an amazing week at camp and came home excited each day to share what she had made. Beyond the delicious recipes, she also built new friendships and gained confidence in the kitchen. As a bonus, the camp made our mornings so much easier by providing the healthy breakfast, lunch, and snacks that the kids prepared themselves. It was wonderful knowing my daughter was enjoying nutritious meals while expanding her cooking skills. We couldn't be happier with our experience and look forward to returning in the future.
  • katie brodie

    My daughter and her bff absolutely loved their week with the Real Food Academy in Tampa! They’ve been more excited to cook at home than ever since they finished the camp. The lessons really left an impact as my daughter has been so much more picky, in a different way than normal, about her food and I love it! The kids learned about so much more than just cooking. Etiquette, teamwork, and knowledge are just a few! The chef instructors are warm and my daughter was always in a good mood at the end of the day. I will absolutely be signing up next summer and have already told all my friends!
  • Nancy Artz

    I cannot say enough wonderful things about Real Food Tampa and the experience they provided for my 12-year-old son. I was initially a little apprehensive about the mixed-age group, and about my son’s attention span and willingness to participate, ,but those concerns disappeared almost immediately. He came home every single day excited to share what he had learned and eager to continue practicing his new skills in the kitchen. What surprised me most was the transformation in his attitude toward healthy eating. He has become genuinely interested in using wholesome ingredients and has enthusiastically encouraged us to incorporate them into our daily routine. That alone has made the program invaluable to our family. The instructors deserve my deepest gratitude. Their ability to connect with the students, keep them engaged, and build both practical cooking skills and confidence is truly exceptional. They didn’t just teach my son how to follow recipes—they taught him that he is capable of preparing healthy meals on his own. Seeing him excited to cook for me has been one of the greatest rewards. If you’re considering this program for your child, I recommend it without hesitation. It has given my son confidence, practical life skills, a healthier outlook on food, new friendships, and memories that I know will stay with him for years to come. Thank you, Real Food Tampa, for making such a meaningful impact on our family.
  • Minda Patt

    My daughters and my niece and nephew spent a week at here, and they absolutely loved it. It was one of those rare camps that was genuinely fun, catered to all their ages, while also teaching real-life skills. They came home excited every day, talking about what they had cooked and eager to recreate the recipes at home. They also learned safe knife skills to chop their own ingredients, some sautéing, spiralizing vegetables, and baking. They worked with fresh and healthy ingredients, and learned about nutrition, and the difference between real food and processed foods. Everything was super hands-on, and evidenced in Instagram reels showing the kids doing it on their own, of course, safely and with direction. It built confidence, independence, and a real sense of pride. Other perks - you don’t have to pack a lunch, they make three meals a day, and it’s a great respite from the Tampa heat and outdoor camps. It was a wonderful experience for all four kids and we’ll definitely end up back again. I believe they have adult experiences as well and offerings all throughout the school year
  • Dana Paris

    My son had an awesome experience!!! He came home and made lots of healthy treats with his friends
  • Michael Fields

    The Real Food Academy provided an outstanding experience for our campers at St. John's Episcopal School's Eagles Camp summer program! Michele and Chef Ricardo did a phenomenal job engaging our students with hands-on activities while teaching them the importance of making healthy food choices and understanding the difference between real foods and ultra-processed foods. Their energy, professionalism, and passion for nutrition made learning both meaningful and fun. Our campers were fully engaged from start to finish, and the positive feedback from both students and parents has been tremendous. A heartfelt thank you to Michele and Chef Ricardo for partnering with us and helping create such a memorable experience for our campers. We are excited to continue this partnership and look forward to welcoming The Real Food Academy back as part of our after-school clubs and enrichment programs during the 2026–2027 school year! Highly recommend The Real Food Academy to any school, camp, or family looking for an engaging and educational culinary experience!
  • Subhadra Sahni

    This is our first summer with The Real Food Academy and my kids absolutely LOVE it!! They told me that this had been the best camp they have ever done! Not only are they cooking healthy and delicious food but they are learning how to make smart choices! I can' recommend this camp enough.
  • Mandy Levy

    Our daughter attended this camp for the first time a few weeks ago, and LOVED it. Not only did she learn lifelong cooking techniques, she was given the confidence and knowledge of using healthy ingredients in everyday recipes. As a mom, I was most impressed with the counselors and staff who truly have a passion for cooking AND educating our youth. My daughter has attended a number of camps throughout the years, and this was by far one of her favorites. Thank you so much for bringing this camp to Tampa!! My daughter can’t wait to attend another session!!
  • Morgan Squire

    I cannot recommend this enough. My kids want to go back every week LOL They have learned so much and truly enjoyed it. The staff is amazing. I can't say enough good things and their requests for junk food have decreased by a lot. Will be back every summer at least. My daughter is even asking for them for the her birthday party !
  • Ashley Johnson

    What a fantastic week my daughters had here! Winning the grand opening sweepstakes was the perfect way to begin their summer vacation! They got so much out of it—from learning more about healthy vs. unhealthy food, cooking, and more—and especially valued the hands-on experience. A HUGE thank you to everyone who made this such a memorable experience! Kudos, best wishes, and every success for the future…we know that The Real Food Academy – Tampa will do great!
  • Meredith Barnett

    This is an amazing camp! It’s not your everyday cooking camp where kids make boxed cupcakes. They teach them about ingredients, techniques and over all wellness. Instructors shop for fresh Ingredients for each class and really let the kids experience cooking and baking themselves. My son loved it so much he wants to go again next week! It is very much worth the cost!
  • Krystel di cristanziano

    My six year old daughter is very shy. We have put her in endless camps cheerleading art the YMCA you name it. The first day of the real food Academy she came out with the biggest smile on her face and she said this is the best camp of my life and I wanna go here forever. Every single day she would come out with a little healthy treat that she had made in class that day. They made flourless muffins. They made macaroni and cheese with chickpeas, and she truly has learned so much about nutrition and how to eat healthy and to avoid processed foods. They also made pasta from scratch and she explained to me how they used the little machines she has had a ball! All of the staff is so encouraging so attentive and sweet. They became like family.I cannot recommend this camp enough. I am so glad it came to Tampa. We will definitely be back 5/5!!!
  • Jenn Budd

    An absolutely incredible experience for your kiddo! Highly recommend! Our daughter has learned so much about eating healthy foods, how to prepare, cook and plate meals. She loves it so much she asked to go back to this camp for the entire summer! Staff is patient and polite and truly have a love for teaching! Would absolutely recommend this experience to anyone!! Sign up for a class or camp today!!
  • LeighAnn Hanley

    Amazing experience with amazing service
A group of adults in chefs hat participating in The Real Food Academy's cooking classes in Tampa, FL.

Cooking Classes in Tampa, 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.

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

The Real Food Revolution

Tampa Cooking Classes

Join us on a flavorful adventure at our cooking classes in Tampa, 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!

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

Join an Upcoming Class

Adult cooking classes offered Every Thursday Night

Special Announcements

The Real Food Academy Tampa Is Now Offering:

☀️ Summer Camps
🎒 Field Trips (We Come to You!)
🎉 Kids’ Birthday Parties at Your Home
🏫 After-School Enrichment Programs at Your School …and much more coming soon!