FREE COOKING CLASSES Debby DeGraaff hosts "Alluring Artichokes," Featuring lessons in the preparation of artichoke pate and pasta salad. 11 a.m. Sat., Aug. 14. Weekly ongoing cooking demonstrations feature various products from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Mon. and Wed. Nature's Food Patch, 1225 Cleveland St., Clearwater (727-443-6703).
CHEF BLITZ'S TASTING TOUR Sample cuisine from around the world without leaving Tampa Bay. Beginning Mon., Aug. 10, Chef Blitz will prepare foods from South America. Prices range from $29 to $44. Reservations accepted. Call for more information. Mise en Place, 442 W. Kennedy Blvd., Ste. 110, Tampa (813-254-5373).
MEET THE CHEF Borders will host a discussion and book signing with Chef Josefa Gonzalez-Hastings of The Habana Cafe. Includes a cooking demonstration and samples of the chef's specialties. Noon-3 p.m. Sat., Aug. 7. Borders, 2683 Gulf to Bay Blvd., Clearwater (727-723-2300).
JOIN THE CLUB The Tampa Bay Culinary Club will be hosting a demonstration and sampling by Chef Dominic of Cafe Largo and Chef Peter of Le Bouchon Bistro. 11:30 a.m. Sat., August 14. $10 per person, reservation required. Cafe Largo, 12551 Indian Rocks Road, Largo (727-789-6205).
CARIBBEAN CUISINE Chef Edyth James offers Caribbean-cooking demonstrations, complete with dinner and specialty drinks. 6:30-8 p.m. the second Mon. of each month. $25 per person. Saffron's Caribbean, 1700 Park St. N., St. Petersburg (727-343-5410 or www.saffronscuisine.com).
CHOCOLATE CRAZIES Join premier pastry chef Michael Baugh for classes. Make fabulous dessert creations you take home at the end of each class, and nibble on wine and hors d'oeuvres while you learn. $40 per person. Baking 101: 5-8 p.m. each Tues. Chocolate Sculpture 101: 5-8 p.m. each Wed. Let Them Eat Cake, 3805 S. Westshore Blvd., Tampa (813-837-6888 or www.chocolateismycrayon.com).
