Below is a listing of classes and events that bolster your cuisine expertise and offer tasty experiences. If you have info you'd like to share with Planet readers, please write to Culinary Events, Weekly Planet, 1310 E. Ninth Ave., Tampa, FL 33603. Or e-mail [email protected].
GRILLMASTER Chef John Pivar, executive chef of the Vinoy Renaissance Resort in St. Pete, displays his barbecuing skills during a class focusing on ribs, sauces and salsas, with emphasis on grilling beef and baby back ribs. $30 per person, includes recipes and food. 6:15-7:30 p.m., Tues., Dec. 10. The Outdoor Kitchen Store, 3925 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. 813-875-3447.
BAKING INSTRUCTION Chef Debby DeGraaff discusses fast and easy holiday cookies in her next free vegetarian cooking class. 7-8 p.m.,Wed., Dec. 11, and 10-11 a.m., Thu., Dec. 12, Nature's Harvest Market, 1021 N. MacDill Ave., Tampa. 813-873-7428.
TAMPA BAY CULINARY CLUB features Chef Stafford Parker, of Bellarte at the Radisson, during its December monthly meeting. $10 per person. Noon, Dec. 14, Bellarte at the Radisson, 12600 Roosevelt Blvd., St. Petersburg. Reservations required. Call Jeanne at 727-789-2605.
JAZZ LUNCHEON WMNF- 88.5 FM teams with Latin jazz artist Bobby Ramirez and Viva La Frida Mexican restaurant to present a holiday luncheon to benefit needy children. Admission is $10, or the donation of a new children's toy, game of gift, plus the price of lunch, which will be offered from the restaurant's regular menu items. Noon -2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15, Viva La Frida Cafe Y Galeria, 5901 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. 813-231-9199.
SUBTLE SUSHI Profusion Restaurant's top sushi chefs demonstrate the fine art of sushi preparation. $60, including sushi kit and all material needed for the class. Noon-2 p.m., Sat., Dec. 21. Profusion, 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. 813-353-8400.
