For ages 18 & up

Don't miss this opportunity to spend a little time with the queen of Southern hospitality as she introduces you to irresistible recipes that are perfect for entertaining family and friends. Kelsey Barnard Clark, who catered her first wedding at 15, will share her hard-won wisdom and inspire you to host exceptional gatherings, whether large or small, as she shares tips on table settings, floral arrangements, creating a pantry, menus, and more. As you sit back, relax and take in all of her many tips, she will show you how to make a perfect first course salad; a hearty main course of rice, smoked sausage, shrimp, and Creole seasonings; and a make-ahead version of of bananas sauteed in caramel sauce over ice cream.

Southern Get-Togethers: A Guide to Hosting Unforgettable Gatherings will be for sale on the night of class and Chef Kelsey will personalize copies purchased at Central Market.

ABOUT KELSEY BARNARD CLARK

Kelsey Barnard Clark is a born and raised Gulf Southerner from Dothan, Alabama. She has developed an impressive resume as the fifth woman and first southerner to win the title of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” the sole fan favorite following her season 16 win, and a 2024 James Beard Award nominee for Best Chef: South. She frequently appears on hit Food Network shows including “Tournament of Champions,” “Chopped,” “Bobby’s Triple Threat,” “Guy’s Grocery Games” and more.

Kelsey got her start in the food industry working for a high-end caterer and catered her first solo wedding at age 15. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, she worked savory & pastry in several Michelin-star restaurants in New York City, including Café Boulud and Dovetail. Her signature southern-French cuisine is inspired by family recipes and classic French techniques.

In 2012 Kelsey moved back home to open her catering company, Kelsey Barnard Catering. Today, she runs her catering company and restaurant, KBC, in historic downtown Dothan while also teaching virtual classes, taking her chef talents on the road, and appearing and cooking at events as often as possible. In August 2021, her debut cookbook “Southern Grit” hit shelves. Kelsey share her tips on cooking and entertaining on instagram.

• Spinach & Frisée Salad with Bacon & Cheese

• Jambalaya with Shrimp & Sausage

• Bananas Foster with Pecans served over Vanilla Ice Cream

Safety & Precautions

• At check-in, you will be asked to sign a waiver before entering the Cooking School.

• For that reason, we ask that all attendees arrive at least 5 minutes prior to the confirmed start time of the class.

For more information about our classes, please click on the links below:

Find FAQs about our in-store classes here.

Find FAQs about your private classes here.