Foodies Unite in Tahoe

For those who want to learn how the magic happens in the kitchen, now's your chance. Stella at The Cedar House Sport Hotel in Truckee has transitioned from a traditional restaurant to an R & D kitchen with cooking classes and underground dinner parties open to the general public plus custom dining options for groups. Run by acclaimed executive chef Jacob Burton the new hot spot, Stella Culinary, will host educational programs including single day courses to week-long kitchen adventures.

Expect intimate memorable dining experiences that sell out quickly. When Burton launched his first culinary boot camp in 2012 it became an immediate hit. Last year’s event sold out in just 23 hours and this year’s boot camp attracted a full roster. The intensive hands-on training class over the course of five days is designed especially for the passionate home cook seeking substance and technique.

Similar to a pop-up restaurant, monthly “Stella Underground” suppers offer an innovative twist on dinner. For example, on June 5, Burton’s hand rolled alkaline noodles – fine tuned after a full year of research and development – will be featured at Stella’s Ramen Underground, a laid back community style meal with vegetarian and vegan options. “Slurp, drink, and be merry,” invites Burton. On July 2, the theme will be American Classics Re-imagined.

Class offerings include demonstrations, lectures and hands-on experiences. During an upcoming lunch lecture, Mastering the Art of Sauce Making offered on May 30, Burton will teach about the three modern mother sauces.

“In classic sauce making you learn bases and memorize a bunch of archaic derivatives, but if you ever want to truly be the master of your sauce domain, creating your own unique sauces whenever the whim may strike, you need to take a technical approach,” explains Burton.

We know that excellent meals begin with excellent ingredients. On June 2, accompany Burton to the farmers market in Truckee to explore, taste and learn more about picking high quality produce then return to Stella, prepare lunch and feast during this hands-on class.

“Whether it’s a hands-on cooking class with Stella Culinary, guided wilderness escape through T3 Adventures or simply a carefree weekend exploring Tahoe’s stunning landscape, The Cedar House provides an organic and relaxed setting where life is always an adventure,” shares Patty Baird.

Does it get any better than hands-on cooking classes, underground dinner parties and creative custom dining? I think not. Visit stellaculinary.com or call The Cedar House at 530.582.5655 for details.