Chattanooga, August 21, 2025
News Summary
The Sweet and Savory Classroom in Chattanooga is commemorating its 10th anniversary this year. Co-owned by chefs Jeff and Heather Pennypacker, the culinary school has become a favorite spot for food lovers of all ages. With a range of classes and a warm environment, it encourages students to develop culinary skills and enjoy cooking together, whether in person or online.
Chattanooga Celebrates a Decade of Culinary Education at The Sweet and Savory Classroom
The Sweet and Savory Classroom, a culinary school located in downtown Chattanooga, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Owned by husband and wife chefs Jeff and Heather Pennypacker, the school has established itself as a beloved educational institution for food enthusiasts of all ages.
Founded at 45 E. Main Street, Suite 112, The Sweet and Savory Classroom features an industrial-style kitchen equipped with standing-height wooden tables and home-style ovens. With a relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of a large home kitchen, the facility accommodates about 30 individuals for each class, which typically lasts three hours. Classes are designed to be interactive, hands-on, and immersive. Participants can watch, learn, engage, and enjoy the meals they prepare.
The school offers a diverse range of classes, including date night sessions, parent-child cooking opportunities for kids aged five and up, and cooking camps aimed at children eight years and older. In addition, the school hosts group events, perfect for friends and company gatherings. The Sweet and Savory Classroom has also expanded its reach with online classes, providing step-by-step instructions for specific recipes.
Culinary Expertise of the Owners
Jeff Pennypacker, who runs the Sweet and Savory Classroom, is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University, where he earned top honors in his class. He has an impressive background as the chef at the renowned Biltmore Estate, where he honed his culinary skills for seven years. Jeff has been passionate about cooking since he was 16. Meanwhile, Heather Pennypacker has experience as a pastry chef at the Historic Grove Park Inn, bringing her own expertise in creating delectable desserts to the classroom.
The couple, who are parents to four daughters, manage to create not just a school but a familial atmosphere where students are encouraged to develop essential kitchen skills. Many young participants return home equipped with new knowledge, often cooking for their parents.
Diverse Class Offerings
The Sweet and Savory Classroom provides a range of culinary classes designed for both adults and children. Upcoming workshops include fall cooking camps for kids and special holiday workshops during the Christmas season. Parents and their children can participate in weekend classes together, fostering quality time in the kitchen.
Among the various recipes taught, participants can learn to prepare complex dishes such as Beef Wellington, Thai Curry, Chicago Deep Dish pizza, as well as classic cookies, cakes, pastries, and traditional Mexican food. Classes also include specialized programs like “Homeschool Essentials,” which focus on teaching specific recipes along with foundational cooking skills, including knife proficiency.
The class schedule accommodates different lifestyles and preferences, offering weekday daytime sessions, evening classes, and weekend options to ensure accessibility for all interested individuals.
Conclusion
As The Sweet and Savory Classroom marks its ten-year milestone, it continues to inspire and excite future chefs, both young and old. With its comprehensive classes and passionate instructors, the culinary school stands as a significant contributor to Chattanooga’s vibrant community and food culture.
FAQ
What types of classes does The Sweet and Savory Classroom offer?
The Sweet and Savory Classroom offers various classes including date night sessions, parent-child cooking classes, cooking camps for kids, group events, and online cooking classes.
Where is The Sweet and Savory Classroom located?
The Sweet and Savory Classroom is located at 45 E. Main Street, Suite 112 in downtown Chattanooga.
Who are the owners of The Sweet and Savory Classroom?
The Sweet and Savory Classroom is owned by husband and wife chefs Jeff and Heather Pennypacker.
How long do the classes last?
Most classes at The Sweet and Savory Classroom last approximately three hours.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 45 E. Main Street, Suite 112, Chattanooga |
| Owners | Chefs Jeff and Heather Pennypacker |
| Class Capacity | Up to 30 students per class |
| Class Duration | Approximately 3 hours |
| Class Types | Date night, parent-child, kids’ cooking camps, online classes, group events |
| Age Range | Classes available for ages 5 and up |
| Special Offers | Fall camps, Christmas workshops, homeschool essentials |
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Additional Resources
- Chattanooga Pulse: Enjoy a Sweet and Savory Experience in Downtown Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Things to Do in the Chattanooga Area This Week
- News Channel 9: Enhance Your Culinary Skills with Engaging Classes
- Times Free Press: Chattanooga’s Classes for Adults
- Nooga Today: YMCA Test Kitchen in Chattanooga
- Wikipedia: Culinary School
- Google Search: Culinary Education
- Google Scholar: Culinary Classes
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Culinary Arts
- Google News: Culinary Education Chattanooga
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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