Although Chef Stephen went to school for audio engineering, food and cooking were a deep passion. He was inspired to become a chef almost three decades ago when his girlfriend Jennifer (and now wife) told him, "You are doing a great disservice to the world if you don't become a chef." He proceeded to get a degree in the culinary arts and has worked in fine dining restaurants for most of his career. Stephen and Jennifer moved to La Quinta to be closer to family where he now works as a personal chef. Chef Stephen enjoys imparting his culinary knowledge with people and is looking forward to sharing pro chef tricks and stories from being in the industry for several years. The experience he offers is perfect for a corporate or team-building event!
Please note menu might vary. If there are particular dishes you are interested in trying, please include your request in the booking form.
In-home meal: (2-8 guests) COOKING CLASS + BRUNCH: Meet Chef Stephen at his home in La Quinta for a hands-on Palm Springs brunch cooking class. Start with fresh-squeezed seasonal juice and a snack as he shares stories about his culinary journey. In his modern kitchen, learn chef tips and tricks while preparing a brunch menu through a mix of hands-on cooking and demonstration. A sample menu includes coffee cake, yogurt parfait, roasted vegetable and goat cheese strata, artisan bacon or sausage, and Yukon Gold potatoes O’Brien. Once the cooking is done, sit down to enjoy your creations with freshly brewed coffee and mimosas, followed by a sweet lemon-lime bar. Jennifer, Chef Stephen’s wife, may also join you for the experience when available.
Cooking experience:
(2-8 guests)
COOKING CLASS + LUNCH/DINNER: Meet your host Chef Stephen at his home in La Quinta for your hands-on, Palm Springs cooking class. Sip on a refreshing drink and snacks as your host shares stories about being a chef. Then join him in his kitchen, a newly renovated, contemporary space. Learn to cook a Southwestern-inspired seasonal meal during your cooking class that is a combination of some hands-on cooking and a cooking demonstration. A very encouraging chef, Chef Stephen is great at sharing chef tips and tricks including how to plate your meal. You will learn to cook three courses during your cooking lesson and demonstration that lasts about 1.5 hours. After the cooking is done, you will sit down at the table to share the Southwestern meal you helped prepare with Chef Stephen (and his wife Jennifer when she is available). Beer or wine is included in the cost of your experience. This customizable Palm Springs culinary experience is ideal for date nights, families or small groups. Chef Stephen can accommodate gluten-free, lactose-free, vegetarian, vegan diets and kosher diets.
If you're interested in this experience for your corporate or team building event in Palm Springs, please book the "Palm Springs Corporate Team-Building Cooking Class" experience instead.
Notes:
1. Chef Stephen can accommodate dietary restrictions so if you have any dietary requests, please make sure to include it when you create your booking.
2. Please note that the Meal Only experience includes a cooking class and brunch.
Languages spoken: English
Chef Stephen is just amazingly talented and creative! This is my second time taking his cooking class and both times have been amazing!- rachel May 07, 2026
Chef Stephen was so personable, knowledgeable and fun. Our Southwestern lunch time cooking class was really enjoyable. We watched him make 3 delicious dishes as we sipped on our margaritas as he gave us good tips and tricks every step of the way. I am already planning when I am going to make Carolita’s margarita ice box cake for my friends when I get home. Chef Stephen’s passion and cooking skills made for a memorable birthday activity.- chris March 06, 2026
Chef Stephen was so personable, knowledgeable and fun. Our Southwestern lunch time cooking class was really enjoyable. We watched him make 3 delicious dishes as we sipped on our margaritas as he gave us good tips and tricks every step of the way. I am already planning when I am going to make Carolita’s margarita ice box cake for my friends when I get home. Chef Stephen’s passion and cooking skills made for a memorable birthday activity.- chris March 06, 2026
We had a delicious meal with Chef Stephen and learned some new techniques food pairing. Chef has a lovely kitchen and is very personable. Would definitely recommend.- obin January 04, 2026
We had such a wonderful experience with The Traveling Spoon and Chef Stephen. Visiting his home felt warm and welcoming from the moment we arrived. The meal was absolutely delicious, and we loved learning a few cooking tips along the way that we’ll definitely use at home. After preparing the dishes together, we sat down and enjoyed a relaxed and tasty dinner with Chef Stephen. It was personal, fun, and truly memorable. Highly recommend!- Kim November 08, 2025
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