Hands-on food experiences at Houston's favorite places (Photos)

Hands-on cooking can be the best experience when the food and instruction are both creative and delicious.

Cooking classes

Cooking classes with renowned Haven restaurant chef, Randy Evans are a new addition to the foodie scene. His series of classes begin on January 27 and will continue through March 24. The themed classes will be held on three Sundays: January 27, February 10 and March 24 at 4 p.m. at Haven at 2502 Algerian Way.

The January 27 class is called Soup or Bowl and offer a hearty three course winter meal. On February 10, Evans will teach the perfect Mardi Gras meal. The March 24 class will create dishes to best take advantage of springtime in Texas. The cost is $60 per person. Paired wines will also be served.

The informal classes will all delve into the fun and flavors of the restaurant’s now famed “Modern Texas Cuisine.” Evans is the culinary pioneer who put a spotlight on the state’s remarkable diversity of cultural influences in the foods it produces - with the many contributions of the state's Vietnamese, Mexican, Acadian, German, Czech and Polish communities.

Space is limited for all the classes. To purchase a spot, call 713-581-6101.

Decorating cupcakes

CRAVE Cupcakes is introducing their Decorate Your Own Cupcake Party Packs where kids can bring the excitement of decorating home without the baking.

This fun interactive activity is perfect for any birthday party or group event. Each CRAVE party pack includes a dozen freshly-baked cupcakes along with frosting and edible decorations. Cupcakes are available in any combination of chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and red velvet flavors.

Also included is a design guide offering a step by step application for a list of styles that will help create the perfect cupcake. Customers also have the option of purchasing 12 premade cupcakes in a specific design for $60.

The recommended age for these CRAVE Party Packs is three years old and up. Party Packs are $50 each and available at both locations in Uptown and West University. Orders require a 24 hour advance notice and must be picked up in store. Details at 713-622-7283.

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, Houston City Buzz Examiner

Valerie Sweeten, a mother of four in her hometown, Houston, has over 20 years experience in the print media. Over the years, she has covered bios and features on everyone to award winners to burdgeoning businesses and up and coming notable people. Restaurants, chefs,artists, theatre and diverse...

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