Following rich careers in world-class kitchens, Chef Jeff Pennypacker and his wife Heather arrived in Chattanooga in their RV ten years ago. Since their arrival, they’ve opened the Sweet and Savory Classroom and grown it into a culinary destination for all ages. Together they bring more than 40 years of culinary and leadership experience to the Scenic City.
Sweet and Savory Classroom offers a hands-on, approachable way to connect over a shared love of food and drink. Each class walks participants through essential techniques by preparing a themed meal together. Every step is clearly demonstrated and easy to follow, making it accessible for all ages. At the end, participants enjoy their creations, take home leftovers, and leave with new skills and stories to share.
“We place a high value on love and making people feel welcome,” Chef Jeff says. “We want everyone to come learn something and be happy doing it.”
Classes are open to both kids and adults. Parent/Child sessions—like mastering cinnamon rolls or handmade pasta—offer a fun way to bond in the kitchen. The experience also makes for memorable team-building, perfect for companies seeking a creative spin on professional development.
While food is the heart of every class, Sweet and Savory Classroom is just as much about connection. Chef Jeff and his team center their work on faith, hospitality, and making everyone feel welcome. Kindness, respect, and a spirit of community shape each class, often leaving guests with more than just a great meal and new skills.
“We care deeply about relationships,” Chef Jeff says. “We want people to learn to cook and get better. But we also want them to have bonding time, a special date night, and deepen their connections. That’s what brings us so much joy.”
From staple techniques to worldly cuisines, explore some of Sweet & Savory Classroom’s most popular classes:
- French Classical: Dive into what many chefs consider the foundation of modern cooking.
- New Orleans: Jazz up your next dinner with Chicken and Sausage Gumbo, Shrimp and Grits, and Beignets.
- Hand-Tossed Neapolitan Pizza: Learn to make, knead, and toss your own crust and top it with homemade tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella.
- French Macarons: Master the skills to achieve perfectly crisp and light French sandwich cookies. A true delicacy!
- Black & Blue: A perfect date night, learn the “Pittsburgh style” of cooking a filet mignon steak, along with a fresh green salad and indulgent creme brulee.