Join us for a cooking class that features both technique and hands on learning when possible

Learn the art of home cooking in a warm, intimate setting. Join us for hands-on cooking experiences that celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques.

Beautiful Cottage Kitchen

Our Cooking Classes

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International Cuisine

Explore flavors from around the world with authentic recipes and techniques from diverse culinary traditions.

3 hours $85
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Italian Pasta and Sauces

Master the art of fresh pasta making and learn to create authentic Italian sauces from scratch.

3 hours $85
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Holiday Cooking

Create memorable holiday dishes and special occasion meals that bring families together.

3 hours $85
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Appetizers

Learn to create elegant appetizers and small plates perfect for entertaining and special occasions.

2.5 hours $85
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Desserts

Master sweet endings with classic and contemporary dessert techniques, from chocolate to pastries.

3 hours $85
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Bread

Discover the art of bread making, from rustic sourdoughs to artisan loaves using traditional methods.

3 hours $85
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Baking

Perfect your baking skills with cakes, cookies, pastries, and other sweet and savory baked goods.

3 hours $85
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Seasonal

Cook with the seasons, featuring fresh ingredients and recipes that celebrate each time of year.

2.5 hours $85

📅 Available Classes

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Available Classes

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What to Expect in Our Classes

Our intimate cooking environment: We keep our classes small and focused, which means we work with set menus and ingredients to ensure everyone has the best learning experience. If you have dietary concerns, feel free to reach out and we'll do our best to help! We occasionally need to adjust class sizes, and if that happens, we'll always take care of you with a full refund or rescheduling.

Flexible Booking Options

  • 7+ days ahead: Full refund, no questions asked! 😊
  • 3-7 days ahead: Happy to reschedule or provide 50% credit
  • Last minute: We understand life happens - let's chat about options

Meet Chef Brian Averna

Nationally Renowned Culinary Expert & Food Innovation Pioneer

Chef Brian Averna
Executive Chef
Culinary Institute of America

A Culinary Journey of Excellence

Brian Averna is a nationally renowned culinarian and food innovation expert with decades of experience across culinary arts, R&D, marketing, and media.

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Media & TV

As Sara Lee's Senior Executive Chef, Brian appeared on major networks including The Today Show, Rachael Ray, Paula Deen, ESPN, MSNBC, NPR, ABC, CBS, and Fox & Friends.

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World Record Achievement

In 2005, Brian was the architect of the World's Largest Birthday Cake weighing 132,000 pounds for Las Vegas' 100th birthday celebration.

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Food Innovation

Created dozens of food innovations served at America's largest chains including Sam's Club, IHOP, Burger King, Dunkin', Panera, Costco, and many more.

From Corporate Innovation to Cottage Cooking

Brian's culinary foundation began at The Culinary Institute of America, where he mastered classical techniques and developed his deep understanding of flavor profiles. His education was further enriched through extensive food travels across diverse culinary landscapes, from European kitchens to Asian markets, providing him with the expertise to innovate while staying connected to America's evolving palates.

During his corporate years, Brian shaped the American food landscape through groundbreaking innovations at Sara Lee Corporation. His creations reached millions of consumers through major food chains nationwide, while his media appearances on shows like The Today Show, Rachael Ray, and Paula Deen brought his expertise into American homes. This unique combination of large-scale food production knowledge and intimate culinary artistry set him apart in the industry.

After a distinguished corporate career spanning decades, Brian made a meaningful transition to teaching at local Connecticut cooking institutions, where he discovered his passion for sharing culinary knowledge with eager food enthusiasts. His teaching style combines professional techniques with accessible home cooking methods, making even complex dishes approachable for home cooks.

Today, Brian has opened Cottage Cooking in New Haven, CT — an intimate, hands-on cooking studio where he shares his love of both savory and baked goods with students of all ages and skill levels. The studio represents the perfect marriage of his corporate innovation experience and his passion for traditional, home-style cooking, creating a unique learning environment where students can master both fundamental techniques and creative culinary expression.

Professional Highlights

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Senior Executive Chef
Sara Lee Corporation
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Graduate
Culinary Institute of America
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Multiple TV Appearances
Today Show, Rachael Ray & More
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Food Innovations
Served Nationwide

Get in Touch

Location

Cottage Kitchen Studio
New Haven, CT

Contact

Email: brianwaverna@gmail.com
Phone: (203) 545-9969

Hours

Classes by appointment
Tuesday - Saturday
10am - 8pm

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