Get it while it's Haute: Commander's Palace chef cooking up lessons

The secrets behind the cuisine at Commander’s Palace are becoming few now that the restaurant has a cookbook out and executive chef Danny Trace is showcasing his techniques for fans of his Haute Creole cooking with southern and Floribbean flare with Saturday cooking lessons.

“It’s an invitation to our locals to jump in the kitchen with me and my staff and learn what Commander’s cooking is all about,” Trace said.

Classes are complimentary and will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturdays throughout the month of January and on Feb. 7 at Commander’s Palace at HarborWalk Village.

“This week we are focusing on the blue crab and vegetable soup, a Florida strawberry salad and some herb roasted local shrimp,” Trace told The Log.

He said that upcoming lessons will have light, heart healthy options and teach some of the jazz brunch menu.

All of Trace’s creations will be complimented by bar chef Mike Richmond of The On the Rocks Bar. Richmond will teach attendees how to hand-craft cocktails like a pro.

“We are kind of playing off one another,” Trace said.

Donations will be taken at the cooking classes to benefit Destin Harvest, a charity that is devoted to feeding the area’s less fortunate.

“It’s a new program and it’s something that we really believe in, feeding the homeless and the elderly,” Trace said.

Reservations are recommended and may be made by calling (850) 337-8555.

Want to learn to cook like a pro?
Commander’s Palace is offering a free cooking class today at 3 p.m. Call 337-8555 to reserve a spot.