Foodstuff

In March, Bon Appetit reported that 70 percent of the students at the French Culinary Institute in New York City are former professionals (lawyers and doctors) looking for a career change. I asked Doreen Nordstrom-Moore, executive chef-owner of the newly opened Palm Beach School of Cooking (25 N.E. 2nd Ave., Delray Beach, 561-279-4707), if she thought the same was the case in South Florida. "Sure," she replied. "Look at me. I'm a trained clinical psychologist." But her school isn't necessarily for people looking for new careers. Rather, Nordstrom-Moore says her courses are for the "serious hobbyist." About ten students per class learn everything from basics such as knife-wielding techniques to making sushi. Upcoming classes include Pacific Rim cooking and cooking with children. Prices vary according to the course, so call for more information.