Nurturing Future Chefs
At Panhandle Kids Kitchen, we believe that cooking is more than just preparing meals—it's a valuable life skill. Our hands-on cooking classes for children in Amarillo are designed to teach essential kitchen skills, inspire creativity, and promote healthy eating habits. We cater to young learners by providing them with the tools they need to explore their culinary interests while having fun. Our goal is to help children build confidence in the kitchen while also creating delicious and nutritious recipes that they can share with family and friends.
Meet the Chefs
Head Chef
Mackenzie Wesson
Mackenzie earned her Bachelor of Science in Child Development from The University of Texas at Austin in 2013. She later moved to Seattle to study at Seattle Culinary Academy. Before graduating, she secured an internship at Canlis—one of Seattle’s most renowned restaurants—and was hired full-time. After the birth of her son, Ford, Mackenzie launched a remodeling company before returning to her Texas roots. Panhandle Kids Kitchen grew out of her longtime passion for helping children learn to cook with confidence and independence.
Sous Chef
Christopher Picerno
Chris was born and raised in New Jersey, where his love for cooking first began. Growing up in a culturally diverse area, he developed an appreciation for many different cuisines, especially Italian. After graduating from high school, Chris joined the United States Army and served four years on active duty. After relocating to Amarillo, he began working as the head chef at his family’s restaurant. Chris is also a fitness enthusiast who believes strongly in healthy eating and cooking with real, whole ingredients, bringing his culinary experience and passion for food to everything he does.
Info
Registration
Parents can easily register their kids for our cooking classes through our user-friendly online portal, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Classes
We offer a wide range of classes focused on various cuisines and cooking techniques, providing children with the opportunity to learn and experiment in the kitchen.
Safety
Safety is our top priority; our classes emphasize safe cooking practices to ensure that kids learn in a secure and supportive environment.
Team
Meet the Instructors
Culinary Experts
Our team consists of culinary experts with extensive experience in both cooking and teaching. They are passionate about sharing their love of food with children and nurturing a new generation of aspiring chefs.
Creative Mentors
Each instructor brings a unique approach to teaching, focusing on creativity, technique, and the joy of cooking. They strive to make every class an engaging and educational experience.
Supportive Guides
With a commitment to fostering a positive learning environment, our instructors guide and encourage children to explore their culinary talents while ensuring they feel safe and supported.