THe Journey Into Teaching-
In 2006 I had been the Chef/GM of Yabbies Coastal Kitchen in San Fransico for two years and in profession kitchens since 1985. A non profit called Cooking Matters was asking working chefs and nutritionists to volunteer time to teach a six week cooking/nutrition course to families. The cookbook was produced by the government. I reviewed the book and asked if I could create my own based on technique, in place of single recipes in the government cookbook. I had always “tried” to eat healthy but knew only a little about nutrition. Through the years the classes and insight on nutrition have evolved. My goal is to share what I have learned and experience has taught me. Few things in this life give me as much joy as being in a kitchen cooking with and for others.
The foundation of Ironwood American Bistro is to be beneficial to the community we are in and beyond. We aspire to cultivate the best of human qualities by the way we engage in our community.
Phone
808-383-1033
Mailing Address
131 Sunset Ave ste E #143
Suisun City, CA 94585
Class Location
Located in Cooking Class Schedule
"I cook because of the intimate connection that it creates with people; few interactions come close to that."
- Chef Megan Smith 2006
The Story of Ironwood-
One special day in 2012, I was on a drive with my Dad who lived on Oahu, when I asked about the occasional evergreen trees that looked out of place amongst the tropical plants. He told me they were Ironwood trees, not indigenous to Hawaii; I was curious and taken by their beauty. With a little research I discovered the trees are not invasive but rather are beneficial to where they grow; improving soil quality, bearing edible fruit and providing wood great for cooking and building. That would be the foundation of Ironwood American Bistro.
It has been quite the journey since that day. So much has happened and thank you so much for being part of it with me. For more than 10 years I had the wonderful opportunity to be part of your lives. All the special moments as well as everyday ones. It has been such a gift. Lots of change. They say the only constant in life is change. Ironwood is no longer located at 203 Main Street in Suisun City and that has been bitter sweet. But I am excited for the future and all that it holds.
Cooking has been the driving force in my life, for forty years I have worked in professional kitchens. It has afforded opportunities and wonderful experiences. Before Covid I was teaching on Saturday mornings from 10am til noon. Teaching has always brought me purpose and joy I am fortunate to be able to continue that. My goal is to deliver an understanding of ingredients and cooking techniques that are easily utilized. Time, budget and wellness are key factors. Below is the current cooking class schedule.
CHEF MEGAN SMITH
Chef Owner Megan Smith has been working in professional kitchens across the country since age 15. She has competed in the American Culinary Federation team hot food competitions winning gold and silver medals at regionals and nationals (1999), had her recipes in Bon Appetit (2005) and was featured on the Food Network when she was executive chef at FISH (2010). She is committed to sourcing product that is good for the community.
Culinary Class Schedule.
Classes are based on technique with recipes to show case the skills to be taught. Food safety, kitchen economy, flavor development and knife skills. Call for further details or to book a class. 808-383-1033
Class minimum 8 students, maximum 12 students. $75 per class per student. Classes are demonstration in kitchen so students may be immersed in instruction while asking questions and taking notes. Students must be registered for class to attend.
April 17th Thurs 6-8pm (class postponed) Brown Butter Cake, Strawberries, Rhubarb & Fresh Whipped Cream. Using a sugar substitute and the beauty of brown butter. Small changes lead to overall success. **Class taught at Joe Nelson Center, Suisun City
April 24th Thurs 6-8pm Scallops & Grits, Asparagus, Porcini Cream Sauce. Cooking seafood, blanching/ shocking vegetables and sauce making. **Class taught at Joe Nelson Center, Suisun City
May 22nd Thurs 6-8pm Chicken Paillard, Quinoa, Spinach & Marsala Pan Sauce- One of Ironwood’s favorite specials. Simple, economical and nutritious. **Class taught at Joe Nelson Center, Suisun City
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