Overview
The Natural Epicurean Academy of Culinary Arts was founded in 1994 by Elizabeth Ann Foster, a certified macrobiotic counselor, as the realization of her vision of advancing the appreciation and practice of natural, whole foods cooking in the Southwest.
That vision is carried forward by the Academy's owner, Dawn Black, an experienced teacher and natural whole foods and macrobiotic chef, who serves as Director and head instructor. With culinary training in France and the United States, Dawn brings a uniquely comprehensive perspective to the art of natural, whole foods cooking.
Mission
Our Mission is to educate and empower people to make healthy lifestyle choices that enhance and bring balance to their lives and to encourage them to build a community to continue this mission.
We develop graduates who have mastery of whole foods selection, preparation, and presentation; an intuitive understanding of the energetic nature of food; and an appreciation of nutrition's effect on health and disease. We emphasize a holistic approach to cooking which incorporates practical technique, personal artistry, attitude, seasonality, and mindfulness. Classes are small, with a maximum of 20 students, ensuring a friendly atmosphere conducive to learning.
