Instructor: Candy Argondizza

Candy Argondizza
Biography: Candy Argondizza grew up in a close-knit Italian family where food was the center of every gathering. This led to her love of food and sharing of ideas. She began her career with a degree from the Culinary Institute of America and worked her way through many of New York City's finer restaurants. She has spent the last 17 years teaching and guiding future chefs at the helm of the International Culinary Center in NYC. There, she worked alongside and collaborated with many of the culinary world's best known chefs.

Candy has contributed to various cookbooks, is often sought for her advice and tips for food magazines, and has been featured at the James Beard House. She was also honored with Culinary Teacher of the Year by the International Association of Culinary Professionals.

She is excited to continue sharing her culinary knowledge and talents with all food lovers in Bend and Central Oregon. As an avid triathlete and accomplished runner, Candy feels right at home in the active Bend community.

Classes by this instructor


Fresh and French: Fish en Papillote
Discover one of the simplest and most elegant ways to prepare fresh fish:<b> en papillote</b>, the classic French technique of steaming fish in a parchment paper packet. In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to create perfectly cooked, moist and flavorful fish by sealing it with fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables and aromatic ingredients.
Saturday, September 26, 2026 | 10:00am-1:00pm PDT | Bend
Bring the flavors of Korea to your kitchen in this hands-on cooking class featuring Galbi, the beloved Korean BBQ dish made with thinly sliced beef marinated in a rich, savory-sweet sauce. You'll learn how to prepare the signature marinade, cook the beef to tender perfection and create a delicious meal served with fragrant jasmine rice and a variety of traditional banchan (Korean small plates). Along the way, you'll discover essential Korean cooking techniques, ingredient tips and flavor combinations that make this meal a favorite around the world. Leave with recipes, new skills and the confidence to recreate an authentic Korean-inspired dinner at home.
Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 10:00am-1:00pm PDT | Bend
Experience the fresh, vibrant flavors of Vietnam in this hands-on cooking class. You'll learn to prepare delicate Vietnamese fresh summer rolls filled with crisp vegetables and herbs, make a rich and creamy homemade peanut dipping sauce and create fragrant lemongrass chile chicken bursting with bright, savory flavors. Along the way, you'll discover essential techniques for working with rice paper, balancing sweet, salty, sour and spicy flavors and using traditional Vietnamese ingredients with confidence. Leave with authentic recipes, practical cooking skills and everything you need to recreate this fresh and flavorful Vietnamese meal at home.
Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 10:00am-1:00pm PDT | Bend
Gather around the table for a comforting Italian meal inspired by generations of family cooking. In this hands-on class, you'll prepare tender homemade meatballs, a rich and flavorful marinara sauce and classic eggplant Parmesan with layers of crispy eggplant, melted cheese and savory sauce. Along the way, you'll learn traditional techniques, ingredient tips and the secrets to building authentic Italian flavors from scratch. Whether you're looking to perfect family favorites or start new traditions, you'll leave with delicious recipes, practical skills and the confidence to recreate this hearty Italian feast at home.
Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend
Discover the bold, aromatic flavors of Thailand in this hands-on cooking class. You'll learn to prepare a fragrant Thai shrimp curry featuring creamy coconut milk, vibrant herbs and authentic Thai seasonings, along with a flavorful broccoli and tofu side dish served over fragrant jasmine rice. Along the way, you'll explore the balance of sweet, savory, spicy and tangy flavors that define Thai cuisine while gaining confidence using traditional ingredients and techniques. Leave with delicious recipes, practical cooking skills and everything you need to recreate this fresh and satisfying Thai-inspired meal at home.
Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend