Chef Sergio Lara Joins The Culinary Center Full-Time
The Culinary Center of Kansas City is thrilled to announce that Chef Sergio Lara has rejoined our team as a full-time in-house instructor. After years of enriching our community through part-time teaching, Chef Sergio returned in November 2025 to focus on leading cooking classes and private events.
A Culinary Journey Comes Full Circle
Chef Sergio’s relationship with The Culinary Center runs deep. He began his journey with us as a Sous Chef, learning under the guidance of his twin sister, Chef Vicky Lara. His talent and passion for teaching soon led him to become an instructor, where he delighted students with his expertise in international cuisines—from Italian and Greek to Chinese and Mexican.
After leaving to explore other culinary opportunities, Chef Sergio spent several years as Executive Chef at The Farmer’s House, an organization that provides innovative community-based programs for youth and adults with developmental disabilities. This experience deepened his commitment to making cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
What Makes Chef Sergio Special
With more than 20 years of professional kitchen experience spanning senior living communities, country clubs, hotels, and fine dining restaurants, Chef Sergio brings a wealth of knowledge to every class. But what truly sets him apart is his gift for breaking down complex cooking techniques into simple, approachable steps that give students confidence in the kitchen.
“We couldn’t be more excited to have Chef Sergio back full-time,” says Heather DeFeo Minor, General Manager of The Culinary Center of Kansas City. “Our guests consistently praise his teaching style and warm personality. Having him here to teach classes and private events is a tremendous addition to our team.”
Join Chef Sergio in the Kitchen
With over 500 cooking classes offered each year, The Culinary Center of Kansas City provides opportunities for home cooks of all skill levels to learn, have fun, and share a delicious meal together. Now, students can once again experience Chef Sergio’s expertise and welcoming approach to culinary education.
Check out a full view of Chef Sergio’s upcoming classes. Some of his upcoming classes include:
- “Masa Magic: The Art of Tamales” on Thursday, 11/20/25 at 6:00pm.
- “Cook Like A Wok Star: Pan-Asian Classics” on Friday, 11/21/2025 at 6:30pm.
- “Homestyle Mexican: Traditional Dishes from the Heart of the Kitchen” on Friday, 11/28/2025 at 6:30pm.
Published: Nov. 13, 2025
ABOUT THE CULINARY CENTER OF KANSAS CITY
Founded in 1996, The Culinary Center of Kansas City is the Midwest’s premier culinary arts center dedicated to food, wine, and culinary education. Located in a historic restored buggy barn in downtown Overland Park, Kansas, the CCKC offers cooking classes, interactive events, private dining experiences, team-building programs, and a curated Kitchen Shop. For more information, visit kcculinary.com or call 913-341-4455.
Contact: Darren Palmet, Co-owner of The Culinary Center of Kansas City | 913-341-4455 | darren@kcculinary.com
