What happens when you combine curious Club members, talented local chefs, and a little creativity in the kitchen? You get “The Yummy Kitchen,” the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County’s student-led cooking show that blends culinary exploration with hands-on technology skills.

Over the last several months,The Yummy Kitchen traveled beyond the Club walls for three special episodes featuring three beloved local establishments: Talula’s in Asbury Park, Cardinal Provisions in Asbury Park, and The Chocolate Bar in Little Silver. Each location welcomed our members with open arms, generously sharing their time and passion for their craft.

At The Chocolate Bar, Club members worked alongside Mr. Neil and Ms. Mindy to learn the art of chocolate making, including the techniques behind dipping and creating delicious treats. At Talula’s, members joined Shanti in the kitchen to make their own heart-shaped pizzas while learning about the care and craftsmanship that goes into creating a memorable meal. At Cardinal Provisions, Laura guided members through making chicken and waffles while sharing lessons about professional kitchen etiquette, food preparation, and the importance of teamwork.

Beyond the recipes, each experience gave our members a glimpse into the skills and dedication required to work in the culinary world. They learned about kitchen safety, hygiene, communication, and the importance of attention to detail. Behind the camera, members also developed valuable technology skills, including proper lighting, microphone placement, and on-camera presentation.

Yummy Kitchen is hosted by Monmouth County local, celebrity chef, and Boys & Girls Club volunteer Casey Webb, best known for his work on Man v. Food. Under the direction of the Club’s Technology Director Henri Lee, members are learning that creativity, confidence, and technical skills can come together to tell a story.

We are grateful to Shanti, Laura, Neil, Mindy, and the teams at Talula’s, Cardinal Provisions, and The Chocolate Bar for opening their kitchens and sharing their expertise with our members. Their generosity helped our kids discover new interests, build confidence, and see the possibilities that await them.