September 15, 10:00 A.M. Kids Class: Storytime and Dumpling Class with Author Melissa Iwai and Chef Marian Laraia Presented by Google

Kids Storytime and Cooking Class Featuring the Award-Winning Author of Dumplings for Lili 

25 11th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA

Calling all kiddos and their grown-ups*: join celebrated cookbook and children’s book author and illustrator Melissa Iwai for a story time adventure and hands-on cooking class. Iwai will read several of her food-focused books, including Dumplings For Lili, and Pizza Day. She’ll also lead a dumpling craft project that children can take home with them.
Joining Iwai is Google food educator, chef Marian, who will lead the students in a hands-on cooking class featuring foods from Iwai's books including vegetarian wontons, Jamaican beef patties, and cheese raviolis. Attendees will have the opportunity to make (and eat) different types of dumplings eaten around the world.

Open to ages 4-12. All ingredients will be nut-free and there will be vegetarian options.

*Please note that tickets must be purchased for all children. Accompanying adults are invited to stay as escorts, but food is only offered for ticketed children. 

Coffee and water will be available at Platform, as well as food for purchase available in Market 57.

Books by Melissa Iwai will be available for purchase and signing.

General Admission: $25 

SOLD OUT

Join the Waitlist 

About Melissa Iwai: 
Melissa Iwai is an author and illustrator of children's books, based in Brooklyn, NY. She has illustrated over 30 books and is the author of Dumplings for Lili, Pizza Day, Soup Day, and many more. Her clients include Little Brown/Christy Ottaviano Books, Norton Young Readers, Henry Holt, Clarion Books, HMHCo, Viking, Scholastic, Harper Collins, Simon and Schuster, and Random House.

About Marian LaRaia: 
Chef Marian LaRaia is a food educator at Restaurant Associates, teaching and inspiring Google employees with culinary skills and knowledge for almost 8 years with a specialty in designing and delivering meaningful food education programs that align with Google’s culture and values.  With more than 25 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, LaRaia has been recognized for excellence and innovation in creating and executing diverse and inclusive menus, events, and workshops that showcase global cuisines and promote wellness and sustainability.  LaRaia is passionate about sharing her love of food and cooking with others and enjoys working with a talented and collaborative team at Restaurant Associates and Stephen Ritz, founder of Green Bronx Machine. 

Tickets to events held at Platform at Pier 57 by the James Beard Foundation cover the cost of food, education and a unique dining experience. Meals are prepared by culinary masters from all regions of the United States and around the world. Unless otherwise stated, alcoholic beverages are provided on a complimentary basis and are not included in the ticket price.

James Beard Foundation events permit guests age 21 years and older to attend events where alcoholic beverages are served.

Event Policy

Reservation Policy:

All reservations are non-refundable and must be made in advance. Should the event be cancelled due to any unforeseen circumstances, including COVID-19, JBF will offer a range of options, including ticket exchanges, the option to donate tickets, or a full refund. For more information, contact platformbyjbf@jamesbeard.org.

Alcohol Disclaimer:

James Beard Foundation events permit guests age 21 years and older to attend events where alcoholic beverages are served. 

Dietary/Food Restrictions Policy:

Events at Platform by JBF are special one-night-only menus and we do not offer a la carte menus. If you have serious food allergies, we will work with the visiting chef team to do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee that alternate options will be available for every course.