Cranky Chef

03/09/2026

Part of our Signature Series Our “Italian Twists” Class

03/08/2026

Last week we had the pleasure of spending time with the Lake Gaston Gourmet Group for our “Italian Twists” cooking class, with a full room of 33 participants.

Together we explored a variety of techniques focused on building flavor and understanding the “why” behind cooking. During the class we worked through a classic béchamel mother sauce and demonstrated how one simple base can transform into multiple dishes — from a rich cheese sauce to a roasted garlic and sundried tomato cream sauce, to a warm spinach and artichoke dip. We also made a chef’d-up fresh pomodoro sauce and talked through techniques like blanching tomatoes and vegetables, roasting garlic and tomatoes to concentrate flavor, and properly finishing pasta with sauce and starchy pasta water.

Along the way we also squeezed in a quick lesson on something every home cook — and every chef — should know how to make: a classic vinaigrette. We put our own twist on it and made a roasted garlic, tomato, basil herb vinaigrette, showing how simple ingredients and the right ratios can create a versatile dressing for salads, vegetables, or finishing dishes.

The goal of our classes isn’t just to cook — it’s to teach and educate, sharing practical techniques, helpful tips and tricks, and a few chef hacks along the way that make cooking easier and more approachable at home. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or someone looking to refine your skills, we aim to create an environment where everyone can learn something new while having a great time.

The energy in the room was fantastic, and it was clear everyone enjoyed tasting, asking questions, and seeing how simple ingredients can be elevated with just a few techniques.

In addition to group classes like this, we also offer private cooking classes and personalized in-home experiences, perfect for small gatherings, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a more hands-on and tailored culinary experience.

A big thank you again to the Lake Gaston Gourmet Group for having us — we’re looking forward to the next one!

If you’d like to see more of what we’re doing or help support what we’re building, please visit our page and consider liking and following Cranky Chef for future classes, events, and culinary adventures.

— Chef Keith Weiss
Cranky Chef

02/22/2026

02/22/2026

Last weekend we had the pleasure of hosting our sold out Valentine’s Dinner at Lake Gaston Coffee Company, and what an incredible night it was.

We wanted to share a few behind-the-scenes moments and highlights from the evening. From the prep to the final plates, it was an honor to bring this menu to life and share it with such a great group of guests.

A huge thank you to Jason and Kirstin at Lake Gaston Coffee Companyy, and to Winston's Wine Shop and Bar, for their partnership and support in helping make the night so special.

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended. We had an amazing time, made some new friends, and truly enjoyed bringing The Cranky Chef experience to Lake Gaston.

We’re looking forward to many more meals in the Lake Gaston and surrounding areas — whether it’s future pop-up dinners, private in-home dining, intimate gatherings, full-service catering, or interactive cooking classes.

This is just the beginning.

—Chef Keith Weiss
Cranky Chef

02/21/2026

I’ve really enjoyed working alongside these students and helping them prepare for the Dinah Gore Cooking Competition. It’s great to see their passion and growth in the kitchen, and I’ve especially enjoyed mentoring the next generation of culinarians.
Thankful to be part of it.
– Chef Keith Weiss

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02/14/2026

Very excited to be able to put on this amazing event tonight at Lake Gaston Coffee Company and Winston’s Wine Shop !!! First of many events in Lake Gaston to Come !!!

01/03/2026

Just a snippet of some of the fun we have been having with , our new friends we have been making over the past events !!! More to come !

01/03/2026

“I’m a personal chef offering in-home dining experiences, private events, weddings, and full-service catering…”

Whether it’s an intimate dinner at home, a family cooking night, a wedding, or a large private event, everything I do is custom, chef-driven, and built around the people at the table.

If you’re looking for something more personal than traditional catering, this is exactly what I do.

12/29/2025

If your local or close to Oxford Nc - This is a new great place to check out - Fresh “scratch made Bagels “ great coffee and snacks , with many more items yet to come - it doesn’t get much fresher than that ! Support Local Businesses

09/07/2025

🔥👨‍🍳 Private chef. Restaurant-quality meals. In your kitchen. Book Cranky Chef today!

09/07/2025

🔥👨‍🍳 Why settle for crowded restaurants when you can have your own private chef at home? Cranky Chef brings restaurant-quality meals, fun, and flavor straight to your kitchen. Book today and make your next night unforgettable!

08/28/2025

🍽️✨ Try something new — bring Cranky Chef into your kitchen and enjoy a “night out” without ever leaving home!