Join us for a hands-on class where you'll learn how to make okonomiyaki—a savory Japanese cabbage pancake whose name means “grilled as you like it.”

 Because there are so many variations, this dish is endlessly customizable. In this beginner-friendly class, we’ll guide you through a classic version topped with pork belly, green onions, and bonito flakes.

Perfect for home cooks of any skill level, this 3-hour session will include step-by-step instruction, cultural insights, and time to enjoy your finished creation. All ingredients will be provided. A small list of common kitchen utensils will be sent to participants ahead of time.

Class Size: Limited to 10 participants
Skill Level: Beginner-friendly

Allergy Info: This recipe involves egg, gluten, and fish. It is unfortunately not vegan/vegetarian friendly, but we hope to have more classes that are in the future! 

About the Teacher: 

The class will be led by David Swanstrom, a former career restaurant worker with experience as a sushi chef and avid home cook.

David Swanstrom is a Colorado Springs native with a Bachelor of Arts in Japanese Language and Culture from the University of Colorado Boulder. He lived in Abiko, Chiba Prefecture from 2016 to 2017, where he taught English and immersed himself in daily Japanese life and cuisine. His passion for Japanese food was further cultivated during his four years at a local sushi restaurant, where he worked as a server, floor manager, and sushi chef. In that role, he developed a deep understanding of seasonal ingredients and traditional preparation methods, often guiding customers through the intricacies of the menu and special ingredients that came weekly direct from Japan.

One of David’s earliest and most memorable experiences in Japan was making okonomiyaki with new friends at a local okonomiyaki-ya, where the savory pancakes were grilled right at the table. He brings that same spirit of hands-on cultural exchange to his classes. David is an active member of the Japan-America Society of Southern Colorado, where he supports events that promote cross-cultural understanding. Though no longer in the restaurant industry, David continues to share his love of Japanese cooking and its vibrant presentation, and he looks forward to teaching participants how to make delicious okonomiyaki at home.

The class is $30 for members, and $40 for non-members. To become a member, click here.  If you are already a member, please log in to access member pricing. 

JASSC will provide all ingredients and eating utensils, but participants must bring most of their own cooking supplies. Please see additional event information below.