Chef Tanya Holland Presents 'New Soul' Cooking on June 7

She's profiled in this month's issue of O-The Oprah Magazine. She's talking barbecue in the San Francisco Chronicle. She's a pioneer of "New Soul" cuisine and she'll come to in Novato on Thursday, June 7.

In a benefit event from 6:30 to 9 p.m., Chef Tanya Holland will discuss her passion for melding fresh, local ingredients with her classical French training and the cuisine of her heritage. She'll also demonstrate a three-course menu:

•  Creole Shrimp with Basmati Rice
•  Cornmeal Crepes with Okra Ratatouille
•  Beignets with Chocolate Chicory Sauce

Her recipes come from her signature restaurant in Oakland, Brown Sugar Kitchen, which has received a Bib Gourmand recommendation from the Michelin Guide. She recently opened a second project, the B-Side BBQ in Oakland.

Chef Holland also can be seen on The Cooking Channel's "Melting Pot," and as a celebrity judge on TV One's new competition cooking show, "My Momma Throws Down."

As with all classes at Fresh Starts Cooking School, guests can ask questions and have a close-up view of the cooking. Tickets cost $49 and include dinner, with all proceeds designated to support job-training and shelter programs at Homeward Bound of Marin.

For tickets and more information, please visit Fresh Starts Cooking School online or call 415-382-3363 x243.