NEW: Private Cooking Class & Lowcountry Boil with Local Chef Clay

If you’re seeking a cooking experience that combines history, local culture, and delicious food, this private class with Chef Clay in Savannah might just be the perfect fit. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed description and reviews suggest it offers a genuine taste of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to learn how to make a classic Low Country Boil, an iconic dish packed with seafood, sausage, and corn, all cooked in one flavorful pot. Second, you’ll explore the historic home of Chef Clay, built in 1939, with stunning views of Tybee and nearby wildlife refuges. Lastly, this experience provides a personalized, intimate setting—ideal for those who want to dive deep into Southern cuisine at their own pace.

A potential consideration is that the experience is limited to a maximum of your group, which means it may not be suitable for those seeking a large tour or more structured group setting. Also, since it’s hosted in a family home with two dogs, animal lovers should be aware. This tour is perfect for food lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Savannah’s culinary roots.

Whether you’re visiting Savannah for a weekend or looking to add a memorable food experience to your trip, this private cooking class offers an authentic, relaxed way to connect with local traditions.

Good To Know

• Authentic experience: Learn to cook a true Southern dish in a private home setting.
• Personalized attention: Small-group or private tour means customized guidance from Chef Clay.
• Historic ambiance: The owner’s 1939 home offers picturesque views of marshlands and wildlife.
• Flexible dietary options: Vegetarian, seafood-free, gluten-free accommodations available if requested.
• Includes local history: Discover the Gullah roots behind the Low Country Boil.
• Enjoy a full meal: The cooking session ends with a sit-down feast, including wine or beer.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting at Chef Clay’s Historic Home

The tour begins at 702 Whippoorwill Rd, Savannah, a charming family residence built in 1939. From the start, the appeal lies in the opportunity to step into a real Savannah home, away from touristy restaurants, and into a slice of local life. The grounds offer impressive vistas of Tybee Island, Little Tybee, and Wassaw Wildlife Refuge, providing a tranquil and scenic backdrop.

Guests often remark that the house’s historic charm adds a special touch to the experience, making it more intimate and authentic than a typical cooking class. The home’s open-plan layout facilitates a relaxed learning environment, ideal for conversation and hands-on participation.

The Cooking Component

The heart of the tour is the cooking lesson, which lasts about 1.5 hours. Chef Clay guides you through crafting a Low Country Boil, a dish with roots in Gullah culture. This one-pot meal involves seafood, sausage, potatoes, and corn, seasoned with authentic spices. For those who prefer to skip seafood, an alternative Brunswick stew—a hearty, smoked pork-based dish—can be prepared.

Guests enjoy the chance to see each step—how to season the broth, prepare the seafood, and cook the vegetables—all while learning about the history behind the dish. Chef Clay’s approach is relaxed and friendly, making it easy for even novice cooks to follow along.

One reviewer notes that Clay’s explanations about the dish’s origins, especially its Gullah roots, added depth to the experience. The focus on local ingredients and traditions makes this more than just a cooking lesson; it’s a culture.

Dining and Atmosphere

After the cooking, everyone gathers around the dining table, either indoors or on the outdoor patio—ideal for weather permitting. The communal nature of the meal fosters great conversations and makes you feel like a guest in a friend’s home.

The meal includes the dishes you’ve just prepared, complemented by a seasonal dessert and a couple of glasses of wine or beer. Guests report that the food is abundant, flavorful, and comforting, truly capturing the essence of Southern cooking.

Dietary Considerations

Clay is willing to accommodate dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, seafood-free, and gluten-free options, provided you specify these when booking. This flexibility is a significant plus, especially for travelers with food allergies or preferences.

The Value

At $89 per person, this experience offers a lot for the price. You’re getting a private, hands-on cooking lesson, an intimate cultural experience, and a delicious meal—all in a historic setting. Compared to dining out, it offers a more personal and memorable way to enjoy Southern cuisine.

Practical Details

Duration and Timing

The experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it an easy addition to your day without feeling overly lengthy. The start time is flexible enough to fit into most itineraries.

Group Size and Privacy

Limited to your group, this tour ensures personalized attention. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll enjoy a tailored experience.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins at Chef Clay’s home in Savannah. Since it’s hosted in a private residence, transport is on your own, but the location is accessible and easy to find. The experience ends back at the starting point, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Booking and Cancellations

You can book well in advance—on average, 59 days ahead—with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. This flexibility allows you to plan without worry.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This private cooking class is ideal if you’re interested in more than just tasting food—you want to understand its roots, learn practical skills, and enjoy a genuine Southern atmosphere. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a personal touch, cultural stories, and fresh, homemade meals.

If you’re a fan of seafood, hearty stews, or simply want a cozy, authentic experience in Savannah, Chef Clay’s class offers a memorable way to connect with local traditions. And with the option to accommodate dietary restrictions, it’s accessible to a variety of guests.

The Sum Up

In essence, this Savannah-based private cooking class provides a rare opportunity to learn about and enjoy traditional Southern cuisine in a warm, personal setting. The combination of a historic home, scenic views, and a talented host like Chef Clay makes it stand out as a meaningful addition to your trip.

The experience is best suited for culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, or travelers looking for a relaxed, interactive way to dive into Savannah’s local food scene. The small-group or private format means you’ll receive focused attention, making it ideal for those who appreciate authenticity and detail.

If you want to leave Savannah with new skills, great stories, and a belly full of delicious food, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private experience?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention throughout.

How long does the cooking class last?
The culinary portion lasts about 1.5 hours, with the entire experience roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes including the meal.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Absolutely. Clay can accommodate vegetarian, seafood-free, gluten-free, and other dietary needs if informed during booking.

What’s included in the meal?
You’ll enjoy a Low Country Boil or Brunswick stew, along with a seasonal dessert and two glasses of wine or beer.

Is there outdoor seating?
Yes, weather permitting, you can dine outdoors on the patio, which offers scenic views of the marshlands.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for cooking is recommended. Expect to get a little messy, especially with seafood or stew.

Do I need to bring anything?
No, all ingredients and equipment are provided. Just bring your appetite and curiosity.

Are children welcome?
The tour is private, so children can join with prior arrangement, but it’s best suited for ages comfortable with cooking and small groups.

How do I book?
Booking can be done in advance, with confirmation provided immediately. Remember, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Anytime during the day is suitable; consider your schedule and weather if planning outdoor dining.

This private cooking class with Chef Clay offers a charming, tasty window into Savannah’s culinary soul—an experience that’s both fun and deeply satisfying.