Hands-On -- Thanitra Pichedvanichok (second from right above) who goes by "T," teaches a class of Front Street business people the fine culinary art of rolling the dough to make chorizo empanadas. They are, from left, Rod Wilson, Sherri LeVan, Ann Wilson, and Peter Grimes. In the photo below, Erica Bartman, of Ladera Ranch, prepares ingredients for a coffee cream anglaise sauce.

The doors of Tspoons, a unique culinary experience, are now open.

Created by Thanitra Pichedvanichok who goes by "T," a personal chef who wanted to bring food and fun together in an intimate setting, Tspoons is an interactive "hands-on" cooking school located at 6 Gilly Flower in the Front Street Business District off Sienna Boulevard in Ladera Ranch.

From the moment the class titled "Romantic Dinners for Two with Wine Pairing" began, the eight participants knew they were in for a great night.

Guest Chef Daniel Mattos assisted the two groups of four as they prepared Osso Buco and a Pinot Noir demi glace, grilled vegetables with butternut squash puree and tamarind sauce in homemade pastry tartlet, and an amazing dessert of flourless chocolate cake with coffee cream anglaise sauce.

"T" made sure that wine glasses were filled and that everyone was having a wonderful time.

The sizzle of the pans and the aroma from the ovens were incredible and it wasn’t hard to truly enjoy oneself in the beautifully appointed working kitchen and expert help all around!

When the meal was ready, the participants sat down around the stainless steel island for a gourmet dinner, each course served with a specially chosen wine.

Chef Mattos entertained with a brief cooking demonstration and answered questions that had come up during the evening.

As the last bite was eaten, all agreed that this was definitely an experience to look forward to again.

The calendar of classes at Tspoons are taught by different guest chefs on a variety of topics, such as sauces and marinades, dinners for families, sushi, and more.

Since each class is limited to eight people, early registration is a must. The classes are for individuals, couples, and groups. All classes are hands-on interactive, and are excellent for team-building events and group meetings.

The classes also make wonderfully creative gifts for newlyweds, for couples celbrat-ing anniversaries, as awards for good work, and . . . well, you name it.

"T" has succeeded in creating an intimate setting in which one can enjoy a culinary experience while making new friends. Cheers to Tspoons!

For more information, go to www.tspoons.com.