Mary Zupke

The Garden Plate is a children’s cooking education brand founded by Mary Zupke, MS, RDN, LDN, FAN, a dietitian, mother, and teacher of simple cooking techniques. Its mission is to help children discover that healthy cooking can be easy, enjoyable, and delicious, while encouraging nutritious cooking as a lifelong hobby. The Garden Plate offers kids’ cooking classes and summer cooking camps, along with age-appropriate kitchen utensils and education to help young cooks build practical skills.

Families can explore recipes, book classes and events, and find birthday party options. Classes are hosted at a range of local locations, including park districts and community partners such as Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia, and Elgin Park Districts, Primrose Farm, Fox Den Cooking, and Rising Lights Project.

The organization also invites community members to volunteer and highlights its collaborations and class offerings online. By bringing together hands-on cooking instruction and a focus on healthy food, The Garden Plate aims to make learning in the kitchen accessible and engaging for children