Braid & Brunch

A hands-on backyard brunch and beginner-friendly challah-braiding workshop led by the owners of New York Bagel Deli Mar Vista.

For this month's Cook Club, we're trying something a little different. Instead of our usual potluck format, we're getting hands-on and learning something new together.

Join us for an intimate workshop where Lenny and Adaeze will teach us how to make, customize, and braid challah. We'll also hear the story behind New York Bagel Deli Mar Vista, including Lenny and Adaeze's family baking heritage and their experience operating bakeries around New York and Los Angeles. With Rosh Hashanah just around the corner, we'll also explore the history, traditions, and cultural significance of challah.

During the workshop, we'll learn:

• how to portion and shape challah dough
• rolling and braiding techniques
• how to incorporate flavors and toppings
• how to proof and bake mini challahs
• the history and traditions behind challah

Each guest will receive two mini challah dough portions:

• one to braid and bake during the workshop
• one pre-portioned to take home with printed baking instructions

You'll be able to customize your challah with:

• cinnamon + raisins
• poppy seeds
• sesame seeds
• everything bagel seasoning
• flaky sea salt

While our challahs proof and bake, we'll enjoy coffee and a light brunch catered by New York Bagel Deli Mar Vista and flip through the drool-worthy pages of their baking book, It's A Sweet World Recipes From Around the Globe.

And if you fall in love with their story — or just really love cookbooks — you can purchase a copy and have it signed by the authors.

Space is limited. This event will take place in a private backyard in Los Angeles. Your spot will be confirmed once payment is received.

If your plans change and you're no longer able to attend, please update your RSVP as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.

One Rule: Come ready to get your hands in the dough!

Whether you're already comfortable in the kitchen or you've never braided challah before, this workshop is designed to be beginner-friendly, interactive, and fun.

11:00–11:30 AM

Guest arrival, check-in, coffee, and settling in.

11:30–12:30 PM

Welcome and introductions, followed by the story of New York Bagel Deli Mar Vista, Lenny and Adaeze's family baking heritage, and the history and cultural significance of challah. This will lead into the hands-on challah workshop covering portioning, rolling, braiding, flavor additions, and toppings.

12:30–1:30 PM

Enjoy a catered brunch, book signing, and conversation while our challah proofs and bakes.

1:30–2 PM

Raffle winner will be announced while we tear into our freshly baked challahs. Receive take-home baking instructions, professional photos, continue connecting, and leave with goodies in hand.