Culinary Retreat with Chef Tina Cannon – A Smoky Mountain Experience Like No Other
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure in the heart of the Smoky Mountains! We’re thrilled to welcome Chef Tina Cannon, champion of Netflix’s American Barbecue Showdown, award-winning pitmaster, and Southern food expert, to the Smoky Mountain School of Cooking this October for a 3-day Culinary Retreat packed with flavor, fun, and unforgettable experiences.
From hands-on cooking classes to lively culinary challenges, Chef Tina will share some of her favorite recipes, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories from her life in the kitchen and on the competition stage. You’ll cook, laugh, taste, and learn while enjoying the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes Smoky Mountain School of Cooking so special.
Full Retreat or Flexible Options
We know not everyone can commit to all three days — so we’ve created flexible booking options! Join us for the full retreat or choose one or two sessions that fit your schedule.
Here’s what’s on the menu:
Thursday, October 16 – VIP Welcome & Grilling Kickoff
Meet Chef Tina in person, enjoy a welcome gift, and gather around the grill for hands-on cooking stations featuring Southern-inspired bites like plank-grilled salmon bon-bons, low-country skewers, bacon-wrapped pretzels, and more. End the night with a cozy fireside chat, a signature fall drink, and a decadent dessert bar.
Friday, October 17 – Southern Flavors & Culinary Fun
Morning (9:00–11:00 AM) – $125
A hands-on Southern breakfast class with homemade biscuits, gravies, sweet potato hash, and a biscuit topping bar featuring our famous jams, honey, and molasses.
Morning + Lunch & Culinary Challenges (9:00 AM–1:00 PM) – $175
Includes breakfast plus culinary challenge prep contest, seasoning workshop, and another fun culinary game, followed by a hearty Southern lunch.
Saturday, October 18 – Grand Finale Day
Morning – “Rise & Dine with Chef Tina Cannon” (9:00 AM–12:00 PM) – $175
Start your day with a gourmet coffee tasting, brunch favorites, and a friendly culinary challenge, then enjoy grilled Party Ribs, corn pudding, and skillet green beans, and more.
Evening – “Savor & Celebrate: Surf & Turf with Chef Tina Cannon” (3:00–7:00 PM) – $225
Roll up your sleeves for hands-on side and dessert prep before learning Chef Tina’s secrets to perfect Surf & Turf: bacon wrapped pork tenderloin and grilled lobster tails. Enjoy a final feast with toasts, awards, and a farewell gift.
Special Excursion Friday Night – Anakeesta’s Astra Lumina
As part of the full retreat, guests will enjoy an evening at Anakeesta for the Astra Lumina experience — a stunning immersive light walk through the mountaintop forest. The evening includes a $20 dining credit and the chance to explore Anakeesta’s magic after dark.
Full Retreat Package includes all events and meals Friday – Saturday – $585
Why You Don’t Want to Miss This
- Learn directly from Chef Tina Cannon, a champion chef and barbecue master
- Participate in friendly (and hilarious) culinary challenges
- Enjoy recipes and flavors featuring our signature Smoky Mountain School of Cooking sauces, jams, and gourmet treats
- Experience the Smokies in fall — cozy fireside evenings, crisp mountain air, and seasonal flavors
- Flexible attendance options to fit your schedule and budget
Spots are limited, and this retreat will sell out fast. Whether you join us for the full 3 days or just one unforgettable session, you’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and plenty of delicious memories.
Reserve your spot today — your taste buds will thank you!
