YMCA Test Kitchen

5
(17 reviews)
Last updated: May 23, 2025
Website
319-250-9052
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About The Business

The YMCA Test Kitchen is a dedicated culinary space located within the Fort Madison YMCA. It serves as a community resource focused on providing individuals with opportunities to learn and practice cooking skills in a supportive environment. The kitchen is equipped to host a variety of culinary activities.

The program offers a diverse schedule of cooking classes and workshops designed for different interests and skill levels. Classes cover various topics, including fundamental baking techniques, specific cuisine styles like Italian or Japanese, and popular dishes such as pasta or sushi. There are also specially designed classes catering to specific groups, such as ‘Kids in the Kitchen’ and ‘Couples Date Night’ sessions, encouraging participation across different demographics.

Classes are typically hands-on, allowing participants to actively engage in the cooking process under guidance. The goal is to build confidence in the kitchen, explore new flavors and techniques, and provide an enjoyable social experience centered around food preparation and sharing.

Location & Hours

YMCA Test Kitchen

807 Ave G, Fort Madison, 52627

319-250-9052

Get directions
Hours
Mon
3:30-6:30PM
Tue
3:30-6:30PM
Wed
3:30-6:30PM
Thu
Closed
Fri
Closed
Sat
Closed
Sun
Closed

Additional Information

Class types:

Date night, Couples, Kids’ classes

Age groups:

Kids, Adults

Skill level:

Beginner, All levels

Class themes:

Pasta Making, Sushi Making, Baking, Italian, Japanese

Class sizes:

Unspecified

Participation types:

Hands-on

Teacher credentials:

Unspecified

Class types:

Cooking school

Class duration:

Single-sessions

BYOB allowed?

Not allowed

YMCA Test Kitchen Reviews

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Avoid Gather & Forge – My Experience with Their Private Chef Services

September 12, 2025

I don’t usually write negative reviews, but I wanted to share my experience in case it helps someone else avoid the same mistake.

I hired Gather & Forge well in advance to provide a great private dining experience for guests I had flown in from across the country—two nights in a row. Both nights were a letdown.

The chef showed up 45 minutes to an hour late each night.

The food wasn’t hot. It came out lukewarm or even cool.

The quality of the meal didn’t justify the price. Honestly, I’d say the value was maybe 60% of what we paid.

I gave them plenty of chances to make it right, but they had no interest in doing so. As much as I think Brandon (the chef) worked hard, the overall service just didn’t live up to the cost or the expectations.

Bottom line: Gather & Forge is overpriced, underdelivers, and doesn’t seem to care about customer satisfaction. I really wanted this to be a great experience, but I would never use them again and highly discourage anyone from booking them for private chef services.

Clay

Fabulous venue for events & Italian cooking classes!

August 25, 2025

Our BYOB wine group had an amazing experience Saturday night at A Taste of Milan in the Southside with Chef Sidney and Katie! We learned how to make home made pasta and enjoyed her family recipes handed down from generations! Truly beyond 5 stars and it was a magical evening! Thank you Sidney and Katie

Kim Marie Angiulli