Program Philosophy
South Los Angeles is one of the largest food deserts in LA County, and its youth deserve better access to both nutritious food and economic opportunity. The Kitchen to Capital program was created to bridge that gap by combining hands-on culinary training with entrepreneurship education and real-world cafe operations. The goal is to empower young people to launch culinary careers or food businesses of their own, creating lasting economic impact and a healthier South LA.
Started in 2025
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South LA young adults passionate about food, culture, and entrepreneurship
Monday - Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM. Wednesday off-site: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
ServSafe certifications, real kitchen experience, entrepreneurship training, $1,300 stipend, career placement support
Cost & Outcomes
This program is completely free for all participants. No tuition, no fees, no hidden costs.
Stipend Award: Receive $1,300 upon completion of the program.
Who This Program is Built For
This program was specifically designed with these communities in mind. If you see yourself, you belong here.
What Sets This Program Apart
Zero-cost training with a $1,300 stipend paid upon successful completion
Hands-on training inside a real operating cafe (60th Street Cafe) where students serve the public
Multiple industry-recognized ServSafe certifications included (Food Handlers, Allergen, Alcohol, Restaurant Manager)
Direct partnerships with local culinary leaders including Dulan's Soul Food Kitchen, Alta Adams, Chef's Catering, and Rio Hondo AJCC
Entrepreneurship and business skills training alongside culinary fundamentals
Capstone project: students execute a full Cafe Takeover event
Day in the Life
- Instructor-led culinary training in a commercial kitchen
- Small cohort of approximately 15 students per class
- Hands-on cooking practice covering topics from food safety to advanced culinary techniques
- Barista and beverage preparation training
- Entrepreneurship and business skills workshops
- Real-world cafe operations experience serving customers at 60th Street Cafe
- Off-site learning experiences on Wednesdays (9 AM - 5 PM)
Instructors are experienced professional chefs with industry backgrounds in restaurant and catering operations, providing hands-on mentorship in a commercial kitchen setting.
Soft and technical skills you'll gain by program completion.
ServSafe Food Handlers; ServSafe Allergen; ServSafe Alcohol; ServSafe Restaurant Manager
100% pass rate
Highs & Lows
Adapting to the fast pace and physical demands of professional kitchen work, maintaining consistency and discipline throughout the intensive 6-week schedule, and building confidence in a new professional environment.
The hands-on experience of running a real cafe and serving the community, building deep bonds with fellow cohort members, earning industry-recognized certifications, and gaining confidence that they can build a career or business in the food industry.
Graduates can advance from entry-level kitchen or cafe roles to sous chef, head chef, kitchen manager, or catering director positions within 5-10 years. Entrepreneurship training also prepares graduates to launch their own food trucks, catering businesses, or restaurants.
Employment Support
Industry Connections: Direct access to partner restaurants and hospitality employers through internship and mentorship placements
On-the-Job Training: Graduates receive OJT opportunities after completing the program
Employer Partnerships: Active relationships with local culinary businesses for job placement
Real-World Experience: Resume-building through hands-on cafe operations during the program
Career Coaching: Workforce development staff support career planning and job readiness
Hear From the Program
Instructor
They're learning so much and want to better their lives and not be a product of their environment. I keep pouring into them that they can go somewhere, continue to elevate and be a better version of themselves.
How It Works
Complete the online application via Google Form
Application review by program staff
Interview
Submit required identification and eligibility documents (ID, proof of LA County residency, work authorization)
Acceptance notification and cohort assignment
Begin 6-week in-person training at 60th Street Cafe
Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.A restaurant within a 10 mile radius where students go to learn about different cuisines and connect with food service entrepreneurs.