Dash of Soy is a Seattle-based culinary school founded by Elaine Sher in 2019. The school specializes in simple, delicious, and healthy home-cooking inspired by Elaine’s childhood and family traditions. After 20 years in technology marketing, Elaine left the corporate world in 2017 to travel solo. She later returned to Seattle to follow her passion for a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Elaine has lived in Canada and the U.S. for over 30 years and traveled to more than 50 countries. Growing up with authentic Chinese and pan-Asian cuisine, she is well-versed in both Asian and North American ingredients and flavors, fostering a deep appreciation for global food cultures. Elaine is also a guest instructor at The Pantry, PCC Markets, and Book Larder.

Since 2023, Dash of Soy has evolved into a platform for chefs who share a commitment to authenticity and cultural representation. The chefs who regularly teach here are all women of color, each bringing their own cultural heritage to life through authentic dishes.

Dash of Soy donates regularly to charities founded by or serving BIPOC, women, and LGBTQIA+ communities.

Dash of Soy cooking classes are truly one-of-a-kind. They are always hands-on and in small-group settings, whether it is an online, in-person, or hybrid class. All the classes are designed to normalize and introduce classic Asian flavors into everyday cooking.

Besides being a cooking instructor, Elaine is also an artist who creates beautifully hand-drawn and step-by-step recipes for many dishes that she teaches. She also accepts the occasional commission to create pet portraits.

Dash of Soy is proudly located in the historic, industrial-chic Georgetown of Seattle. So come for the cooking classes, but stay to explore this unique and lesser-known neighborhood of Seattle!