Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Amaya.
Hi Diana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Diana Amaya, and I’ve proudly called Orlando home since 2021. Before settling here, I spent my life in Bergen County, New Jersey, building a 17‑year career in the corporate world. Those years gave me a strong foundation in research and development, procurement, supply chain, and even a touch of marketing — all skills that would later become invaluable. But despite everything I learned, my true passion has always been teaching.
The moment that changed everything came from the smallest voice. When my son was five, he walked out of one of his cooking classes, looked up at me, and said, “Mom, I know your job is stressful, but maybe one day you can open a place and call it The Taste of Curiosity.” I’ll never forget that moment. He went on to explain that we could offer people a taste of everything we loved doing together — cooking, crafting, and learning.
That tiny seed he planted grew into something real, something joyful, something ours.
Today, our family‑owned studio offers cooking lessons for ages 2 through adults. We love curating and customizing birthday parties, creating unforgettable experiences for both kids and grown‑ups. Our team‑building events — with groups joining us from all over the country — bring out everyone’s competitive, creative side. And collaborating with talented local instructors who use our space to teach has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
At the core of everything we do is connection. I truly believe that building your network and supporting your community is one of the strongest foundations a business can have. And every day, I’m grateful that my son’s idea became the spark that brought The Taste of Curiosity to life.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Becoming a small business owner is a wild ride — equal parts thrilling, exhausting, and deeply rewarding. When I launched my business, I quickly learned that starting an LLC, building a website, and transforming an empty space into our first brick‑and‑mortar location were just the warm‑up.
My biggest challenge? Trying to grow a business while still working my full‑time corporate job. Picture this: late nights spent creating class content, teaching myself how to manage our website (with my brother patiently coaching me through every “Wait… what button did I just press?” moment), and sprinting from my corporate office straight into an apron to teach a class. It was chaotic, messy, and honestly — kind of magical.
What many people don’t see is the sheer amount of time and heart that goes into crafting the perfect experience. From the moment a customer lands on our website to the moment they walk out our doors after their first class, every detail is intentional. Every recipe, every setup, every smile — it all comes from hours of behind‑the‑scenes work.
And because we’re a family business, “all hands on deck” isn’t just a saying — it’s our reality. I’m incredibly grateful for my son and my husband, who have been my biggest cheerleaders, my extra set of hands, and sometimes the only reason I didn’t fall asleep standing up. Their support is the secret ingredient that keeps this whole dream running.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
With backgrounds in Unilever’s supply chain, Seminole County substitute teaching, and now as the creative force behind The Taste of Curiosity, our journey blends structure, education, and imagination.
At The Taste of Curiosity, we offer weekly hands-on cooking classes for children ages 2 and up, along with custom birthday experiences for kids and adults alike. We’re honored to have been voted #1 Cooking Class by the Macaroni Kid Favorite Awards, a recognition that reflects our commitment to fun, engaging learning.
Looking to plan a unique date night? Our sushi and pasta-making classes offer a relaxed, interactive experience—and we’re BYOB, so bring your favorite drink.
We also provide tutoring services with over 17 years of experience, rooted in the belief that learning should always be fun and engaging.
Our ever-evolving pop-up events range from sourdough bread baking to immersive themed nights like Stranger Things and K-pop experiences. Have an idea? We love bringing creative visions to life.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, the future of The Taste of Curiosity is all about growth, creativity, and deeper community connection. We’re excited to continue expanding what we offer — especially exploring new crafting experiences and hands‑on projects that spark imagination for all ages.
One dream close to my heart is partnering with local culinary students and giving them a platform to shine. Showcasing emerging talent not only supports the next generation of chefs, but also brings fresh ideas and flavors into our studio. And if a well‑known chef ever wants to pop in for a special event, our doors (and ovens) are wide open.
Of course, my biggest motivator is still my 10‑year‑old son, who reminds me regularly — and with full confidence — that if anyone can open a second location, it’s me. His belief fuels my own.
My hope is that our community continues to support and believe in us, just as they have from the beginning. With their encouragement, and with the passion that drives our family every day, I know that one day we’ll make that dream of expanding The Taste of Curiosity a reality.
Pricing:
- Starting at $31.50 child weekly class
- Adults: starting at $35.00 & up
- Pasta making: $55 & up
- Parties: Range based on packaged and customized add ons
- Team builds: starting as low as $35.99 per adult
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Thetasteofcuriosity.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetasteofcuriosity/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetasteofcuriosity/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thetasteofcuriosity?_r=1&_t=ZT-92gQR9scGKc
