Trading places

In the coming days, experience some of your favorite local chefs' food in different spaces. Hot Italian's co-owner Fabrizio Cercatore will lead a cooking demonstration and class at the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op (1900 Alhambra Boulevard) on Thursday, October 29. He'll talk seasonal ingredients, fine meats and, most importantly, the secrets to his pizza crust. Tickets cost $55 for the general public and $45 for co-op members. More at www.sacfoodcoop.com. One week later, the chef team behind Mother and Empress Tavern takes over Plates Cafe (14 Business Parkway, Suite 149) on Thursday, November 5. Normally, Plates Cafe offers vocational training through St. John's Program for Real Change, specifically for women who have suffered from homelessness, abuse and poverty. Michael Thiemann and Matt Masera will cook up a family-style feast, with pours from Turley Wine Cellars. Buy $50 tickets at www.novembergcd.eventbrite.com.