Remember back in 2011 when the Pantry opened its doors behind Delancey in Ballard? When everyone freaked out about how great it was and its various culinary classes filled up pretty much the minute the calendar was posted?

These days, says owner Brandi Henderson, "I think it's getting worse." Classes and events often sell out the day they're announced. And having such a full schedule of maybe 45 classes a month means saying a regretful no to visiting authors and chefs, whose Seattle plans come together after the Pantry's calendar is already set.

Thus Henderson is downright giddy to take over the former massage studio next door, adding a second teaching kitchen, with a folding wall that can open the entire Pantry up into one big space. In addition to chef or cookbook events, she's envisioning more potlucks, food swaps, and other accessible food-driven gatherings. Hopefully we'll also see more of the very cool Seattle Meat Collective co-founded here.

Like most projects these days, there are funds to be raised. Gift certificates come with incentives like being able to sign up for classes ahead of the public release date. The expansion officially begins in September.