Collection: Hands On Cooking Classes in the Chicago Suburbs

Friday, August 14, 6:30-9:00

Chef Amy Lukasik Presents:

8/14 Summer Night in Thailand (Hands On)

It’s Thai night! Explore the vibrant flavors, fragrant spices, and colorful ingredients that make Thai cuisine so uniquely irresistible. Learn the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy while preparing iconic dishes from Spring Rolls to Pad Thai, finishing off the night with classic sweet mango rice pudding. This flavorful escape to Thailand is the summer night dinner you didn’t know you needed!

On the menu:

Summer Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping sauce

Thai Beef Salad with Garlic Chili Dressing 

Classic Pad Thai with Shrimp

Black Forbidden Rice Pudding with Mango

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Sunday, August 16, 12:00 - 3:00 pm

Chef Brian Buchna Presents:

8/16 Summer Jams, Scones & Biscotti (Hands On)

Celebrate the sweetest flavors of the season! Learn how to turn peak-season fruit into vibrant, small-batch jams - perfectly balanced with the right touch of sweetness and brightness. Bake tender, buttery scones and crisp, golden biscotti designed to pair beautifully with your homemade preserves. Along the way, Chef Brian shares essential techniques for fruit preparation, dough handling, and achieving the ideal texture in classic scones and biscotti. Bring home samples of both your jams!

On the menu: 

Bourbon-Vanilla Peach Preserves

Strawberry, Balsamic and Black Pepper Jam

Lemon Ricotta Almond Scones

Pistachio Cranberry Biscotti

Soft beverages included in class. Wine and Beer available for purchase by the glass.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Friday August 21, 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Chef Paul Richards Presents:

8/21 Summer in Normandy (Hands On)

Transport yourself to the French countryside and explore the rustic elegance of Normandy’s summer cuisine - known for its rich dairy, fresh seafood, orchard fruits, and timeless technique. From savory classics with a coastal influence to lightly sweet finishes that celebrate peak-season fruit, each recipe reflects the charm and generosity of Norman cooking. Chef Paul shares foundational French techniques with a menu that feels both comforting and sophisticated - perfect for relaxed summer entertaining. Bon appétit!

On the menu: 

Pays d’Auge Sparkling Cidré

Galette Complète - Buckwheat Crepe with Cheese, Ham & Egg

Moules Marinières - Mussels in Wine & Butter Broth

Côtelette de Porc Normandie - Pork Chop with Apple Calvados Sauce

Haricots Verts & Purée de Pomme de Terre

Camembert with Dried Fruit & Nuts

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Saturday, August 22, 6:00 – 8:30 pm

Chef Molly Sell Presents:

8/22 Date Night: Summer Wine Dinner (Hands On)

Celebrate the ease and elegance of summer entertaining in this class centered around beautifully paired wines and seasonal cuisine. Create a multi-course menu designed to highlight the freshest ingredients of the season - ripe produce, vibrant herbs, and light, refined preparations that let each element shine. From crisp, refreshing whites to bright rosés and lighter reds, each pour is thoughtfully selected to complement the menu and showcase the art of pairing. Come ready to cook, sip, and savor—this is summer dining at its finest.

On the menu: 

Marche Cheese & Charcuterie Plate

Heirloom Tomato and Fontina Cheese Tart with Dressed Greens

Fresh Berry Salad with Feta, Baby Cucumber, Avocado, Hazelnuts and Orange Vinaigrette

Marinated and Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri 

Strawberry Rhubarb Lemon Crumble a la Mode

With Wine Pairings

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Tuesday, August 25, 6:00 – 8:30 pm

Chef Molly Sell Presents:

8/25 Vine Ripened Summer (Hands On)

Celebrate the height of summer flavor where sun-ripened produce and fresh herbs take center stage in every dish. Chef Molly highlights the simple beauty of seasonal cooking, where quality ingredients and thoughtful techniques come together to create unforgettable meals. From heirloom tomatoes and fresh herbs, to ripe and ready corn and peaches - be inspired to savor every bite of the season. 

On the menu: 

Sweet Summer Corn Chowder with Shrimp

Cast Iron Cheddar Corn Bread

Salad Niçoise with Seared Ahi Tuna and a Lemon Herb Vinaigrette

Summer Strawberry Buttermilk Shortcakes

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Thursday, August 27, 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Chef Brian Buchna Presents:

8/27 Baja Surf & Turf (Hands On)

Bring the bold, sun-soaked flavors of Baja to the table. Inspired by coastal Mexico’s vibrant food scene, create a crave-worthy surf and turf menu that pairs fresh seafood with perfectly grilled meats, all layered with bright citrus, smoky chiles, and herb-forward salsas. From zesty seafood preparations to richly seasoned meats, each element is designed to deliver contrast - light and bold, smoky and fresh, indulgent and refreshing. Expect big flavors, relaxed coastal vibes, and a menu perfect for sharing.

On the menu: 

Tequila Spiked Queso Fundido with Chorizo and Peppers

Lobster and Corn Tostada with Avocado-Lime Mousse and Crispy Leek

Guajillo Rubbed Flank Steak with Charred Scallion “Chimmi” and Homemade Tortilla

Mexican Chocolate “Pot de Creme” with Cinnamon and Cayenne

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Wednesday September 2, 6:00 – 8:30 pm

Chef Clair Smith Presents:

9/2 Coastal Summer (Hands On)

Capture the relaxed elegance of seaside dining in this hands-on class inspired by coastal summer flavors. Bright, fresh, and effortlessly refined, this class celebrates the kind of food meant to be enjoyed outdoors - preferably with a breeze, good company, and something chilled in your glass. Prepare a seasonal menu rooted in coastal ingredients like fresh seafood, citrus, herbs, and garden-grown produce. Learn approachable methods for cooking fish and shellfish, building vibrant sauces, and a perfect summer dessert. Fresh, breezy, and full of sunshine, coastal summer cooking is a celebration of simple luxury by the sea.

On the menu:

Tomatini Cocktail

Summer Green Salad with Crab Cake and Green Goddess Dressing

Lemon and Fresh Herbed Shrimp with Homemade Linguini

Summer Vegetable Succotash

Mixed Berry and Peach Galette 

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Thursday September 3, 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Chef Brian Buchna Presents:

9/3 Date Night: Parisian Garden (Hands On)

Step into a sun-dappled Parisian garden, where simple ingredients and timeless technique come together in effortlessly elegant ways. Inspired by the charm of outdoor dining in France, Chef Brian celebrates fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, and light, refined dishes that feel both rustic and sophisticated. Prepare a curated menu rooted in classic French flavors and learn essential techniques for balancing flavors, layering textures, and presenting dishes with understated elegance. Relaxed yet refined, it’s an invitation to slow down, savor, and cook the French way.

On the menu: 

St. Germain Cucumber Spritz Cocktail

Fresh Chevre and Herbed Tartine with Honeyed Fig and Micros

Traditional Ratatouille “Confit Byaldi” with Piperade

Salmon en Papillote - Steamed in Parchment with Citrus, Leeks and Vermouth

Lavender Infused Creme Brulee with Fresh Blackberry

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Thursday September 10, 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Chef Molly Sell Presents:

9/10 Fiesta de Verano Mexican (Hands On)

Fiesta de Verano brings together the warmth of tradition with the brightness of seasonal cooking for a menu that’s as colorful as it is delicious. Prepare classic Mexican techniques - layering smoky, spicy, citrusy, and herbaceous flavors in every bite. From handmade salsas and street-style favorites to grilled specialties and refreshing accompaniments, each recipe is designed for sharing and celebrating. Bold, joyful, and full of energy, this class is a summer celebration of Mexican cooking at its best.

On the menu: 

Shrimp and Avocado Tostadas

Chicken Enchiladas Suizas

Huevos Enfrijolados - Eggs on Spicy Black Beans

Spicy Classic Mexican Rice

Coconut Quatro Leches Cake

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Friday September 11, 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Chef Paul Richards Presents:

9/11 Game Day - Italia Style (Hands On)

Tailgate Italia is where Italian comfort meets game day energy. Inspired by long afternoons outdoors, shared tables, and bold regional flavors, this class is all about food that’s meant to be passed, picked up, and devoured. Create a menu of Italian-inspired game day dishes with a seasonal twist - with savory bites, hearty handhelds, vibrant antipasti, and grilled specialties layered with fresh herbs, olive oil, and bright Mediterranean flavor. 

On the menu: 

Basil Limoncello Fizz

Mini Grilled Pizzetas with Roasted Portobello Mushrooms and Sopressata

Italian Friselle Panzanella Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette, Roma Tomato, Basil & Cucumber

Italian Sausage Patty Hoagies with Provolone and Stewed Peppers & Onion Relish

Caesar Style Potato Salad

Chocolate Drizzled Biscotti

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Saturday, September 12, 10:00-11:30 am

Chef Heather Ude Presents:

9/12 Little Kids Ages 6-8: Orchard Baking (Hands On)

Inspired by the magic of picking apples straight from the trees, kids will mix, measure, stir, and decorate their way through orchard inspired favorites. Each sweet baked treat highlights natural flavors and encourages creativity, teamwork, and hands-on learning. Full of seasonal fun, this class is a delicious way for little chefs to experience the joy of cooking from orchard to oven.

On the menu: 

Sweet Apple Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Chips

Baked Apple and Pear Pastry Roll Ups

Apple Pie Smoothies with Cinnamon Whipped Cream

This is designed as a drop off class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Saturday, September 12, 1:00 - 3:00 pm

Chef Heather Ude Presents:

9/12 Mid Kids Ages 9-11: Fall Bakeshop (Hands On)

Step into an autumn-inspired bakeshop class, creating seasonal baked goods from scratch. Chef Heather focuses on building real baking skills while exploring the warm, comforting flavors of fall - from cinnamon, apples, plums, pears and more. Learn essential techniques like measuring and mixing with precision, working with doughs and batters, and understanding how ingredients work together to create perfect texture and flavor. From golden-baked treats to beautifully finished pastries, participants will gain confidence in the kitchen while producing bakery-style results.

On the menu: 

Apple Pie Cupcakes

Plum Galette

Individual Pear Cranberry Crisps

This is designed as a drop off class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Sunday September 13, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Chef Amy Lukasik Presents:

9/13 Workshop: Scratch Croissants (Hands On)

Get ready to roll, fold, and bake your way to buttery perfection! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the art of traditional French croissant making from scratch. From working with laminated dough to mastering the perfect proof and golden bake, this class covers every flaky layer. Under the guidance of our expert instructor, you’ll shape morning buns, classic croissants, pain au chocolat, and discover the secrets to that signature crisp, airy bite. Leave with a box of your baked goods and the confidence to recreate the magic at home. Enjoy Marché Cheese & Charcuterie during class.

On the menu: 

Pain Au Chocolat

Morning Buns

Traditional Croissants

Marché Cheese & Charcuterie during class

Wednesday, September 16, 6:00 – 8:30 pm

Chef Heather Ude Presents:

9/16 Family Class: Autumn Harvest (Hands On)

It’s family night in the Marcel’s kitchen for families with children aged 6 and over. Celebrate the warmth and abundance of fall in this hands-on family cooking class inspired by the season’s harvest from vine-ripe tomatoes to sweet stone fruits. Work side-by-side, transforming peak autumn ingredients into comforting, shareable dishes that bring everyone to the table. Autumn Harvest is all about gathering, cooking, and enjoying the best flavors of fall together, making memories that last far beyond the meal. Price is per person.

On the menu: 

Smoky Corn Fritters with Garlic Herb Aioli

Pan Roasted Lemon Chicken with Burst Tomatoes

Cheesy Orrechiette with Late Harvest Veggies

Stone Fruit and Blackberry Galette with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

Price is Per Person. Wine and Beer included in class for adults.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Thursday, September 17, 6:30 – 9:00 pm

Chef Robin Nathan Presents:

9/17 Last of Summer - Dinner Al Fresco (Hands On)

Savor the final golden days of summer with recipes to inspire effortless outdoor entertaining. Prepare a vibrant, seasonal menu that highlights late-summer produce at its peak - juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, stone fruit, fresh herbs, and simple proteins elevated with bold, bright flavors. Casual yet refined, this class captures the feeling of lingering evenings, warm breezes, and meals shared al fresco as the season slowly turns.

On the menu:

Fresh Lemonade & Beer Shandies

Mexican Style Shrimp Cocktail

Santa Margarita Spice Rubbed Tri Tip with Bleu Cheese Vinaigrette 

Romaine Heart, Plum and Pickled Red Onion Salad with Ciabatta Croutons

Southern Style Fruit Cobbler with Brown Sugar Vanilla Ice Cream

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Saturday, September 19, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Chef Molly Sell Presents:

9/19 Best of Fall Baking (Hands On)

Celebrate the warmth and richness of autumn in this class that blends rustic comfort with elegant seasonal flavors. Inspired by orchard fruit, earthy vegetables, and cozy bakery aromas, this class explores both savory and sweet baking traditions perfect for entertaining or slow weekend cooking. From delicate pumpkin blinis to buttery tarts layered with goat cheese and seasonal vegetables, to fresh apple pie and stone fruit pastries, these rustic yet refined recipes showcase the bounty of fall. Build essential baking techniques, gain confidence with pastry doughs, and learn how to balance flavors across a seasonal menu. Cozy, creative, and deeply satisfying, this class is a celebration of fall baking at its most delicious.

On the menu: 

Pumpkin Blinis served with Crème Fraiche, Smoked Salmon and Chive

Leek, Mushroom and Goat Cheese Tart served with Dressed Greens

Orchard Fresh Apple Pie with Walnut Crumble

Pear Galette with Maldon Salted Caramel

Soft beverages included in class. Wine and Beer available for purchase by the glass.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Tuesday, September 22, 6:00 – 8:30 pm

Chef Clair Smith Presents:

9/22 Greek Island Tour (Hands On)

Transport your senses to the sun-soaked shores of Greece with an evening of hands-on cooking 

inspired by the flavors of the Greek Islands. Learn to craft fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes featuring vibrant ingredients like lemon, olive oil, oregano, and feta. From hummus to falafel, it is an evening to savor a taste of Greece, no passport required. 

On the menu:

Sun Dried Tomato Hummus with Crudite

Pan Fried Falafel Sliders with Tahini Sauce 

Quick Pickled Red Onions

Greek Fried Halloumi

Orange Olive Oil Cake with Honey Whipped Cream

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Sunday, September 27, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

Chef Brian Buchna Presents:

9/27 Workshop: Sous Vide (Hands On)

Unlock the secrets of restaurant-quality cooking in this hands-on class focused on the art of sous vide. With Chef Brian as your guide, you’ll learn to sous vide, eggs, veggies, steak and more. Master perfectly cooked steak every time - tender, juicy, and full of flavor - using sous vide precision, followed by a reverse sear technique to create that crave-worthy, caramelized crust. By the end of class, you’ll not only enjoy a gourmet, chef-level meal - you’ll leave with the confidence and skills to sous vide at home.

On the menu: 

Poached Egg with Lemon-Butter Asparagus

Garlic and Rosemary Confit Potatoes

Sous-Vide Infused Carrots and Parsnips

Ultimate Sous-Vide Ribeye with Garlic-Herb Butter

Vanilla Bean Pot De Creme with Seasonal Berry Compote

Soft beverages included in class. Wine and Beer available for purchase by the glass.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.

Wednesday, September 30, 6:00 - 8:30pm

Chef Molly Sell Presents:

Midwest Autumn (Hands On)

Celebrate the abundance of the Midwest's fall harvest, featuring the comforting flavors and seasonal ingredients that define autumn in America's heartland. From hearty root vegetables to mushrooms, fresh herbs, and warm baking spices, you'll prepare a menu that showcases the best of the season. Leave with delicious recipes, seasonal cooking techniques, and plenty of inspiration to bring the warmth and flavors of a Midwestern autumn into your own kitchen all season long.

On the menu:

Butternut Squash and Coconut Soup with Crispy Kale Garnish

Wild Mushroom Stroganoff

Sage Butter Mashed Potatoes 

Bacon, Egg and Brussels Sprout Salad

Sticky Toffee Cake with Salted Caramel

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all other regularly priced merchandise during class.

Saturday, September 5, 6:00 – 8:30 pm

Chef Molly Sell Presents:

Date Night: Summer Wine Dinner (Hands On)

Celebrate the ease and elegance of summer entertaining in this class centered around beautifully paired wines and seasonal cuisine. Create a multi-course menu designed to highlight the freshest ingredients of the season - ripe produce, vibrant herbs, and light, refined preparations that let each element shine. From crisp, refreshing whites to bright rosés and lighter reds, each pour is thoughtfully selected to complement the menu and showcase the art of pairing. Come ready to cook, sip, and savor—this is summer dining at its finest.

On the menu: 

Marche Cheese & Charcuterie Plate

Heirloom Tomato and Fontina Cheese Tart with Dressed Greens

Fresh Berry Salad with Feta, Baby Cucumber, Avocado, Hazelnuts and Orange Vinaigrette

Marinated and Grilled Flank Steak with Chimichurri 

Strawberry Rhubarb Lemon Crumble a la Mode

With Wine Pairings

Wine and Beer included in class.

10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise during class.