Log in
Meet our Chefs
At Marcel's Culinary Experience, our chefs are at the heart of everything we do. From hands-on cooking classes and wine dinners to private events and culinary demonstrations, each member of our chef team brings a unique blend of professional expertise, teaching talent, and passion for great food. Whether you're joining us to learn new cooking techniques, explore global cuisines, or simply enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience, our chefs are dedicated to making every class engaging, approachable, and inspiring. Get to know the talented chefs who lead our cooking classes, share their culinary knowledge, and help create the welcoming atmosphere that has made Marcel's a premier destination for cooking classes and culinary education.
Chef Heather Ude
Chef Heather has been teaching at Marcel’s since 2021. As the resident chef of kids and family classes, she is passionate about teaching the fundamentals of cooking to children and teens. She brings energy and creativity in cultivating young chefs into future generations of the culinary world.
Chef Brian Buchna
A creative force at both Marcels and Marche, with over 17 years experience in the industry. Brian's cooking style ranges globally, leaning towards contemporary and robust flavors, while still paying respect to the traditions of each culture's history and ingredients. With boundless energy, warmth, and a genuine passion for teaching, he transforms every class into an unforgettable culinary experience. His creativity shines through in each thoughtfully crafted recipe, blending technique, flavor, and approachability that inspires cooks of all levels.
Chef Clair Smith
Chef Clair loves teaching people how to cook in a hands‑on, informative, and fun way and has been doing so for over 20 years in Chicago, Naperville and Glen Ellyn. Nothing makes her happier than that light‑bulb moment when a new skill or technique finally clicks for her students. She has a soft spot for teaching knife skills, partly because they’re essential, and partly because watching someone go from “nervously chopping” to “confidently slicing” never gets old. She creates a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where good conversation, learning, and plenty of laughter bring people together.
Chef Molly Sell
Chef Molly has been a culinary instructor since 2007. She joined the Marcel’s Team in 2024 after returning from Europe where she was a professional chef. She loves showing people just how much fun cooking can be by keeping things relaxed and hands-on. She enjoys helping guests explore new flavors while enjoying every step of the cooking process.