Beginner Cooking Classes Downtown Chicago

A Taste of Italian Classics Review Photo from Cooking Class in Chicago

Karen M. February, 2026

Booked the class A Taste of Italian Classics with Chef Janet in Chicago

What a delicious Italian meal we prepared ! The evening flew by as we all participated in the prep. Our budding chefs gained confidence and seasoned cooks some new tricks!

Cara P. October, 2026

Booked the event Classic Latin-Inspired Tacos with Chef Andy in Chicago (Chicago Loop)

This is a repeat event we do each summer with onboarding new hires - it is ALWAYS a hit!!! Chef Andy makes it an incredibly fun and rewarding experience - especially since most of the guests are fresh out of college! Thank you, Chef Andy - we can't wait to come back again next year!!

Laura G. July, 2025

Booked the class A Taste of Italian Classics with Chef Janet in Chicago (Near West Side)

My sister and I had such a wonderful time in Janet’s cooking class! She was warm, knowledgeable, and made the experience both fun and approachable. We learned how to make a delicious bruschetta with olive tapenade, a perfectly cooked chicken marsala, and a silky panna cotta that was the perfect finish. Janet’s guidance made even the more intimidating steps feel easy, and we walked away with new skills—and full stomachs! Highly recommend her class to anyone looking for a hands-on and memorable culinary experience.

Devesh S. October, 2024

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet in Chicago

We had a lovely time learning from Chef Janet, would highly recommend!

Michele A. April, 2024

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Forest Park

Chef Janet was wonderful! She came to our house for a for a family class in Dim Sum and we had a great time, especially our 6 year old granddaughter. We learned a lot and appreciate that she was willing to teach all of us. Looking forward to scheduling again!

Ellen B. January, 2024

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet in Chicago (Logan Square)

We had SO much fun with Janet! She taught us a lot, was really kind and had great convo, and the food was delicious! She also left us absolutely nothing to clean up afterwards. We would absolutely book again. It was a great choice for my husband’s bday.

Gracie H. December, 2023

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago (Edgewater)

Janet was a hoot. We had so much fun making dimsum and every dish was beyond delicious. I can't wait to whip out these recipes for my next dinner party!

Claire P. December, 2023

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago

Chef Janet was AWESOME! Booked her Dim Sum class for my 2 year anniversary. She comes with everything you could need (you need to supply nothing but a stove and microwave!) and then takes home all of the dirty pots and pans - no clean up was a lovely surprise. She is funny and great to talk to. Oh and most importantly, the food was delicious!

Matthew J. September, 2023

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet in Chicago (Logan Square)

Our time with Chef Janet was nothing short of wonderful. It was a delightful experience to cook, converse, and create a wonderful memory with her. She was also very accommodating regarding potential dietary restrictions and made to share lots of useful techniques that could be used in our own cooking ventures. Please do yourself a favor and take one of her classes! You won’t regret it!

Derek B. September, 2023

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago (Portage Park)

All of the reviews say how great Chef Janet is…they are 100% correct. She makes the class such a nice experience. She was great with our kids and she was super patient.

Sam P. August, 2023

Booked the class Traditional Italian Pasta Making with Chef Alex in Chicago (West Loop)

Alex was awesome! We did a couples class and learned how to make cacio e pepe. It was one of the best pasta dishes we've ever had! The recipe was super easy to follow, and he showed us many tips and tricks along the way. Alex was super easy to get along with and talk to, and he made the whole experience enjoyable. He really exceeded expectations, would highly recommend!

Adam S. July, 2023

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet in Chicago (Lake View)

Chef Janet was great!

Alicia R. March, 2023

Booked the class Authentic Mexican with Chef Lawrencia in Chicago (Uptown)

We very much enjoyed our experience cooking with Chef Lawrencia! I was surprised at how many delicious dishes we were able to create together in such a short amount of time. Chef did an excellent job of either delegating tasks to us or walking us through them. We enjoyed a wonderful meal and even had leftovers for the next day!

Steve B. March, 2023

Booked the class Wholesome and Hearty Mediterranean Meal with Chef Titik in Chicago (New City)

Had a great time!

Molly C. March, 2023

Booked the class Journey to Spain with Chef David

Chef David was AWESOME!! We had such a great time. And David's sarcastic humor was top notch...and his cooking skills aren't bad either :-P Kidding...he was a great teacher, and very relaxed with so many things happening at once. Any level of cooking skill would do great in this class...and probably any class that is taught by David. Thank you for a wonderful experience!

Ryan A. January, 2023

Booked the class Traditional Italian Pasta Making with Chef Alex in Chicago

Great class!

Heather M. December, 2022

Booked the class Classic Southern Staples with Chef Lawrencia in Chicago (Pilsen)

Very accessible recipes and delicious food. My husband already said he will be able to make the salmon croquettes again on his own!! Chef Lawrencia was really good at giving my husband and I different tasks and bouncing between our stations to keep us engaged and supervise the meal progression. We had a very nice evening.

Andres U. September, 2022

Booked the class Traditional Italian Pasta Making with Chef Alex in Chicago (Streeterville)

We had an amazing experience with Chef Alex! he was well prepared, experienced, and knowledgeable. He explained every step of the process and let us try it ourselves to help us learn hand on. Finally, and most importantly, the pasta was delicious. I would recommend him 100%.

Aleja R. April, 2021

Booked the class French Caribbean Feast with Chef Jane

She was amazing! I will definitely hire her again.

Aj V. January, 2020

Booked the class L'Amore = Pizza with Chef Scott

Chef Scott was amazing! My fiance and I had an amazing night learning how to make pizza. Parking near our building is not easy and Scott found a spot with ease. The night was great and Scott also gave us his recommendations for restaurants in Chicago. We are looking forward to many more amazing pizzas to come! We are also now huge fans of Cozymeal and are considering which classes to take next.

Steph C. January, 2019

Booked the class French Caribbean Feast with Chef Jane

Great experience! Amazing food!

Morgan A. December, 2017

Booked the class Tuscan Grill with Chef Nick

Chef Nick was absolutely amazing! From the moment he came into the door he fit right in with my partner and I. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and professional, and we couldn’t recommend him enough. The food was spectacular and he turned a steak non-believer into a steak lover. If you’re seeking to have a lovely date night we would highly recommend chef Nick!

William W. August, 2026

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet

Chef Janet was incredible! As a birthday gift to my sister we booked Chef Janet for some Italian cooking and I have not one regret! The night started on schedule and Chef Janet brought everything including ingredients and cooking equipment. What made the night so special was Chef Janet’s amazing ability to cook, teach, laugh and listen. She was incredible. It doesn’t hurt that the food was absolutely incredible as well. The butternut squash ravioli with brown butter and sage was absolutely TO DIE FOR. My sister greatly appreciated the night and it will be memorable forever. Thank you, Janet!

William C. July, 2026

Booked the class Sun-Kissed Flavors of the Mediterranean with Chef Janet

We booked with Chef Janet for our anniversary. We chose her Mediterranean menu and everything was delicious - got to give a shoutout to the baklava! She was a wonderful teacher, guiding us through the process, and explaining what to look for. Chef Janet was great company and very kind, and we had an amazing time connecting over cooking. She brought all necessary equipment, and left us no mess to clean. Thank you, Chef Janet! We had an incredible time.

Anna B. July, 2026

Booked the class Sun-Kissed Flavors of the Mediterranean with Chef Janet in Burbank

The class was absolutely incredible and Chef Janet was such a pleasure to spend time with! I’d highly highly recommend booking with her if you want to have a blast cooking and get fed well

Brian L. June, 2026

Booked the class Sushi Making at a Local Distillery with Chef Janet in Chicago (Norwood Park)

My 1st cozy meal class how to make sushi, was fun & easy, Thank you Janet!

Matt C. June, 2026

Booked the class Sushi Making at a Local Distillery with Chef Janet in Chicago (Norwood Park)

We had a great time at the sushi rolling class - so much so that we bought the ingredients right after!

Devin O. April, 2026

Booked the class Wholesome and Hearty Mediterranean Meal with Chef Titik in Chicago (New City)

We cooked couscous with chicken shawarma, fresh hummus, and an incredible lemon olive oil cake! It was a lot of fun. Titik was awesome, friendly, and taught us some cool techniques didn’t know before. Made everything from scratch, even the shawarma spice for the chicken. Definitely will be back for another cuisine!

aileen g. March, 2026

Booked the class Vegetarian Masterclass with Chef Titik in Chicago (New City)

My sister took me to this class for my birthday and I loved it! She cooks more than I do but everything we tried and made was delicious. I was very hungry when I came and was glad I could sample and try the vegetables as we were cooking. We had tomato soup abut halfway through the class. I really enjoyed the crostinis I had with them. We put lots of Parmesan cheese on top. I love cheese and eat a lot of it, this really made the soup taste good. I really like portobello mushrooms and was glad when they were in the main dish. We cooked those in the oven and got rid of the water. I had tried to make a mushroom en croute before and now I know that mushrooms release water when cooking which is why mine was not the best! We used caramelized onions and sautéed spinach two of my favorites. We used an egg to bind the pastry dough together. The potato au gratin and the demi-glaze sauce together was the best decision I made when eating my dinner after we cooked everything. The table was set beautifully when my sister and I came in. We brought the food to the table and enjoyed all our hard work. 10/10 would take this class again!

aileen g. March, 2026

Booked the class Vegetarian Masterclass with Chef Titik in Chicago (New City)

If you want to take this class please do!! You will not be disappointed! We made a wonderful tomato bisque soup, delicious potato au gratin and the fabulous main course was mushroom en croute. The desert really made the experience which was the poached pear in wine with spices. Everything was perfect. Chef Titik knowledge of different cuisines is amazing and seen in how she was cooking the whole time. We chopped, sautéed, minced, julienned and used all four burners on the stove at once! Very impressive! When sautéing and caramelizing the onions for the mushroom en croute we used balsamic vignette but also sampled Indonesian sweet soy sauce! Such a cool experience of flavors! I am not a vegetarian myself but still loved the class! We started by making the desert because of the length of time it was cooking. We sampled the wine the pears were poached in and it was delicious! This is great for the summer, you can use the wine for sangria as well! We had the soup half way through cooking the meal and it was to die for! My brother and myself both took seconds! The potato au gratin was so fun to make! You learn how to make a béchamel sauce from scratch and how to parboil things! A skill both of us will have with us forever. I really enjoyed making the demi-glazed sauce, this was a new experience for me and I didn't realize how many vegetables were involved. Overall a great experience! Took my brother for his birthday and absolutely loved it!

aileen g. February, 2026

Booked the class Wholesome and Hearty Mediterranean Meal with Chef Titik in Chicago (New City)

She went through with us step by step making a mango sparkling water drink with mint. Then went onto the best hummus I've ever had made with garlic as the extra ingredient. We then learned to make couscous and Chicken Shawarma which was delicious. It was so cool to make the spice mixture step by step smelling each ingredient as you put it in. We then made a lovely seafood stew to go along with the chicken. It was so cool I have never cooked with saffron before it was delicious! We made the cake first since it took an hour to bake. It was worth the wait!!! To finish we tried all the food we ate family style in her dining rom. She gave such a lovely cozy feeling. It was like cooking at home with my mom. She answered all our questions and had great knowledge of the food and region she was teaching us to make. 10/10 would book her again!

Brian K. February, 2026

Booked the class Journey to Spain with Chef David in Chicago (Near West Side)

Paella, pan con tomate, almond cake and Brussel sprout salad. the food was excellent and David was very knowledgeable and friendly.

Brian B. December, 2025

Booked the class Italian Pasta Essentials with Chef David in Chicago (Near North)

It was great. Would recommend Chef David to anyone.

Caitlyn K. October, 2025

Booked the event Classic Latin-Inspired Tacos with Chef Andy in Chicago (Fulton Market)

Amazing class! My team was absolutely thrilled with the cooking experience. They loved being together in a different format outside of work and enjoyed eating what they created together! Chef Andy and team were pleasant, helpful, and good vibes all around!

Drew S. August, 2025

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet in Chicago (Streeterville)

Janet was super friendly, brought everything we needed, and was super attentive to all our needs and questions. 10/10 would recommend to anyone looking for a fun cooking experience! The food was also delicious.

Laine C. August, 2025

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago (West Town)

Chef Janet was wonderful, and we had such a fun time during our Dim Sum class! Couldn't recommend her services more for anyone looking for a fun group activity!

Caseylin . February, 2025

Booked the class Journey to Spain with Chef David

Really enjoyed my experience cooking at David’s class. Went with my partner and had a great time learning cutting/cooking techniques. Cooked a delicious three course meal: bruschetta, Brussels sprouts salad, Chorizo paella, and almond cake. After cooking, we all sat down at a big table to eat with other class participants; family style. Had a great time talking to others and getting to know each other. It was comfy, intimate, and cozy, exactly what you would expect from a cooking class. David was personable and charming, what a great teacher. Thanks for a wonderful class.

Wendy S. February, 2025

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago

Chef Janet was excellent from start to finish! She created a fun and engaging experience, guiding us through the preparation of a wonderful meal with plenty of laughs along the way. Her instructions were clear, making it easy to learn new techniques while enjoying the process. Not only was the food delicious, but she also left my kitchen spotless—like she had never even been there. I highly recommend Chef Janet for an amazing experience!

Evan A. February, 2025

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet in Chicago (Loop)

Janet was fantastic! We had such a fun time learning the art of pasta/ravioli making with her. She comes well prepared with everything (including pots/pans you name it) and her culinary knowledge is exceptional. HIGHLY recommend using Chef Janet you will not regret it. She also went above and beyond to assist in some modifications for dietary restrictions. :)

Rhonda M. January, 2025

Booked the event Classic Latin-Inspired Tacos with Chef Andy in Chicago (Fulton Market)

Had a Wonderful Event with Chef Andy - A corporate event with over 30 people! It was wonderful Chef Andy, and his team were very engaged with the large group and everyone participated. Food was Amazing!! I would highly recommend for Corporate or Personal Gathering. Cozy Meal has the best Customer Service, made this event a breeze! I would give Chef Andy and the Team at Cozy Meal an A++++ Thank You Rhonda Munoz

Stephanie S. January, 2025

Booked the class Journey to Spain with Chef David

Chef David was great! Very fun class, great teacher, and delicious food. Highly recommend the Journey to Spain class.

Hannah D. January, 2025

Booked the class Fundamental Kitchen Skills and Techniques with Chef David

Chef David was awesome! We had lots of fun and really enjoyed the recipes and what we learned in class. Would definitely recommend and do another class ourselves!

Susan S. December, 2024

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Lake Forest

Janet was excellent, the food was delicious and experience of cooking it really fun. We wanted to be hands on and she had plenty for us to do, and the end results was fantastic and we have plenty of leftovers. We would definitely want her to come again, just what we were looking for.

David M. December, 2024

Booked the event Spanish Paella Party with Chef Andy in Chicago (Fulton Market)

Chef Andy and his team were super helpful and made the experience really enjoyable!

Thomas L. December, 2024

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago (River North)

Chef Janet was awesome! All of the food was so good, better than I've had in restaurants (Dim Sum). Janet was incredibly nice, instructive and great conversation. I would not have expected I'd be a semi-pro potsticker folder in such a short period of time, cooking is not my strong suit! I got this experience for my partner as a gift and she was so stoked. We would definitely do another cooking experience with Janet!

Justin S. November, 2024

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago (West Town)

Chef Janet delivered a fantastic private dim sum cooking class! Her clear instructions and hands-on teaching style made the experience both educational and fun. She expertly explained each technique while keeping the atmosphere light with great conversation. The dim sum we prepared was delicious, and we learned how to recreate everything at home. Chef Janet maintained perfect cleanliness throughout and left the kitchen spotless. Her professionalism, combined with her warm personality, made for an outstanding cooking experience. Pros: - Expert instruction - Delicious results - Great conversation - Spotless cleanup - Fun atmosphere Highly recommend for anyone interested in learning dim sum cooking!

Mihoko S. October, 2024

Booked the class Homemade Pasta Methodology with Chef Janet in Chicago (Lake View)

We had a wonderful ravioli & cannoli cooking class with Chef Janet! She was very well prepared, easygoing and fun to chat with, and taught us with clear and thoughtful instructions that will make it easy to recreate her delicious recipes in the future! Overall fantastic experience and would recommend to friends or as gifts!

Jonathan J. October, 2024

Booked the class Essential Dim Sum with Chef Janet in Chicago (Lincoln Park)

Janet was great! She showed up on time, brought everything she would need for the night, and cleaned up everything after! She was kind and very helpful throughout the cooking process. The entire experience lasted slight over 2 hours. I would highly recommend Janet for your Cozymeal experience!

Beginner Cooking Classes in Downtown Chicago

Trending

Homemade Pasta Methodology

Classic Beef Wellington

Essential Dim Sum

Sushi Making at a Local Distillery

Date Night Favorites

Classic Beef Wellington

Essential Dim Sum

Homemade Pasta Methodology

Sushi Making at a Local Distillery

What Downtown Chicago Beginner cooking cooking classes on Cozymeal include

Team Building & Groups

Sun-Kissed Flavors of the Mediterranean

Classic Beef Wellington

A Taste of Italian Classics

Essential Dim Sum

Fresh Pasta Favorites

A Homemade Stuffed Pasta Meal

Classic Stuffed Pasta

Homemade Pasta Methodology

Fresh Ravioli Meal

Baking Favorites

Flavorful Autumn Macarons

Autumn-Inspired French Macarons

Breadmaking Skills

Handmade French Brioche

Healthier Options

Simple Indian Cooking

Classic Korean BBQ

Master Elegant Korean BBQ

Make a Cozy Ramen Dinner

Vegetarian Options

A Taste of Italian Classics

Handmade French Brioche

All About Brioche

Classic Holiday Cookie Box

Other Beginner Cooking Classes in Downtown Chicago

Comforting Cast Iron Classics

Filipino Comfort Cooking

Top-Notch Cutting Techniques

Learn to Make Fresh Dumplings

Knife Skills Booster

Bold Mediterranean Cooking

Seasonal Holiday Baking

Handmade Autumn Pasta

Elevated Cast Iron Cooking

Classic Latin-Inspired Tacos

Potsticker Dumpling Feast

Spanish Paella Party

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