Cooking Class Info
"Food is a catalyst for friendship... we promote that philosophy with intimate classes and a low key atmosphere" Shelley Young, Owner

Class Times & Tuition
Our classes our offered every day. See our class calendars for specific dates and times, and read our FAQ for more answers.

Tuition
The following are class tuitions, unless stated otherwise on our class calendar:

  • Demonstration Classes: $40
  • Hands-On Classes: $75
  • Wine Classes: $60

Note: "Focus On" classes, Boot Camp, and Mini Boot Camp have different price structures. Please check the individual class or program.

Student Discount
Any time you take a class at the Chopping Block you receive a 10% discount on all regularly priced merchandise and wine by the bottle in our gourmet retail store on the day of class. Your instructor will also offer a 15% "hot table" discount on selected retail items that are featured in class.

Reservations and prepayment for classes required

All classes may be subject to cancellation or rescheduling by the Chopping Block.

Building Block Series An intense six-month series providing one of the city's most comprehensive nonprofessional culinary training programs. Students can either take individual classes to sharpen certain skills, or they can complete the entire series for complete culinary proficiency. This series is created for both novices who need a "crash course" to learn all the basics, as well as for professionals seeking to hone and enhance their knowledge. Click here for more info.

Corkage Fee
The Chopping Block provides you with a hand-picked list of food friendly wines to enjoy during your class, as well as a small selection of craft beers. If however, you have a special bottle that you would like to bring, please keep in mind that a $10 per bottle of wine and $5 per six pack of beer corkage fee will be applied to your class fee.

Downtown Parking Info
The Merchandise Mart is conveniently located near several downtown parking facilities, including an indoor garage and an outdoor lot right at the corner of Kinzie and Wells Street. Discounted rates at both facilities are offered after 3pm. Metered street parking can also be found in the area. After 6pm, customers can park at no charge in the "Red Tag Permit Parking" which can be accessed from Orleans Street or the main entrance of the Mart off of Wells Street.

Cancellation Policy
In order to keep our classes comfortable and to preserve our chef to student ratio we must impose a cancellation policy. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

A two week notice is required for cancellation of any class. If you do not cancel by telephone at least 2 weeks in advance of your scheduled class, we will charge your credit card in full for the class. Please feel free to send a friend in your place.

Please call us at 773-472-6700 with any questions, concerns or cancellations.

Classes taught by
Ginna Haravon (GH)
Diana Hamann (DH)
Michele Glancey (MG)
Abbatt Story (AS)
Joey Hahn (JH)
Hillary Finch (HF)
Karl Deuben (KD)
Ariel Bagadiong (AB)
Linnzie Payne (LP)
Sara Salzinski (SRS)
Courtney Sloan (CS)
Carolyn Maniaci (CM)
Ed Gardner (EG)
Rachel Humphrey (RH)
Quincy Bissic (QB)
Kim Patterson (KP)
Kathleen Lunetto

Private Parties
Put yourself in our hands for your very own custom cooking class for any occasion:

  • Corporate Team Building
  • Bridal Shower
  • Bachelor/ette Party
  • Birthdays
  • Intimate dinner part

We supply cooking instruction, informal service, great food and clean up. Educate your guests while enjoying an evening in our comfortable kitchen. Click here for more info.

For printable copies of our class calendars, click below.
Lincoln Square, May 2008

Merchandise Mart, May 2008