FAQ

Q.) Are these classes for beginners?

A.) All our classes are intended for all levels of students, from beginners to experts. In every class you will learn the recipes from the menu for that day as well as many more tips and techniques for everyday cooking.

Q.) Are the classes hands on?

A.) We have kitchens dedicated to Totally Hands On classes as well as Demonstration classes at both locations. In our Totally Hands On classes, each student gets a chance to prepare (and eat!) the dishes from start to finish, while in our Demonstration classes each student gets to watch and learn from the chef instructor as he/she prepares the dishes before your eyes, and then serves tasting portions.

Q) How do I register for a class?

A.) Call Lincoln Square at 773.472.6700 or call the Merchandise Mart at 312.644.6360 to register for classes. We will ask for a credit card number to hold your reservation.

Q.) Will my credit card be charged?

A.) No we will not charge your credit card. You have the option to pay with cash, check, series, gift card or credit card on the day of class. We will only charge your card if you do not show up for class or if you cancel within 24 hours of class time (or within 2 weeks for classes that require it) without a replacement.

Q.) How much do I get to eat?

A.) During our Demonstration classes you will taste a healthy sampling of everything made in class. However in our Totally Hands On classes you will get the equivalent of a full meal. We also have special Demonstration classes that include a full meal such as Brunch at Lincoln Square and Friday Night Dinner Club at the Merchandise Mart.

Q.) How many people are in the classes?

A.) In Demonstration classes there are up to 14 spaces at Lincoln Square and 20 at the Merchandise Mart. In our Totally Hands On kitchen there is room for 16 at Lincoln Square and 12 at the Merchandise Mart.

Q.) What are my chances of getting in the class if I am on the waitlist?

A.) We always suggest signing up for the waitlist for any class, because there is a good chance of getting in and there is no commitment if you can’t make it. There are always cancellations up to the last minute. It also doesn’t hurt to call on the day of or day before a particular class to see if there are any last minute openings!

Q.) Do we need to bring anything to the class?

A.) You can bring your own beer or wine to class if you would like, and we offer wine for sale at Lincoln Square. You can purchase a variety of wines by the bottle including those specifically chosen to pair with your class recipes. We supply printed recipe handouts for our classes as well as notepads and pencils.

Q.) Is there a student discount for items in your store?

A.) On the day of class, students receive a 10% discount on all merchandise, except for what’s already been marked down. You also get a 15% discount on all items on the “Hot Table” which features many tools, ingredients, and equipment used in that day’s lesson. We carry all sorts of gourmet and ethnic ingredients, tools, and cookware in our retail store.

FAQ