Classes & Events

Join us for an exciting start to our Local Chef Series of Cooking and Baking experiences at The Joyful Gourmet! Experience the art of authentic Italian cannoli-making with Tony from Tony Cannoli in Mundelein! In this hands-on class, you'll learn to craft the perfect cannoli shell and fill it with your choice of delicious fillings. […]

Korean Bibimbap Lunch – Traditional Korean Rice Bowl with Marinated Beef- Hands On! Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that is simply wonderful – the hot stone bowl crisps the rice, then you add vegetables, a small amount of deliciously marinated beef, and top with an egg and some savory-spicy Gochujang sauce! It is delicious, […]

Join us for a hands-on gnocchi-making cooking class where food, fun, and friends come together! Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this experience is all about connecting over the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. Chef Drew will provide tips and techniques making it easy for you to recreate this meal […]

Get ready to raise a glass and ignite your taste buds in our Cooking Class! We're firing up the flavors with a menu that's sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your cravings. We'll start with a classic, beer-can chicken that's so moist and tender, you'll be hooked from the first bite. We're serving up […]

Summer Night in Provence: A French Cooking Experience Step into the warmth and romance of a Provençal evening with our Summer Night in Provence Cooking Class. As the sun sets and lavender-scented breezes fill the air, you'll be guided through a hands-on culinary journey inspired by the rustic flavors of southern France. In this intimate […]

Join us for another edition of our Local Chef Series of Cooking and Baking experiences at The Joyful Gourmet! We're excited for you to bring friends and family together with real Texas Style Brisket from Kevin Ledesma at Brisketeer BBQ. This genuine BBQ feast you will experience cutting into a fresh Brisket, Slaw, and Corn Bread […]

Korean BBQ, also known as "gogi gui" in Korean, is a popular dining experience that involves grilling various types of meat at the table. It's a social and interactive way of enjoying a meal, and it's widely enjoyed both in South Korea and around the world.  Tonight, Chef Laura will be introducing you to some […]

Roll up your sleeves and dive into a deliciously hands-on culinary adventure! In this class, you'll craft a rustic Panzanella Salad bursting with fresh veggies and toasted bread, followed by learning the art of making Homemade Fresh Fettuccine from scratch. Pair your pasta with a velvety Roasted Tomato Italian Sausage Sauce or a vibrant Sunflower Seed […]

Spanish Nights Escape to the vibrant flavors of Spain with this Chef's Table culinary experience that blends tradition with a modern twist. In this summer-inspired menu, Chef Lee Kuebler will walk through the steps as he prepares a refreshing Gazpacho with halibut ceviche, a cool and elegant first course perfect for warm evenings. Then, Chef Lee will […]

Gale Gand is an American pastry chef, cookbook author, and television personality.  She has been an executive pastry chef at several high end restaurants in the United States and has won several James Beard Foundation Awards for her work.  We are so grateful that she continues to share her passion for pastries through teaching at […]

Wondering what to do with the abundance of tomatoes from your garden?! This class is for you! Tomatoes are a versatile ingredient in many cuisines around the world.  They come in different varieties and colors,  some sweet and some tart.  Come join us for this class all about tomatoes and find a newfound appreciation for […]

Join us for a celebration of summer’s peak flavors, where the bounty of the farm meets the freshness of the sea. Chef Lee Kuebler embraces simplicity, balance, and the beauty of seasonal ingredients. After a unique Chef's Table experience you will be presented with a dish that’s light, bright, and full of coastal charm. Start […]

A good knife is an essential tool in the kitchen.  This beginner's class focuses on teaching you how to use a knife with confidence and ease.  By the end of class, you'll be equipped with the essential skills to chop vegetables like a pro! Participation: This is a hands-on class, each person will be handling […]

Experience a delightful evening at the Farmer’s Market Dinner, where Chef Andrew Kelly crafts a unique culinary journey inspired by the season’s freshest local ingredients.Relax and enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu that showcases the best of the harvest, offering a memorable dining experience in a charming, community-focused setting. Chef Kelly’s expertise and passion for farm-to-table […]

Sipping Through Summer: Craft Cocktail Making with Mixologist Shanna Shake, stir, and sip your way into the season with this hands-on summer cocktail experience led by expert guest mixologist Shanna! Whether you're a budding home bartender or just love a well-made drink, this fun and interactive class will teach you how to craft vibrant, seasonal […]

Sipping Through Summer: Craft Cocktail Making with Mixologist Shanna Shake, stir, and sip your way into the season with this hands-on summer cocktail experience led by expert guest mixologist Shanna! Whether you're a budding home bartender or just love a well-made drink, this fun and interactive class will teach you how to craft vibrant, seasonal […]

Bourbon Bliss: Embark on a Flavorful Journey with Our Cooking with Bourbon Class! Dive into the world of rich flavors toss a mixed green salad with a maple bourbon vinaigrette, sizzle up bourbon brined pork chops, and indulge in a delectable flourless chocolate cake drizzled with a bourbon caramel sauce. Join us for an evening […]

Step behind the scenes and into the heart of the kitchen with this intimate Chef’s Table cooking experience, where seasonal ingredients meet bold Mediterranean flair. Designed for curious palates and passionate home cooks, this hands-on class blends refined technique with rustic charm across a vibrant, fire-kissed menu. We’ll begin with a bright, textured shredded carrot […]