October is when we seriously huddle indoors, and that option has never been more attractive. To eat well despite the pandemic, there are online cooking classes, including several Chicago-centric ones, so that you might have a shot at preparing something that approximates what you order in a local restaurant.
1 The Chef and the Dish (Online) Sign up and you receive a shopping list and online directions for preparing any one of dozens of dishes, presented in concert with names in Chicago food, like J.P. Graziano, Bende, The Spanish Square and Mitsuwa.
2 The Chopping Block (Zoom) While closed, the Chopping Block store at Merchandise Mart presents Zoom classes given by chefs who lead cook-along classes for beginner as well as accomplished home chefs.
3 The Kid’s Table (Facebook Live) The Kid’s Table, a Chicago-based virtual cooking class for the young, is an excellent way to give the kids professionally guided kitchen experiences, as well as a sanity-supporting strategy for parents to get a few hours of respite.
4 The Social Table (Zoom) The Armitage location of the Social Table, closed but now reopened, continues online cooking classes for children and adults.
5 Le Cordon Bleu (Online) You have time on your hands, so why not get a culinary arts degree? Or at least take some classes? Get recreation, an education or both, online at any one of the Le Cordon Bleu locations, including the one in London.
Dining and Drinking Editor for Newcity, David also writes a weekly food column for Wednesday Journal in Oak Park and is a frequent contributor of food/drink and travel pieces to the Chicago Tribune, Plate Magazine and other publications. David has also contributed chapters to several books, including Street Food Around the World, Street Food, and The Chicago Food Encyclopedia. Contact: dhammond@newcity.com
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