STACY’S EASY MEALS!!
Tired of “mussel-ing” your way through the work week with the same ole same ole meals? Well check out this easy to the table, budget friendly, yet full of flavor menu that Chef Stacy has put together - it’s sure to break you out of the status quo weekly routine.
On The Menu – Mussels with Sausage and White Wine, Grilled Italian Bread and a Mixed Green Salad with White Wine Vinaigrette.
FUNGI FEST
Mushrooms and the benefits of mushrooms have become quite the “in” thing and Chef Lucio has created some truly delicious recipes with all thing’s “fungi”. We promise, you won’t be disappointed!
On the menu: Tuscan Butter Mushrooms, Truffle Lobster Gratin, and Roasted Garlic Portabellas
PASTABILITIES
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the delicious world of fresh pasta! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the foundations of pasta making—from kneading the perfect dough to shaping and cutting it into beautiful noodles and stuffed creations.
On the menu: Pumpkin Ravioli w/Hazelnut Crema, Pappardelle w/Arugula & Romano Oil and a Chef prepared salad.
AMERICAN AUTUMN FAVORITES
A Chicago autumn means the air is crisp and the leaves are turning to bright orange, red and yellow. Now is the time to get back into the kitchen and start warming up!
On the menu: Roasted Chicken, Fingerling Potato Salad and Sautéed Brussel Sprouts with Smoked Ham & Toasted Pecans.
Cooking w/the Kid(s)
Looking for a new outing for you and your child/teen? Well, you can be our guests for this evening of parent & child time. Create a fantastic meal with the guidance of our professional team and then sit down to enjoy your meal with your Junior Chef. Join us for this special afternoon of family and newfound friends.
On the Menu: Ham & Cheese Hot Pockets, Tomato Soup and Apple Crisp
STACY’S EASY MEALS!!
Everything doesn’t have to be made from scratch. In fact, I’d argue that making use out of the ingredients you have on hand and turning them into something delicious is even more impressive! Come learn how to turn your pantry/fridge/freezer ingredients into the star of the show – quickly, cost effectively and oh so tasty! You’ll learn how to take frozen gnocchi and make some incredible dishes.
On the Menu: Ravioli w/Walnuts & Garlic, Ravioli Soup w/Chicken & Spinach, and a salad w/Basil Vinaigrette
PUSHOVER FOR PASTA
There is nothing better than fresh pasta! You will be wowed when you see how easy it is to make, and you’ll never want to go back to boxed pasta again! Create the pasta from scratch and learn some mouthwatering sauces to accompany it.
On the menu: Pumpkin Ravioli in Cream Sauce, Pappardelle w/Turkey Bolognese and a Chef prepared salad.
MOLE MOLE
Get ready to spice things up in the kitchen! In this hands-on cooking class, we’ll dive into the rich and complex world of mole — one of Mexico’s most iconic and celebrated sauces. You’ll learn how to balance chiles, chocolate, nuts, and spices to create layers of deep, bold flavor.
On the menu: Chicken Molé, Creamy Rice & Beans, and Homemade Corn Tortillas.
FUNGI FEST
Brand new to the Cook, Cork & Fork kitchen!! Mushrooms and the benefits of mushrooms have become quite the “in” thing and Chef Lucio has created some truly delicious recipes with all thing’s “fungi”. We promise, you won’t be disappointed!
On the menu: Tuscan Butter Mushrooms, Truffle Lobster Gratin, and Roasted Garlic Portabellas
COOKING W/THE KID(S)
Looking for a new outing for you and your child/teen? Well, you can be our guests for this evening of parent & child time. Create a fantastic meal with the guidance of our professional team and then sit down to enjoy your meal with your Junior Chef. Join us for this special afternoon of family and newfound friends.
On the Menu: Calzones, Salad w/Homemade Ranch Dressing, and Apple Turnovers
COZY ITALIAN COOKING
Buon Appetito! Our Cozy Italian Cooking brings you layers of flavor and sends you back to Old World Italy.
On the Menu: Handrolled Pasta, Turkey Meatballs & Marinara, and a Béchamel Garlic Bread.
ITS ALL ABOUT THE CREPES
Back by popular demand! A little Savory, a little sweet. A French favorite, these light and fluffy treats are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
On the Menu: Loraine, Mushroom (Au Champignon) and Suzette Crepes.
Empanada Extravaganza
If you love empanadas (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), you’re gonna love this class! Dough, filling, repeat. Dough, filling, repeat. Learn the technique, then take home the recipes. There’s empa-NADA you won’t know after this class!
On the menu: Ham & Cheese fillings, Chorizo & Onion filling, and a Chef prepared salad
KNIFE SKILLS WORKSHOP
Be the knife of the party! And with kicked up knife skills you can do just that. Chop, mince, dice…and so much more. Learn proper techniques to not only make your time in the kitchen safer, but believe it or not, proper cuts do matter in recipes. And as a bonus, all the veg you’ll be cutting goes home with you along with a recipe to make a quick and easy homemade vegetable stock! How cool is that?
BAKED WITH LOVE
It’s all about a balancing act between time, temperature and ingredients. That’s the art of baking…along with a whole lotta love. And this season is truly the best time to work on that art.
On the menu: Apple Pie, Peppermint Lava Cake and Banana Bread.
PIEROGI PARTY
We’ve got the piero-KEY to your heart! This class unlocks the mystery of these little dumplings! Open new doors and new flavors with the how-to of pierogi making.
On the menu: Sauerkraut & Mushroom, Potato & Caramelized Onion and a Chef prepared salad.
LATIN LOVE
So many spices and so much taste! Take a journey through Latin America with this diverse and seasonal mouthwatering meal.
On the menu: Braised Pork “Cubano”, Vegetable Escabeche Stew, and Cornbread w/Chorizo Stuffing.
ED’S BREADS
Fall is here and it’s one of the best times to bake bread! Chef Ed has a serious love of bread (his favorite thing to eat!) and has spent many hours learning how to perfect the art of bread making. So, he’s going to share that passion with you, teaching you how to make 3 different types of “bread” using 3 different leavening agents: Pretzel Bread, Apple Tarts, and Irish Soda Bread.
SUSHI WORKSHOP
So many rolls, so little time – But during this class we’re making the time to show YOU how to become a master sushi chef! From maki rolls to nigiri, you’ll learn it all. And then you’ll sit down and enjoy your creations – you’ll never have to order out for sushi again! We use only sashimi grade tuna.
On the menu: Shrimp-Tuna-Tomago Nigiri and Spicy Tuna Uramaki Roll & California Maki Roll. Chef prepared Miso Soup.
FOR THE LOVE OF GNOCCHI
“noun plural | gnoc×chi | \ˈnȯ-kē, ˈnyȯ-, ˈnä-\ - small balls of dough made from potatoes or flour that are boiled in water and usually served with a sauce in Italian cooking...” And OH SO Much More. This Italian staple is a must in every cook’s repertoire.
On the menu: Ricotta Pumpkin w/Brown Butter Gnocchi & a Semolina Gnocchi w/Ragu sauce and a Chef prepared salad.
ITS A PIZZA KINDA NIGHT
Say “Cheese” – or pepperoni or hold the mushroom, or even extra pineapple please! This class “tops” them all when it comes to creating the perfect pizza night. Let us teach you how to be at the top of your class when it comes to pizza. Make the most amazing traditional pizza using our new Gozney Pizza Ovens! Make the dough, roll it, top it and cook it in these ripp’n hot pizza ovens. Along with a Caesar Salad.
SAVORY SEAFOOD
You’ll cook, taste, and enjoy a full seafood-inspired meal paired with complementary flavors that will make you feel like you’re dining seaside. Perfect for seafood lovers and home cooks ready to expand their culinary skills!
On the menu: Cioppino Blanco, Arroz con Mariscos, and Ensalada.
DATE NIGHT: FRENCH FINESSE
The fall colors are abundant at Versailles, and the last grape harvest of the season is upon us. Our Chef has created traditional fall favorites from the region. Join us for an evening of simple and elegant French cuisine.
On the Menu: Braised Provencal Chicken, Pan Roasted Vericots Herts, and Mashed Potatoes Gratin.
Cooking w/the Kid(s)
Looking for a new outing for you and your child/teen? Well, you can be our guests for this evening of parent & child time. Create a fantastic meal with the guidance of our professional team and then sit down to enjoy your meal with your Junior Chef. Join us for this special afternoon of family and newfound friends.
On the Menu: Turkey Pot Pie, Mashed Potatoes and Apple turnover
Empanada Extravaganza
If you love empanadas (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), you’re gonna love this class! Dough, filling, repeat. Dough, filling, repeat. Learn the technique, then take home the recipes. There’s empa-NADA you won’t know after this class!
On the menu: Ham & Cheese fillings, Chorizo & Onion filling, and a Chef prepared salad
COOKING W/THE KID(S)
Monkey-see, monkey-do! That’s how kids learn and with the guidance of our professional team and YOU, this hands-on class is just the perfect outing for you and your child/teen. Learn together and then dine together.
On the menu: Croque Monsieur, Ratatouille, and Nutella Crepes
THE ART OF SEAFOOD
Everywhere you look, people are singing the praises of seafood. It’s healthy, it’s usually light, and it’s ALWAYS delicious. And guess what, it’s surprisingly easy to cook! We’ll teach you how!
On the menu: Cioppino (Italian Seafood Stew), Baked Artichokes w/Crab, and Garlic Bread.
BEER & BAVARIAN TRADITIONS
Beer is a major part of German culture. And although the official end of Oktoberfest has come and gone, we’re celebrating all month long with our German beers and some new German cuisine.
On the menu: Bavarian Pretzel Crusted Pork Tenderloin w/Mustard Sauce, Braised Red Cabbage & Apple and Herb Spaetzle.
DATE NIGHT: RUSTIC ITALIAN
Buon Appetito! Who doesn’t want amore Italian food in their life? Join us for a night filled with Italian recipes that are sure to impress
even a true Italian! On the menu: Tuscan Beef Stew, John’s Pancetta-Cannellini & Kale Skillet, and Creamy Polenta.
90 SECOND PIZZA
Say “Cheese” – or pepperoni or hold the mushroom, or even extra pineapple please! This class “tops” them all when it comes to creating the perfect pizza night. Let us teach you how to be at the top of your class when it comes to pizza. Make the most amazing traditional pizza using our new Gozney Pizza Ovens! Make the dough, roll it, top it and cook it in these ripp’n hot pizza ovens. Along with a Caesar Salad.
COOKING W/THE KID(S)
Looking for a new outing for you and your child/teen? Well, you can be our guests for this evening of parent & child time. Create a fantastic meal with the guidance of our professional team and then sit down to enjoy your meal with your Junior Chef. Join us for this special afternoon of family and newfound friends.
On the Menu: Asian Meatballs, Fried Rice & Strawberry Jam Pies
SUSHI WORKSHOP
So many rolls, so little time – But during this class we’re making the time to show YOU how to become a master sushi chef! From maki rolls to nigiri, you’ll learn it all. And then you’ll sit down and enjoy your creations – you’ll never have to order out for sushi again! We use only sashimi grade tuna.
On the menu: Shrimp-Tuna-Tomago Nigiri and Spicy Tuna Uramaki Roll & California Maki Roll. Chef prepared Miso Soup.
MEXICAN FIESTA
It’s colorful, it’s spicy, it’s vibrant and it’s delicious! Mexican cuisine is one of our favorites and it’ll be one of your favorites too with this menu.
On the Menu: Pork “Al Pastor”, Papas Con Rajas, and Handmade Tortillas.
CREOLE COOKING
Creole cooking is savory and spicy. The mix of French influences and southern local markets bring menus that are rich in flavor and perfect to share with you.
On the Menu: Shrimp & Grits, Dirty Chicken & Rice, and Royal Street Beans.
GNOCCHI TIME
If you’re tired of paying top dollar for gnocchi at restaurants, it’s time to make your own. This Italian staple is a must in every cook’s repertoire.
On the menu: Malfatti w/Pancetta & Cherry Tomatoes, and a Ricotta Pumpkin Gnocchi w/Brown Butter Sauce.
FRENCH FINESSE
If you can’t get take your date to France, maybe you can at least learn a few French menus that you can cook together! Join us for an evening of simple and elegant French cuisine.
On the Menu: Garlic & Potato Soup, Poulet a L’estragon (Taragon Chicken), and Green Bean Sauté.
THAI ME UP!
Get ready to spice things up in the kitchen! Thai cuisine is all about balance—sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors coming together in perfect harmony. In this hands-on class, you’ll explore fresh herbs, bold seasonings, and traditional techniques that make Thai food so irresistible. You’ll chop, stir, and sizzle your way through authentic dishes that highlight the vibrant flavors of Thailand—then sit down to enjoy the feast you’ve created.
On the Menu: Panang Curry Mussels Stew, Lemongrass Stir Fry, and Coconut Rice.
TRACY’S PUERTO RICAN SURPRISE
Step into the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine with a menu that’s bold, soulful, and full of island flavor. Chef Tracy is excited to bring this menu of her favorite hometown recipes to you.
On the menu: Chuletas Fritas, Arroz con Gandules, and Plantains.
KNIFE SKILLS WORKSHOP
Be the knife of the party! And with kicked up knife skills you can do just that. Chop, mince, dice…and so much more. Learn proper techniques to not only make your time in the kitchen safer, but believe it or not, proper cuts do matter in recipes. And as a bonus, all the veg you’ll be cutting goes home with you along with a recipe to make a quick and easy homemade vegetable stock! How cool is that?
PIEROGI PARTY
We’ve got the piero-KEY to your heart! This class unlocks the mystery of these little dumplings! Open new doors and new flavors with the how-to of pierogi making.
On the menu: Sauerkraut & Mushroom, Potato & Caramelized Onion and a Chef prepared salad.
DATE NIGHT: LATIN LOVE
Latin America is bursting with culture, flavor, and spice—and that’s exactly what makes every bite so irresistible! This menu celebrates bold seasonings, fresh ingredients, and the vibrant culinary traditions of the region.
On the menu: Adobo Roasted Chicken Thighs, Quinoa & Black Bean Pot, and Mojo Pan Roasted Cauliflower.
MEDITERRANEAN FLAVORS
Mediterranean cuisine isn’t defined by a single culture—it’s a beautiful tapestry woven from centuries of cultural exchange and culinary influence. With its temperate climate and rich, fertile soil, the region brings us some of the world’s most vibrant and flavorful dishes. Come savor the flavors that celebrate tradition, community, and the art of simple, wholesome cooking.
On the Menu: Chicken & Tomatoes Stew, Eggplant & Barley Salad, and Rosemary Flatbread.
A JACQUES PEPIN DINNER CELEBRATION
Now you get to be part of an unforgettable evening honoring the legendary Jacques Pépin, one of the world’s most beloved chefs, teachers, and culinary icons. In partnership with four of the Daily Herald Cook of the Week contest winners, we’ll bring you up close to the artistry of the kitchen with an intimate, multi-course dinner inspired by Pépin’s timeless recipes and French technique. A portion of each registration will be donated to the Jacques Pépin Foundation, with additional opportunities to give back through our raffle featuring specially selected items in support of the foundation.
During this 5-course meal, you'll get to hear from 3 of the challenge winners and participants, along with Deb herself, as they prepare a menu that is Cook, Cork & Fork approved! You'll also get to hear from Jolene Allen, The Cork's resident wine nerd, as she leads us through a wine pairing for each course. Like we said, this event is going to be unforgettable and delicious!
On the menu:
- Baked French Onion Soup
- Beet, Walnut & Arugula Salad w/Honey Balsamic
- Baked Cod w/a Calamata & Tomato Tampanade
- Braised Short Ribs w/Brussel Sprouts
- Pear Tart w/Caramel Drizzle
90 SECOND PIZZA
Say “Cheese” – or pepperoni or hold the mushroom, or even extra pineapple please! This class “tops” them all when it comes to creating the perfect pizza night. Let us teach you how to be at the top of your class when it comes to pizza. Make the most amazing traditional pizza using our new Gozney Pizza Ovens! Make the dough, roll it, top it and cook it in these ripp’n hot pizza ovens. Along with a Caesar Salad.
GARDEN FUSION FEAST
This fun, fusion-inspired menu brings bold flavors and feel-good dishes to your table. Perfect for summertime! It’s a little cozy, a little fresh and a lot delicious.
On the menu: Baked Feta Pasta, Chicken Lettuce Cups, and Teriyaki Cauliflower Steaks.
COOKING W/THE KID(S) - FALL FUN
Looking for a new outing for you and your child/teen? Well, you can be our guests for this evening of parent & child time. Create a fantastic meal with the guidance of our professional team and then sit down to enjoy your meal with your Junior Chef. Join us for this special afternoon of family and newfound friends.
On the Menu: Stromboli, Tomato Bisque and Blueberry Pear Crisp.
MEDITERRANEAN SPICE & SMOKE
Journey to the sun-soaked coasts of the Mediterranean with a menu full of bold spices, vibrant textures, and soulful flavor.
On the Menu: Shawarma Chicken Stew, Halloumi Salad and Baba Ghanoush with Toasted Pita.
ED’S BREADS
Fall is here and it’s one of the best times to bake bread! Chef Ed has a serious love of bread (his favorite thing to eat!) and has spent many hours learning how to perfect the art of bread making. So, he’s going to share that passion with you, teaching you how to make 3 different types of “bread” using 3 different leavening agents: Pretzel Bread, Apple Tarts, and Irish Soda Bread.
SIZZLE ESPANA
Journey to the heart of Spain through its bold, colorful cuisine! Learn to balance all the ingredients that bring the spirit of Spain to life.
On the menu: Seafood Paella, Gazpacho Salad and Garbanzo Cazuela.
PIEROGI PARTY
We’ve got the piero-KEY to your heart! This class unlocks the mystery of these little dumplings! Open new doors and new flavors with the how-to of pierogi making.
On the menu: Sauerkraut & Mushroom, Potato & Caramelized Onion and a Chef prepared salad.
EMPANADA EXTRAVAGANZA
If you love empanadas (and let’s face it, who doesn’t?), you’re gonna love this class! Dough, filling, repeat. Dough, filling, repeat. Learn the technique, then take home the recipes. There’s empa-NADA you won’t know after this class!
On the menu: Ham & Cheese fillings, Chorizo & Onion filling, and a Chef prepared salad
SAVOR THE SEA: A SEAFOOD CELEBRATION
Calling all seafood lovers. This one is for you because we’ve some tips and tricks for ways to turn this healthy protein into something extraordinary. Trust us – it’s going to be fish-licious!
On the menu: Coconut Shrimp, Herb Noodles and Mussels Arrabiata.
JULIEANN GARDENS: FALL SALAD WORKSHOP
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create and take home your very own portable salad garden—planted with easy-to-grow, cool-season favorites like romaine, butterhead, spinach, and arugula.