LLCC Community Education offers fun, educational, non-credit culinary experiences! These include hands-on baking and cooking classes, demonstrations, dinners at Bistro Verde, special nights out, team building and and youth programs.
Local chefs and food experts share their knowledge on a variety of topics and experiences. As the community’s state-of-the-art learning center for culinary education, LLCC invites people of all ages and skills to join us.
- Hands-on Baking Classes: Our baking and pastry classes provide the perfect opportunity to learn to bake breads, pies, pastries and more — just like a professional baker! For ages 19 and over.
- Hands-on Cooking Classes: To be a great cook, you must first learn the basics! Join our culinary instructor for hands-on cooking classes on the skills every cook needs in their repertoire. For ages 19 and over.
- Parent & Me: Work side-by-side with your child in these hands-on classes!
- Special Night Out: Want to spend a fun night out with your friends or significant other? Then join us in the kitchen for a Special Night Out watching chef demonstrations, enjoying a cocktail, glass of wine or craft beer and preparing some of the dishes on the menu for a fun and tasty night out. Spirits, wine or beer is served; must be 21 to register. Alcohol is limited to two drinks per person.
- Youth: Designed specifically for budding young chefs ages 8-18, these classes are the perfect opportunity for youth to explore their interests and build their culinary skills.
You are encouraged to register early (at least one week in advance of class start date) as many classes fill quickly. For more information, call 217-786-2432 or email Community.Education@llcc.edu.
We’re excited to announce that culinary courses are now open for registration through our new enrollment system. This platform provides a fresh way to browse available classes and complete your registration. Take a look at our culinary programs, and start planning your culinary experiences!
Dinners at Bistro Verde
These dinners are multi-course dining experiences (not hands-on cooking classes). Each evening features a chef-curated menu, with the chef offering insightful remarks throughout the meal. Guests will also enjoy thoughtfully selected wine, spirit or beer pairings during the evening. Participants must be 21 or older to register. Seating is limited. Registrations will be processed in the order received.
Fall 2026 Dinners
Registration is open. You can register online or call 217-786-2433.
From Learning to Leading: A Chef’s Story
Chef Jamie Williams retired from the Army in 2021 before pursuing her culinary journey at LLCC. After earning an associate degree in culinary arts and certificates in baking and hospitality in 2024, she now serves as an assistant for Bistro Verde and teaches in both academic and community education. This dinner will reflect her journey, with each course telling her story through the dishes that challenged her, inspired her and ultimately shaped her as a chef.
- Instructor: Chef Jamie Williams
- Date: Friday, Sept. 18
- Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
- Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
- Fee: $99
A Taste of Autumn
Chef Ty Bergman, an LLCC alum and local chef who also serves as an adjunct culinary instructor, will present a refined menu focused on thoughtful preparation and layered flavors. A rich fall mushroom course will set the tone for the evening, with duck prepared two ways serving as a composed and memorable centerpiece, creating a memorable evening for both chef and guests.
- Instructor: Chef Ty Bergman
- Date: Friday, Oct. 16
- Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
- Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
- Fee: $99
Mediterranean Meets Cajun
Two distinct culinary traditions come together for an evening of bold flavor and thoughtful balance. This Mediterranean and Cajun fusion dinner explores the contrast between bright, coastal ingredients and the deep, soulful spice of Southern cooking. Each course blends techniques and flavors in ways that feel both familiar and unexpected. Join us for a vibrant, dynamic evening that celebrates the creativity of fusion cuisine.
- Instructor: Chef Howard Seidel
- Date: Friday, Nov. 13
- Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
- Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
- Fee: $99
Holiday Favorites
Celebrate the season with an elevated take on holiday classics, thoughtfully reimagined by Chef Carrick Younkin. This multicourse bistro dinner brings together the warmth and nostalgia of traditional favorites with refined techniques and modern presentation. Each course highlights rich, seasonal flavors and elegant touches, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and indulgent. Gather around the table for a festive evening where comfort meets sophistication, perfect for savoring the spirit of the holidays.
- Instructor: Chef Carrick Younkin
- Date: Friday, Dec. 11
- Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
- Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
- Fee: $99
