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 on each course. Every course is paired with one glass of a specially selected wine, spirit, or beer. Participants must be 21 or older to register. Seating is limited. Registrations will be processed in the order received.

Waiting List

If you would liked to be placed on a waiting list for dinners that are currently full, please email Jennifer Lewis or call 217-786-2433.

Fall 2025 Dinners

All fall 2025 dinners are currently full. If you would liked to be placed on a waiting list, please email Jennifer Lewis or call 217-786-2433.

Fried Green Tomatoes - Southern Dinner – FULL

Gather around the table for a special Bistro Dinner with LLCC Culinary graduate Teela Markley, as she reimagines Southern favorites inspired by the 1990’s film Fried Green Tomatoes. With heart, history, and a dash of creativity, Teela brings classic comfort dishes to life in a meal that’s sure to stir up memories and spark conversation. Come hungry for Southern charm and hometown flavor!

• Instructor: Chef Teela Markley
• Date: Friday, Sept. 12, 2025
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $89 

Inside the Test Kitchen  – FULL

Join us for a flavorful evening with Chef Carrick Younkin, formerly of Sangamo Club and now leading innovation as a test kitchen chef with Sysco. LLCC is proud to host Chef Younkin who will showcase a hand-selected menu featuring premium products, seasonal ingredients, and the latest culinary trends. It’s the perfect night out for food enthusiasts, aspiring chefs, and anyone who loves to explore new flavors. 

• Instructor: Chef Carrick Younkin
• Date: Friday, Oct. 10, 2025
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $89

Stars Hollow  – FULL

Join local Chef Angelique for a multi-course dinner inspired by the beloved series Gilmore Girls, where food plays a starring role alongside quick wit and small-town charm. From diner-style comfort dishes to playful chef-driven creations, this meal captures the show’s spirited energy and love of all things delicious. Whether you’re a long-term fan or just here for the food, you’re in for a cozy, satisfying evening. This dinner includes fun cocktails, wine pairings and of course, coffee! 

• Instructor: Chef Angelique Christie
• Date: Friday, Nov. 14, 2025
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $89 

The Bayou Meets the World: A Global Dinner Experience  – FULL

Get ready for a flavorful journey at LLCC’s Bistro Dinner with Chef Howard Seidel! With decades of experience and a deep-rooted love for Cajun cuisine, Chef Howard brings bold flavors and global inspiration to the table. Drawing from his travels around the world, he blends tradition with creativity in every dish, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience that’s both comforting and adventurous. 

• Instructor: Chef Howard Seidel
• Date: Friday, Dec. 12, 2025
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $89

Spring 2026 Dinners

Registration for the spring 2026 dinners is open. You can register online or call 217-786-2433.

Carnival Celebration

Chef Howard returns for his popular Mardi Gras–inspired dinner! After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, he spent seven years in New Orleans before bringing those bold Cajun flavors home to Springfield, where he developed “Gumbo Ya Ya’s.” Celebrate this colorful evening with his famous gumbo, festive dishes, and a little trivia to keep the fun rolling.

• Instructor: Chef Howard Seidel
• Date: Friday, January 23rd
• Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $99

Valentine’s Dinner with Friends

Who says Valentine’s Day is just for couples? Gather your favorite people and join LLCC alum and local chef Ty Bergman for a festive multi-course dinner celebrating friendship, laughter, and indulgence. This year’s menu takes inspiration from everyone’s favorite treat, chocolate, featured in both sweet and savory dishes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy an evening of good food, great company, and the kind of love best shared around the table.

• Instructor: Chef Ty Bergman
• Date: Friday, February 13th
• Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $99

A Spring Evening

Chef Carrick Younkin returns for another unforgettable dinner celebrating the start of spring. Drawing on his creativity and experience as Sysco’s test kitchen chef, he’ll present a menu inspired by the fresh ingredients just beginning to emerge in March. It’s the perfect night out for anyone who loves discovering new flavors and the beauty of seasonal cooking.

• Instructor: Chef Carrick Younkin
• Date: Friday, March 27th
• Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $99

Traditional Wisconsin Supper Club Dinner

Supper clubs are more than just a place to eat; they’re a destination for an entire evening out. With their cozy atmosphere, nostalgic charm, and hearty American cuisine, these beloved establishments have long been gathering spots where friends meet, stories are shared, and community comes alive. Originating during the Prohibition era as hidden speakeasies, supper clubs evolved into cherished traditions across the Midwest. Join Wisconsin Chef Evan Wilson for a dinner that blends history, hospitality, and timeless flavors.

• Instructor: Chef Evan Wilson
• Date: Friday, April 17th
• Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Fee: $99

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.

If the class you are looking for is full, please email LLCC Community Education to be added to the waitlist.

Fall 2025

The Bread Code: Unlocking the Science of Dough

Delve into the science of bread baking and uncover the secrets behind perfect dough. This class will guide you through fermentation, gluten development, and baking techniques, giving you the knowledge to create exceptional loaves with confidence

• Instructor: Nicole Swartz
• Date: Saturday, Sept. 27
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-004

Sticky Fingers

Get ready to roll-up your sleeves and indulge your sweet tooth.  Learn the art of making soft, gooey cinnamon rolls from scratch, complete with a rich cream cheese frosting.

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Saturday, Oct. 4
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-005

Baking with Bacon

A fun and flavorful twist on classic baking! From sweet to savory and everything in between, discover how to infuse crispy, smoky bacon into irresistible baked goods.

• Instructor: Nicole Swartz
• Date: Saturday, Oct. 11
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-006

Sourdough Breads and More – FULL

Bake flavorful artisan loaves and explore creative ways to use discard in delicious recipes. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this class will help you build confidence in working with naturally leavened dough.

• Instructor: Charlyn Fargo-Ware
• Date: Saturday, Oct. 18
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-007

Store-Bought to Showstopper

Transform everyday store-bought ingredients into stunning, gourmet desserts that will impress any crowd. In this class, you’ll learn clever hacks and techniques to elevate simple items into masterpieces, all without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Saturday, Nov. 15
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-040

Macarons

One of our most popular classes is back! In this session, you’ll learn the secrets to mastering this classic French dessert. Whether you're a dessert enthusiast or a beginner, you’ll gain the skills to impress every time.

• Instructor: Nicole Swartz
• Date: Saturday, Nov. 8
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-009

Dog Treats

Join Natural Artistry owners Jim and Marty Boosinger in the kitchen to learn how to make a batch of treats for your four-legged friends.

• Instructor: Jim Boosinger
• Date: Saturday, Nov. 8
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-010

Thanksgiving Pie

Learn essential pie decorating techniques to take your homemade pies to the next level. From elegant lattice tops to beautifully designed edges, you'll discover ways to make your pies as stunning as they are delicious.

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Saturday, Nov. 22
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-011

Holiday Candies

Spend the morning transforming sugar and chocolate into your own handmade candy creations.

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Saturday, Dec. 6
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-012

Holiday Cookie Platter – FULL

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to bake and that’s exactly what we’ll do in this class! Everyone will bake a variety of delicious cookies that are sure to become new holiday favorites. Then, you’ll create a beautifully arranged cookie platter to share and enjoy.

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Thursday, Dec. 11
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-013

Yule Log – FULL

Bûche de Noël, or Yule log cake, is a cherished Christmas tradition. In this class, we’ll guide you step by step as you make, bake, fill, roll, and decorate your very own festive creation.

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Saturday, Dec. 13
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-014
   

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.

If the class you are looking for is full, please email LLCC Community Education to be added to the waitlist.

Fall 2025

International Sauces

Discover the flavors of the world through the art of sauce-making! In this class, you'll learn to create a variety of international sauces that will elevate your cooking and bring global flair to your kitchen.

• Instructor: Adam Maas
• Date: Friday, Sept. 19
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-018

Cooking with Cast-Iron – FULL

Learn how to create incredible dishes with this timeless kitchen tool while discovering expert tips for seasoning, cleaning, and maintaining your pans. Bring your own cast iron skillet or borrow one of ours and experience the versatility of cast iron firsthand.

• Instructor: Kim Carter
• Date: Thursday, Sept. 25
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-019

Salad For Dinner

Salads can be more than just a side! Learn to use a variety of ingredients to make a balanced salad for any meal.

• Instructor: Jan Dowell
• Date: Thursday, Oct. 9
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-020

Savor the Soups 

Join Chef 'Mama' Kim for another beloved class where she shares her secrets to crafting hearty and comforting soups that warm both the heart and soul. Don't miss the chance to learn how to prepare a variety of delicious, crowd-pleasing recipes.

• Instructor: Kim Carter
• Date: Thursday, Oct. 23
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-041

Comfort Foods

Join us for a warm and delicious cooking experience that’s all about classic, feel-good flavors! This class features homestyle favorites like crispy buttermilk fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and decadent red velvet cake with cream cheese icing.

• Instructor: Kim Carter
• Date: Thursday, Oct. 30
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-022

Holiday Side Dishes

Learn to create flavorful, festive favorites that will impress your guests and complete your holiday table.

• Instructor: LLCC Staff
• Date: Thursday, Nov. 20
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-023

Gourmet Pizza Night – FULL

Elevate your pizza game! Craft artisanal pizzas with gourmet toppings, flavorful sauces, and perfectly baked crusts in our stone-based ovens. A delicious, hands-on experience for pizza lovers!

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Thursday, Dec. 4
• Time: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-024
   

Work side-by-side with your child in these hands-on classes!

When registering, the fee for an adult with one child is $89. If registering a second child, there is an additional fee of $45. Register all participants at the same time (limit  of two children per adult). 

Fall 2025

Pasta for the Family

Team up with your child to mix, knead, and roll fresh pasta dough! Shape it into noodles and cook a delicious meal together.

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Saturday, Oct. 4
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Adults: 19 and over
• Course code: CEW 500-033
• Child: Ages 6-18
• 1st Child: YES 500-004, 2nd Child: YES 500-005, $45

Snow Globes

Create an edible winter wonderland using gingerbread, icing, and festive decorations, then package it inside a unique 'snow globe' for a magical holiday display.

• Instructor: Channing Fullaway-Johnson
• Date: Saturday, Dec. 6
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Adults: 19 and over
• Course code: CEW 500-034
• Child: Ages 6-18
• 1st Child: YES 500-006, 2nd Child: YES 500-007, $45

Christmas Cookie Decorating

Create special memories with your little chef as you roll, cut, and decorate cookies with colorful royal icing.

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Saturday, Dec. 13
• Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Adults: 19 and over
• Course code: CEW 500-035
• Child: Ages 6-18
• 1st Child: YES 500-008, 2nd Child: YES 500-009, $45

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.

If the class you are looking for is full, please email LLCC Community Education to be added to the waitlist.

Fall 2025

Octoberfest

Enjoy the flavors of Oktoberfest with friends! Cook hearty German dishes and savor a perfectly paired beer to complement your meal.

• Instructor: Paul Maisel
• Date: Thursday, Oct. 2
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-027

Harry Potter – FULL

One thing is for sure, there are many fun and flavorful recipes to be found in Harry Potter inspired cookbooks.  Sip on a cold “Butterbeer” while join us in our kitchen, located at platform 9 ¾.

• Instructor: Dustin Coons
• Date: Friday, Oct. 17
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-028

Olive Me Crazy-Greek

Fall in love with the vibrant flavors of Greek cooking! Learn how to prepare classic dishes that celebrate the Mediterranean's finest ingredients, including olives, fresh herbs, and hearty grains. This class will transport your taste buds straight to Greece!

• Instructor: LLCC Staff
• Date: Friday, Oct. 24
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-030

Bourbon Smash – FULL

Bourbon, bacon, and brown sugar take center stage in this indulgent and popular class. Explore the art of cooking with bourbon while learning about crafting a perfectly balanced cocktail.

• Instructor: Dustin Coons
• Date: Thursday, Nov. 13
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-031

French Bistro – FULL

Step into the charm of a French bistro, where you'll craft a menu inspired by French classics while enjoying a glass of wine. 

• Instructor: David Radwine
• Date: Friday, Nov. 21
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-035

Girls Night Out-Gingerbread Cookie Decorating

Gather your girlfriends for a fun and festive evening of gingerbread cookie decorating! Celebrate National Gingerbread Cookie Day by exploring your creativity with colorful icings, sprinkles, and edible décor to craft your own edible masterpieces.

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Friday, Nov. 21
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Course Code: CEW 500-032

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.

If the class you are looking for is full, please email LLCC Community Education to be added to the waitlist.

Fall 2025

Halloween Treats

Calling all ghouls, ghosts and goblins for a fun and festive day creating spooky Halloween treats. Costumes can be worn to class if children are able to work safely in the kitchen while wearing them.

• Instructor: Lakesha Jackson
• Date: Saturday, Oct. 25
• Time: 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 8-12
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Course Code: YES 500-002

Pizza

Get ready to knead, shape, and top your very own personal pizza with all your favorite ingredients.

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Saturday, Nov. 15
• Time: 9:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 10-18
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Course Code: YES 500-003