These dinners are multi-course dining experiences (not hands-on classes). The chef offers remarks on the menu selection for each course. One glass of wine, spirits or beer will be served with each course. Participants must be 21 to register. Please note that 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.

Spring 2024 Dinners

Register for Spring Dinners   

A Journey Through Early 20th Century Midwest Cookbooks

Chef Adam Maas is the owner of Good Decisions located at Danenberger’s Family Vineyards in New Berlin. He has traveled and worked around the world and his specialty brunches and theme dinners at the vineyard are currently receiving great reviews. He describes this dinner as an “unique evening of elevated dishes inspired by his grandmother’s cookbooks.”     

• Chef: Adam Maas
• Date: Fri., May 10
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m. 
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, Room 1103
• Fee: $89

Fall 2024 Dinners

All fall 2024 dinners are currently full. If you would liked to be placed on a waiting list, please email Jennifer Lewis or call 217-786-2433.

Fusion Cuisine Dinner - FULL

Chef Howard is known for his popular dinners featuring the flaors of New Orleans. In retirement, he’s traveling and experiencing cuisine from around the world.  Chef Howard will prepare some of his favorite dishes from his travels composed of flavors and cuisines from around the world.

• Chef: Howard Seidel
• Date: Fri., Sept. 13
• Time: 5:3-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, Room 1103
• Fee: $89

All Pork Dinner - FULL

Chef Kevin Sullivan, chef owner of Providers Supper Club, hosts multi-course pop-up dinners all over the Midwest.  His dinners feature local farm raised meats and produce.  In celebration of National Pork Month with the Illinois Pork Producers and local farms, Chef Kevin Sullivan will showcase all the ways to utilize a whole hog. 

• Chef: Kevin Sullivan
• Date: Fri. Oct. 18
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, Room 1103
• Fee: $89

Corkscrew Wine Dinner - FULL

The Corkscrew Wine Emporium of Springfield is partnering with us for this wine focused dinner. An evening of wine education gives you the opportunity to learn why a wine variety like chardonnay tastes different depending on the region it comes from. You’ll taste the differences in the pairings they have selected to accompany each prepared course. Chef and menu to be determined.  

• Instructor: LLCC Staff
• Date: Fri. Nov. 8
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, Room 1103
• Fee: $89

Smoked Dinner - FULL

Did you know you can add excitement to dishes by incorporating smoked oil or smoked salt to add another layer of flavor? We will start the evening with a smoked cocktail then Lincoln Land Alum Chef Marcus Holmes will intrigue your pallet with a menu featuring a smoked element in each of courses, even dessert!

• Chef: Marcus Molmes
• Date: Fri. Dec. 13
• Times: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Location: Bistro Verde, Workforce Careers Center, Room 1103
• Fee: $89

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.

Spring 2024

Cheesecake

Cream cheese, sour cream and even ricotta can all be used to make a variety of sweet, savory, rich and creamy cheesecakes. Discover the methods to make the perfect cheesecake.

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Sat., April 6, 2024
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Ages: 19 and over 
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-19

Pop Tarts

You’re never too old to enjoy a pop tart. Check out these grown-up versions of the toaster pastry. With both sweet and savory fillings wrapped in golden flakey pastry, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making these handheld breakfast treats all along.

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Sat., April 20, 2024
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-24

Tarts and Galettes

Tarts are a close cousin to the classic American pie, and galettes are similar to a tart. However, the crusts, the fillings and the baking methods between tarts and galettes create two distinct desserts. Explore the variety with us.

• Instructor: Charlyn Fargo-Ware
• Date: Sat., May 4, 2024
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-26

Fall 2024

Pretzels

Learn the technique for making dough, rolling, shaping, boiling and baking pretzels at home.  Prepare accompanying dips.

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Sat. Sept. 14
• Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-001

Gluten Free Desserts

Quick breads, cookies, and coconut macaroons are easily transformed into delicious tasting desserts with a great texture, so smooth and chewy that you won’t even be able to tell they are gluten free!

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Sat., Sept. 21
• Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, room 1121
• Ages: 19 and over.
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-002

Macarons

We are excited to introduce Caitlyn Weiss, owner of Mad Macs, as our new instructor for one of our most popular classes.  Caitlyn will show you all the professional tips and tricks to baking the perfect macaron.

• Instructor: Caitlyn Weiss
• Date: Sat. Sept. 28
• Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Cost: $69
• Course Code: CEW 500-003

• Instructor: Caitlyn Weiss
• Date: Sat. Nov. 2
• Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Cost: $69
• Course Code: CEW 500-007

Autumn Spice

Nothing beats the smell of warm spiced baked goods on a crip fall day. We will bake a variety of sweets with the seasonal flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin and more.

• Instructor: Jolene Lamb
• Date: Sat. Oct. 5
• Time: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Cost: $69
• Course Code: CEW 500-004

Sourdough Breads

In this class you will bake a loaf of sourdough bread, make your own starter to take home and explore a baked goods recipe that uses discarded started to add flavor.

• Instructor: Charlyn Fargo-Ware
• Date: Sat, Oct 12
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Cost: $69
• Course Code: CEW 500-005

Palmiers

Simple yet complex, this French classic is also known as an Elephant Ear, Butterfly cookie or Palm leaf. These pastries have all the crispy, flakey, buttery and sugary goodness that everyone desires.

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Sat, Oct 19

• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Course Code: CEW 500-006

Crème Brulee

Five simple ingredients: cream, vanilla, salt, eggs and sugar come together to make a rich and elegant dessert. With its signature caramelized top, this dessert can be flavored with classic vanilla, or non-traditional flavors such as blood orange.

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Sat, Nov 9
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Course Code: CEW 500-008

Chocolate Techniques

Learn the techniques of a chocolatier to make ganache and learn how to temper chocolate.

• Instructor: Ty Bergman
• Date: Thu, Nov 14
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Course Code: CEW 500-009

Thanksgiving Pie

It’s tradition to serve pie at your Thanksgiving feast.  Learn to make the perfect decorated crust and wow your guests with the perfect pie.

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Sat, Nov 23
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-010

Dinner Rolls

Serve your own homemade rolls this Thanksgiving. Learn what it takes to mix, knead, proof, portion and bake up the perfect yeast dinner roll.  

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Sat, Nov 23
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Course Code: CEW 500-011

Buche de Noel

Bûche de Noël or yule log cake is a Christmas tradition. We will show you step by step how to make, bake, fill, roll and decorate your very own.

• Instructor: Stephanie Warren
• Date: Sat, Dec 7
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Course Code: CEW 500-012

Holiday Candy

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

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Sat, Dec 7
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-013

Holiday Cookies

It’s the most wonderful time of the year to bake, and that’s just what we will do in the class featuring a variety of cookies that will become your new holiday favorites.

• Instructor: Lindee Hall-Pratt
• Date: Thu, Dec 12
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• 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.

Spring 2024

Spring Flavors

Shake off the hearty winter flavors and lean into the bright refreshing dishes of spring. Use seasonal flavors to wake up the palate from its long winters nap.

• Instructor: Kevin Sullivan
• Date: Thu., April 11, 2024
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-20

Smoothies and Energy Bars

Learn to make a variety of tasty smoothies and energy bars that are perfect for a healthy meal or snack on the go.

• Instructor: Charlyn Fargo-Ware
• Date: Sat., April 13, 2024
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-21

Mushroom Cultivation

Owner of Natural Artistry, Chef Jim has been growing and cultivating mushrooms locally. Learn the process of growing edible mushrooms at home and then prepare savory mushroom dishes to enjoy in class.

• Instructor: Jim Boosinger
• Date: Thu., April 18, 2024
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Course code: CEW 500-23

Fall 2024

Cheese Making

Learn to make a quick farmers cheese from a few ingredients and in less than one hour. Then build flavor with sweet or savory ingredients and use the fresh cheese in quick dish to taste your results.  

• Instructor: Ty Bergman
• Date: Thu, Aug 29
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-015

Pizza Night

Make a high quality pizza dough from scratch, then use it to prepare a classic Neapolitan style pizza and a non-traditional pizza with caramelized onions, ricotta and chard.

• Instructor: LLCC Staff
• Date: Fri, Aug 30
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-016

Budget Meals

Feeding a family on a budget can be challenging.  But with a little creativity and flavor, you can shop for budget friendly ingredients that go a long way and even use leftovers to recreate new meals so good your family won’t know they came from leftovers.

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Thu, Sep 5
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-017

Meal Prep Workshop

Spend the morning in meal prep mode. In this workshop, you’ll work as a team to prepare several 4 person serving size meals.

• Instructor: Kim Carter
• Date: Sat, Sep 7
• Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $89
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-018

Pasta From Scratch

Explore the art of pasta making. Prepare and use your fresh pasta dough to create amazing dishes in class.

• Instructor: Kim Carter
• Date: Thu, Sep 26
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-019

Squash It

Cooking new foods can be intimidating, but you are going to squash this class!  We will highlight unique ways to prepare fall and winter squashes.  Join us to learn how to make squash the star of the plate.

• Instructor: Channing Fullaway-Johnson
• Date: Thu, Oct 3
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-020

Cast Iron Cooking

Learn how to make a variety of amazing dishes with this versatile pan. You will also learn the important care, maintenance and how to season your pans. Bring in your own cast iron skillet or use one of ours during the class.

• Instructor: Kim Carter
• Date: Thu, Oct 10
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-021

Hearty Whole Grains

Crisp autumn weather calls for hearty soups and stews. Learn how to bulk them up with whole grains. Even salad can get a seasonal makeover with the addition of hearty whole grains.

• Instructor: Jan Dowell
• Date: Thu, Oct 24
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-022

Soups On

Chef “Mama” Kim is known for her hearty and heartwarming soups. Join her for another popular class preparing a variety of soups.

• Instructor: Kim Carter
• Date: Thu, Nov 7
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-023

Holiday Appetizers

Learn the art of making party appetizers for all your holiday gatherings.

• Instructor: Channing Fullaway-Johnson
• Date: Thu, Nov 21
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 19 and over
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• 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 $55. If registering a second child, there is an additional fee of $25. Register all participants at the same time (limit  of two children per adult). 

Fall 2024

Christmas Cookie Decorating

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Make special memories with your little chef as you decorate prepared cookies with royal icing.  

• Instructor: Teela Markley
• Date: Sat, Dec 14
• Time: 9:30 a.m-12:30 p.m.
• Course Codes and Fees: CEW 500-034 $89 (19 an over)
• YES 500-001, $0 (ages 6-18) 
• YES 500-002, $45 (2nd child, ages 6-18)
   

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.

Spring 2024

Tequilla

No longer just for spring breakers doing shots, agave spirits like mezcal and tequila are now recognized and appreciated by cocktail enthusiasts for their complexity and versatility. But did you also know that tequila is also a surprisingly versatile ingredient for use in sweet and savory cooking? With sweet, spicy, floral, smoky and citrus notes, tequila can add flavor and richness to a wide variety of recipes. Learn to cook with tequila and mix up the perfect cocktail.

• Instructor: Lauren Schuester
• Date: Thu., April 4, 2024
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Course code: CEW 500-18

Fabulous French

Chef David Radwine knows the art of French Cooking. He once met Julia Child herself. Join David in the kitchen to prepare a fabulous French foods while you sip on a glass of old world wine.

• Instructor: David Radwine
• Date: Fri., April 19, 2024
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Course code: CEW 500-06

Rum Runner

Caramel, fruity, woody, sugar, vanilla, molasses and smooth are just a few words to describe the taste of rum. Explore the world of rums by crafting cocktails and preparing fruit forward dishes, including the classic pairing of fresh pineapple and rum.

• Instructor: Lauren Schuester
• Date: Thu., May 9, 2024
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Course code: CEW 500-27

Fall 2024

Farm Fresh Produce

Chef Kevin Sullivan is well known for working with local farms. Join him and a guest farmer as they show you the amazing dishes that can be made from the local produce of the autumn harvest.

• Instructor: Kevin Sullivan
• Date: Fri, Aug 23
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-025

Girls Night Out

Learn to make some fun party cocktails, ideal for a girls’ night and prepare tasty appetizers with Chef Lakesha for the perfect party.

• Instructor: Lakesha Jackson
• Date: Fri, Sep 6
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-026

Harry Potter

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 you make everything from dinner to dessert. Join Chef Dustin Coons in our kitchen, located at platform 9 ¾.

• Instructor: Dustin Coons
• Date: Thu, Sep 19
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-027

Steak Night

A classic date night dish – restaurant style steak.  Prepare your own steak dinner with guidance from Chef Marcus Holmes. Then, dine with a perfectly paired red wine.

• Instructor: Marcus Holmes
• Date: Fri, Sep 20
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-028

Show Me The Honey

Join Chef Kevin Sullivan for a sweet night of savory dishes featuring honey. Learn what the buzz is about local honey while enjoying a sampling of mead.  

• Instructor: Kevin Sullivan
• Date: Fri, Sep 27
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-029

Chef on a Budget

Chef Kevin Sullivan will show you how to make budget friendly, chef inspired meals from economical cuts of meat like chuck roast and pork loin. Explore delicious wines under $15.

• Instructor: Kevin Sullivan
• Date: Fri, Oct 11
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-030

Mediterranean

The lands bordering the Mediterranean Sea have distinct regional cuisines. David Radwine will show you the secrets of Mediterranean cuisine with an inspired menu featuring a variety of regional influences and wines.

• Instructor: David Radwine
• Date: Thu, Oct 17
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-031

Bourbon Smash

Bourbon, bacon and brown sugar are the shining stars of this menu. Salad with a bourbon vinaigrette and candied bacon, bourbon and orange glazed bacon wrapped pork, caramelized onion and bacon jam, chocolate bourbon pecan tarts, and bourbon cocktails.

• Instructor: Dustin Coons
• Date: Fri, Oct 25
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-032

Farm Fresh Meats

Have you tried locally raised meats? Join Chef Kevin Sullivan in preparing dishes featuring meats from central Illinois farmers and learn how to source their products at local stores and straight from the farm. Cocktails made from Illinois produced spirits will be enjoyed.

• Instructor: Kevin Sullivan
• Date: Fri, Nov 22
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1107
• Course Code: CEW 500-033

Our newest series combines two American favorites: food and television! The influence of food on pop culture is always at hand, and it certainly has made some memorable television moments. Iconic food scenes are our inspiration for the following classes. For ages 19 and over.

Check back for upcoming classes!

Expand your wine knowledge from grape to glass with Dr. Geoff Bland.  Geoff started the Corkscrew Wine Emporium in 1994.  He has extensive knowledge and expertise in wine.   He sold the Corkscrew in 2016 to long term store sales manager Danielle Anderson.  Geoff continues to organize dinners and special tastings for the store.    Join Geoff in this informative series.   Each session will include tastings of multiple wines and delicious appetizers.

Spring 2024

Pinot Noir Around the World

• Instructor: Geoff Bland
• Date: Tue., April 16, 2024
• Time: 6-8 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, W1103
• Ages: 21 and over
• Cost: $79
• Course code: CEW 500 22 

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.

Also, check out the summer College for Kids culinary offerings for students entering into grades 5-8.

Spring 2024

Cupcakes for Mom

Bake a batch of delicious cupcakes then decorate and package them to look like a beautiful bouquet of flowers to give to mom on her special day.

• Instructor: Jolene Lamb
• Date: Sat., May 11, 2024
• Time: 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room 1121
• Ages: 8-17
• Cost: $69
• Course code: YES 500-03

Fall 2024

Halloween Treats

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

• Instructor: Lakesha Jackson
• Date: Sat, Oct 26
• Time: 9:30 a.m-12:30 p.m.
• Ages: 8-12
• Cost: $69
• Location: Workforce Careers Center, Room W1121
• Course Code: YES 500-003