The Chopping Block

The Chopping Block is a renowned culinary school located in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood at 4747 N Lincoln Avenue. Specializing in hands-on cooking education, the school offers comprehensive cooking classes, wine and spirits classes, and dedicated programs for kids, teens, and families.

The kids and teen programs feature engaging, skill-building cooking camps and classes designed for young chefs ages 7-17. Kids’ classes (ages 7-12) and teen classes (ages 13-17) are tailored to appropriate skill and attention levels, ensuring students stay engaged, safe, and inspired. Students learn essential kitchen skills including knife techniques, baking basics, safe cooking methods, and explore diverse cuisines from homemade pasta to global dishes.

All tools and ingredients are provided, with classes being completely hands-on rather than demonstrations. Under close supervision from experienced chefs, children prepare recipes themselves while building confidence in the kitchen. The school offers both summer and winter break cooking camps where young chefs can make new friends while creating delicious dishes.

Family cooking classes are available for children ages 6 and up with their favorite grown-ups, providing opportunities to cook, laugh, and learn together. The Chopping Block also offers boot camps for intensive culinary training, private event hosting, and culinary travel experiences to destinations like Ireland, Tuscany, and Iceland.

The school has earned recognition as Best Cooking Classes by the Chicago Reader and maintains memberships with the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP). Students and families have praised the well-organized programs, fun and knowledgeable instructors, and the quality of recipes and techniques taught.