FAQ
Browse through our frequently asked questions to find answers about our cooking classes, private events, pricing and more!
GENERAL FAQ:
Are your classes hands-on?
Yes, all of our classes are led by a private chef. However, the attendees make each cuisine item and eat the food they create!
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What is the setup for public classes? Do I need to come with someone else or in an even number group?
We set up our stainless-steel prep tables so each attendee works with a partner to create and eat what they cook. You are welcome to come by yourself or in an odd-numbered group. However, you will likely be paired with another person in the class to cook. If you come with a partner or even numbered group, you can choose who you sit/cook with!
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How many people are in your public classes?
We require a minimum of 12 attendees to run a class, and our class maximum depends on the menu but is usually around 18 people.
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Can you make modifications for those with food restrictions?
It depends on the class. Please email info@cookingskillsacademy.com to ask about a specific class. For instance, we can easily make most of our Asian menus vegetarian but cannot accommodate a vegetarian for one of our steak classes. Some classes are also naturally Gluten-Free or Dairy Free, so emailing to confirm before registering is best.
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Can I bring in outside food?
We do not allow any outside food to be brought in, except for birthday cakes/dessert. If you are celebrating a birthday, feel free to bring a cake or other dessert.
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Can I rent your facility for an event?
Absolutely! Please see our Private Events page. We offer cooking events led by our staff or facility rentals, where you just rent the space for your own event use.
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Can I bring my child to a class?
YES! We allow children to attend as long as their legal guardian attends with them, and both are ticket-paying attendees. We ask that you use judgment and that your child is mature enough to attend and participate in class without distracting others. **This excludes our Mixology classes. You must be 21 or older to attend these.
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Do you provide non-alcoholic drinks?
Yes, self-serve water and hibiscus iced tea are available for each class. Please feel free to bring sodas, juices, or alcohol if you would like to partake in other drinks, as we are BYOB.
PRIVATE EVENTS FAQ:
How can I reserve a date/time for my event?
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to book your event. The remaining balance plus 18% gratuity is due one week prior to the event. All payments are made electronically, and invoices are sent via email.
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How do you handle food restrictions for members of my group?
We are happy to accommodate the following food restrictions: Vegetarian, Gluten Free and Dairy Free. Please tell us the number of people with these restrictions by one week prior to the event. Our chef makes a modified portion that meets the requirements for this participant.
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Can I come to see the facility before the event?
Yes! We encourage Site Visits and can be flexible about your availability.
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What's the easiest way to get our BYOB items to the facility?
You can order from Binny's (Glen Ellyn location delivers to us) or bring the items yourself prior to the event. We are open 9 am-5 pm Monday-Friday, and our receptionist can accept the delivery.
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What's the smallest and largest size group you can accommodate?
We accept a group as small as 6 guests. However, our minimum is $1000. We can accommodate up to 80 people indoors for our Iron Chef Battle or Social Event Options. Our Cooking Class option maxes out at 35 guests.
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Do I have to divide my group into teams?
No, our staff takes care of that during the event.
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Can I see all the options for menus?
We have 4 main cuisine options for both Cooking Classes and Iron Chef Battles: American, Japanese, Italian and Chinese. Menu details and decisions are shared after the initial deposit is made.
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What is included in the price per person cost?
Facility rental, private chef, all kitchenware and supplies, the main course for all participants, and a full beverage station with ice, water, iced tea and sodas.
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Can I add other items to our meal?
Yes, we share an Add-On Options list after your date is reserved, which includes options for Appetizers, Salads and Desserts.