Cardinal Spirits
One great place to start is Cardinal Spirits, a local favorite known for its craft cocktails and inviting atmosphere. On occasion, they host cocktail classes designed for all experience levels; whether you’re a total beginner or a budding mixologist. During these hands-on sessions, you’ll learn the fundamentals of technique, explore ingredients, and pick up tips on everything from balancing flavors to creating the perfect garnish. Best of all, you’ll leave with recipe cards so you can recreate your favorite cocktails at home.
Click here for the Cardinal Spirits event calendar.
In The Kitchen
Photo from In The Kitchen
Another standout is In The Kitchen, where the focus goes beyond just recipes to the people behind them. It’s a thoughtful, community-driven experience that encourages you to explore different perspectives in the kitchen. Their classes feature a rotating cast of instructors, each bringing their own expertise, cultural influences, and personal approach to cooking. That means no two classes feel the same. You might learn a new technique one day and hear the story behind a dish the next.
Click here for classes at In The Kitchen.
Piccoli Dolci
Photo from Piccoli Dolci
For those craving a taste of Italy, Piccoli Dolci offers classes centered entirely around Italian cuisine. From crafting fresh pasta by hand to mastering delicate Italian pastries, each session dives into the techniques and traditions that define the cuisine. You can learn to make gnocchi from scratch, fill and shape ravioli, and build confidence working with classic ingredients.
Click here for classes at Piccoli Dolci.
Planted Bloomington
Photo from Planted Bloomington
If you’re looking to explore plant-based cooking, Planted Bloomington offers a class experience that goes beyond just the basics. Hosted in the Planted Kitchen next to the The Goat Conspiracy Sanctuary, these sessions focus on creating simple, flavorful plant-based meals that are easy to recreate at home. You’ll cook alongside others who are just as curious about plant-based eating, then sit down together to enjoy everything you’ve made. Tasting is half the fun! Along the way, you’ll pick up approachable recipes designed to fit into real, busy lives. To top it all off, each class ends with a visit to the sanctuary, where you can meet the goats and chickens, and soak in the peaceful setting.
Click here for classes at Planted Bloomington.
Want to Host Your Own Cooking Class?
Photo from Banneker Community Center
Banneker Community Center offers a unique and historic setting right in the heart of the community. Their spacious kitchen is complete with a full commercial setup, large island, television, blackboard, tables, and chairs making it an ideal spot to host your own cooking class, workshop, or food-focused event. Whether you’re a seasoned chef, a passionate home cook, or simply someone looking to bring people together over food, Banneker provides a versatile space to create your own hands-on culinary experience.
Click here to reserve the kitchen at the Banneker Community Center.
