Master the Art of Cooking

Transform your culinary skills with professional cooking classes, private chef services, and corporate catering from Chicago's premier culinary experts. From beginner basics to advanced techniques, discover the joy of exceptional cooking.

Start Your Culinary Journey

About Cooking Leader

Founded in 2015, Cooking Leader has been Chicago's premier destination for culinary education and professional chef services. Our journey began with a simple mission: to make exceptional cooking accessible to everyone, from complete beginners to aspiring professional chefs.

With over 8 years of experience, our team of certified culinary instructors brings together diverse expertise from top restaurants, culinary schools, and international cuisine traditions. We've successfully trained over 2,500 students and provided private chef services for more than 1,000 events.

Our state-of-the-art kitchen facilities in downtown Chicago feature professional-grade equipment, allowing students to learn with the same tools used in top restaurants. Whether you're looking to improve your home cooking, launch a culinary career, or host an unforgettable dinner party, we provide the expertise and personalized attention you need to succeed.

At Cooking Leader, we believe that great cooking is about more than just following recipes—it's about understanding ingredients, mastering techniques, and developing your own culinary voice. Join our community of passionate food lovers and discover what you can create.

Professional chef teaching cooking class

Why Choose Cooking Leader?

👨‍🍳

Expert Instructors

Learn from certified professional chefs with years of restaurant and culinary school experience. Our instructors are passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping you succeed.

🏆

Proven Results

Over 2,500 successful students and 98% satisfaction rate. Our structured curriculum and hands-on approach ensure you master essential cooking skills quickly and effectively.

🍽️

Professional Kitchen

Train in our fully equipped professional kitchen with commercial-grade equipment. Experience cooking in a real restaurant environment that prepares you for any culinary challenge.

Our Services

Group cooking class

Group Cooking Classes

Join our popular group cooking classes where you'll learn essential techniques, knife skills, and classic recipes in a fun, social environment. Perfect for beginners and intermediate cooks looking to expand their skills.

From $85/class
Private chef service

Private Chef Services

Experience restaurant-quality dining at home with our private chef services. Perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or regular meal preparation. Customized menus available for all dietary preferences.

From $200/event
Corporate catering

Corporate Catering

Elevate your business events with our professional catering services. From executive lunches to company celebrations, we provide exceptional food and professional service that impresses clients and employees.

From $35/person
One-on-one cooking lesson

Private Cooking Lessons

Get personalized instruction with our one-on-one cooking lessons. Tailored to your skill level and interests, these sessions provide focused learning on specific techniques, cuisines, or dietary requirements.

From $150/session
Culinary team building

Team Building Events

Strengthen team bonds with our interactive cooking team building experiences. Groups work together to create delicious meals while developing communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving skills.

From $95/person
Specialty cuisine workshops

Specialty Workshops

Master specific cuisines and advanced techniques in our specialty workshops. From Italian pasta making and French pastry to Asian stir-fry and BBQ smoking, explore the world through cooking.

From $120/workshop

What Our Clients Say

"Cooking Leader completely transformed my relationship with cooking. I went from ordering takeout every night to preparing restaurant-quality meals at home. The instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and truly passionate about teaching."
Sarah Martinez

Sarah Martinez

Marketing Executive
"The private chef service for our anniversary dinner was absolutely incredible. Chef Michael created a personalized menu that exceeded all expectations. Every dish was perfectly executed and beautifully presented."
David Johnson

David Johnson

Business Owner
"Our corporate team building event was a huge success! The Cooking Leader team facilitated an engaging experience that brought our department together while learning valuable cooking skills. Highly recommend!"
Amanda Chen

Amanda Chen

HR Director
"I've taken several specialty workshops here, including the pasta making and French pastry classes. Each one has been expertly taught with clear instructions and hands-on practice. Worth every penny!"
Robert Taylor

Robert Taylor

Food Enthusiast
"The group cooking classes are so much fun! I've met wonderful people and learned skills I use every day. The instructors make complex techniques seem simple and approachable. Can't wait for my next class!"
Lisa Wilson

Lisa Wilson

Teacher
"Professional, reliable, and incredibly talented. Cooking Leader catered our product launch event and received rave reviews from all attendees. The presentation was beautiful and the food was outstanding."
Kevin Brown

Kevin Brown

Event Coordinator

Get In Touch

Request Information

Contact Information

📍
Address:
425 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 1200
Chicago, IL 60611, USA
📞
✉️
🕒
Business Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday: Closed