Joelen

1311 have dabbled | 134 reviews

Not Active in the last 12 months

Top rated icon TOP RATED TEACHER
Medium square joelen tan of what s cookin  chicago
4.72 | 134 reviews

Joelen

1311 have dabbled | 134 reviews

Not Active in the last 12 months

Big square joelen tan of what s cookin  chicago
4.72 | 134 reviews

Not Active in the last 12 months

Top rated icon Top Rated

Joelen Kenny

Joelen Kenny of What's Cookin' Chicago? is an avid food enthusiast with years of experience as a culinary instructor, food blogger and former professional restaurant chef. Although she has a culinary background, she also works in the pharmaceutical industry involved with specialty medications for oncology, rheumatology, dermatology and gynocology therapies. Combining her upbringing as a child to retired caterers, science education, extensive experience in the culinary arts, and being a mom to first grader, Joelen has a unique perspective on food where she makes learning in the kitchen fun, easy, educational and approachable. Joelen loves focusing on cuisine and culture, often teaching classes that combine both with a hands on and interactive approach for her students. When not in the kitchen, pharmacy or teaching students, Joelen loves spending time with her husband Patrick and son Joel, hiking, gardening and being in the outdoors.

ABOUT THIS TEACHER

Joelen Kenny of What's Cookin' Chicago? is an avid food enthusiast with years of experience as a culinary instructor, food blogger and former professional restaurant chef. Although she has a culinary background, she also works in the pharmaceutical industry involved with specialty medications for oncology, rheumatology, dermatology and gynocology therapies. Combining her upbringing as a child to retired caterers, science education, extensive experience in the culinary arts, and being a mom to first grader, Joelen has a unique perspective on food where she makes learning in the kitchen fun, easy, educational and approachable. Joelen loves focusing on cuisine and culture, often teaching classes that combine both with a hands on and interactive approach for her students. When not in the kitchen, pharmacy or teaching students, Joelen loves spending time with her husband Patrick and son Joel, hiking, gardening and being in the outdoors.

STUDENT EXPERIENCES

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    Jackie K.
    Reviewed on 12/11/18

    Enjoyed this class. The size of the class was perfect (#8). Cookies were yummy and we got to paint a lovely picture and learn new painting techniques.

    Enjoyed this class. The size of the class was perfect (#8). Cookies were yummy and we got to paint a lovely picture and learn new painting techniques.

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    Erica S.
    Reviewed on 12/02/18

    I really enjoyed this class! It was small and intimate, which was great. The teacher had prepared well, and everything was laid out in advance. I am a TERRIBLE artist, and this class made the whole process easy and approachable. The boozy hot chocolate and cookies were icing on the cake. I would definitely do it again!

    I really enjoyed this class! It was small and intimate, which was great. The teacher had prepared well, and everything was laid out in advance. I am a TERRIBLE artist, and this class made the whole process easy and approachable. The boozy hot chocolate and cookies were icing on the cake. I would definitely do it again!

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    Sandi S.
    Reviewed on 03/30/18

    Nice group activity

    Nice group activity

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    Katherine N.
    Reviewed on 04/18/17

    Awesome class and teacher. Highly recommend.

    Awesome class and teacher. Highly recommend.

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    Danelle K.
    Reviewed on 01/29/17

    A fantastic and fun class. We learned how to make sushi, where to get local ingredients, and how to prep it all.

    A fantastic and fun class. We learned how to make sushi, where to get local ingredients, and how to prep it all.

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    Megan W.
    Reviewed on 01/15/17

    Such a great class! The dough was pre-made (which saved a lot of time) and we got to learn how to make the classic pretzel twist. Also a bit of history of pretzels and oktoberfest, which is always interesting. Had a lot of fun making the pretzels (turned out delicious) and tasting several oktoberfest beers. Great teacher, cute little kitchen location.

    Such a great class! The dough was pre-made (which saved a lot of time) and we got to learn how to make the classic pretzel twist. Also a bit of history of pretzels and oktoberfest, which is always interesting. Had a lot of fun making the pretzels (turned out delicious) and tasting several oktoberfest beers. Great teacher, cute little kitchen location.

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    Amanda Z.
    Reviewed on 12/05/16

    Such a great class! Came home with so many tamales!

    Such a great class! Came home with so many tamales!

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    Robin B.
    Reviewed on 12/04/16

    This was so much fun! We were wondering how she was going to cover so much material in a 2 hour time frame but she was so organized and had prepared the fillings ahead of time. We each had our own packet of ingredients and she explained how she made everything but we assembled them right there. She was great about walking around and handling individual questions and providing tips and how-to's! She also had remade many, many samples for us to eat while there. It was a great experience and my second class with this instructor. Highly recommend it!

    This was so much fun! We were wondering how she was going to cover so much material in a 2 hour time frame but she was so organized and had prepared the fillings ahead of time. We each had our own packet of ingredients and she explained how she made everything but we assembled them right there. She was great about walking around and handling individual questions and providing tips and how-to's! She also had remade many, many samples for us to eat while there. It was a great experience and my second class with this instructor. Highly recommend it!

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    Lesley G.
    Reviewed on 12/04/16

    The class was awesome! I learned a lot and I will definitely make tamales at home.

    The class was awesome! I learned a lot and I will definitely make tamales at home.

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    Sharon L.
    Reviewed on 10/10/16

    I took this class because I'm a sushi lover, my husband is a great cook, and I thought it would be a nice date night for us- which it definitely was. Joelen was so fun and extremely knowledgeable. She had everything on hand that we would need to make SO many rolls - fresh veggies, sauces and lots of choices of quality seafood. We had a very filling dinner, had tons of leftovers and had fun in the process. This isn't just a make some food and eat night either - it was very informative. Great time - definitely recommend.

    I took this class because I'm a sushi lover, my husband is a great cook, and I thought it would be a nice date night for us- which it definitely was. Joelen was so fun and extremely knowledgeable. She had everything on hand that we would need to make SO many rolls - fresh veggies, sauces and lots of choices of quality seafood. We had a very filling dinner, had tons of leftovers and had fun in the process. This isn't just a make some food and eat night either - it was very informative. Great time - definitely recommend.

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    Janeen P.
    Reviewed on 10/09/16

    Joellen is an excellent teacher. She quickly remembered everyone's name in the class too. We learned how to make pie dough and tips for rolling it out, etc. We made extra dough to use for the top or to take home for another pie. She taught us how to make a lattice pie crust too. The Door County cherries she prepared for the filling were delicious! The only issue was we ran out of filling, but she improvised with peaches. It was a fun class with a pie to take home and bake.

    Joellen is an excellent teacher. She quickly remembered everyone's name in the class too. We learned how to make pie dough and tips for rolling it out, etc. We made extra dough to use for the top or to take home for another pie. She taught us how to make a lattice pie crust too. The Door County cherries she prepared for the filling were delicious! The only issue was we ran out of filling, but she improvised with peaches. It was a fun class with a pie to take home and bake.

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    Mc Kinley M.
    Reviewed on 09/12/16

    I was planning an outing for my sister's bachelorette party, and we wanted to make sushi. Joelen's class was a perfect fit. She was very quick to respond to my questions ahead of time and to help me accommodate people in my party who were late to register. At the class, she was very fun and friendly, explained the history of sushi, and learned everyone's names in the first five minutes. I'm a teacher myself, and after three weeks, I don't remember my students names as well as Joelen did! I definitely recommend this class!

    I was planning an outing for my sister's bachelorette party, and we wanted to make sushi. Joelen's class was a perfect fit. She was very quick to respond to my questions ahead of time and to help me accommodate people in my party who were late to register. At the class, she was very fun and friendly, explained the history of sushi, and learned everyone's names in the first five minutes. I'm a teacher myself, and after three weeks, I don't remember my students names as well as Joelen did! I definitely recommend this class!

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    Anne G.
    Reviewed on 07/18/16

    Excellent class! The instructors were very well-prepared, and the food and drink was outstanding. My sister and I had a great time and look forward to our next dabble event.

    Location was very good, too!

    Excellent class! The instructors were very well-prepared, and the food and drink was outstanding. My sister and I had a great time and look forward to our next dabble event.

    Location was very good, too!

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    Rachel A.
    Reviewed on 07/18/16

    It was really fun to learn about the Low Country Boil and especially nice to eat it all!

    It was really fun to learn about the Low Country Boil and especially nice to eat it all!

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    Chet P.
    Reviewed on 07/18/16

    This class was a lot of fun! Our teacher was very friendly and knowledgeable. She shared a little history of sushi and explained the cultural importance of the dish to our group. My ladyfriend and I had a lot of fun and would definitely do this again.

    This class was a lot of fun! Our teacher was very friendly and knowledgeable. She shared a little history of sushi and explained the cultural importance of the dish to our group. My ladyfriend and I had a lot of fun and would definitely do this again.

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    Andrew S.
    Reviewed on 06/15/16

    Lots of fun. All the ingredients you needed!

    Lots of fun. All the ingredients you needed!

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    Mallory G.
    Reviewed on 06/13/16

    Very fun class! I learned a lot about Hawaiian food and culture, and made a tasty meal.

    Very fun class! I learned a lot about Hawaiian food and culture, and made a tasty meal.

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    Blaire K.
    Reviewed on 04/20/16

    This was a fantastic experience. I went with two of my girlfriends and we had a wonderful time. We learned so much!

    This was a fantastic experience. I went with two of my girlfriends and we had a wonderful time. We learned so much!

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    Susan H.
    Reviewed on 04/20/16

    I had so much fun - and learned something. Best Sunday brunch ever!

    I had so much fun - and learned something. Best Sunday brunch ever!

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    Justin O.
    Reviewed on 02/29/16

    Joelyn was a fantastic instructor! The price was fair, and we loved the hands on experience! We also loved that there were so many different options to fill your sushi roll with!

    Joelyn was a fantastic instructor! The price was fair, and we loved the hands on experience! We also loved that there were so many different options to fill your sushi roll with!

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    Meri V.
    Reviewed on 02/27/16

    Great! Fun and really interesting! It is worth it!

    Great! Fun and really interesting! It is worth it!

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    Joseph K.
    Reviewed on 01/19/16

    It was most enjoyable. Joelen was very pleasant and professional. The class had a friendly atmosphere and she answered all questions timely. I would take this class again.

    It was most enjoyable. Joelen was very pleasant and professional. The class had a friendly atmosphere and she answered all questions timely. I would take this class again.

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    Alex N.
    Reviewed on 01/18/16

    I took my girlfriend to this class as a belated Christmas present and Jolene did a great job! She was super friendly and even had an amazing ability to remember everyone's names despite having over 20 people in the class. There was a great amount of information on the history and methods of sushi making. What really surprised me was the amount of ingredients provided for us. Plenty of fresh fish and veggies, even some fun ingredients I wouldn't have thought of! I would highly recommend this class.

    I took my girlfriend to this class as a belated Christmas present and Jolene did a great job! She was super friendly and even had an amazing ability to remember everyone's names despite having over 20 people in the class. There was a great amount of information on the history and methods of sushi making. What really surprised me was the amount of ingredients provided for us. Plenty of fresh fish and veggies, even some fun ingredients I wouldn't have thought of! I would highly recommend this class.

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    Ilana B.
    Reviewed on 06/07/15

    Joelen was amazing! Our class was super nervous about their abilities but the dumplings turned out perfectly and everyone had so much fun!

    Joelen was amazing! Our class was super nervous about their abilities but the dumplings turned out perfectly and everyone had so much fun!

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    Jenni W.
    Reviewed on 04/28/15

    This is the second class i have taken with Joelen. Most recently, I did a private sushi class with Joelen for a friend's bachelorette. The whole experience- from setting the class up to learning how to make sushi was so easy. Joelen is a great teacher and she took the time to answer all of our many questions, not just about sushi but about cooking in general. I highly recommend taking one of her classes!

    This is the second class i have taken with Joelen. Most recently, I did a private sushi class with Joelen for a friend's bachelorette. The whole experience- from setting the class up to learning how to make sushi was so easy. Joelen is a great teacher and she took the time to answer all of our many questions, not just about sushi but about cooking in general. I highly recommend taking one of her classes!

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    Favian R.
    Reviewed on 04/12/15

    You are seriously missing out on a great experience if you pass up the Filipino Cultural class. The food is delicious and plentiful. Filipino culture is beautiful, communal and so welcoming. JT and her friends are amazing hosts. My wife and I had an awesome time!

    You are seriously missing out on a great experience if you pass up the Filipino Cultural class. The food is delicious and plentiful. Filipino culture is beautiful, communal and so welcoming. JT and her friends are amazing hosts. My wife and I had an awesome time!

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    Sonia C.
    Reviewed on 03/30/15

    Joelen was great, she came fully prepared and I think everyone in the class had fun. The food was great as well.

    Joelen was great, she came fully prepared and I think everyone in the class had fun. The food was great as well.

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    Patrick S.
    Reviewed on 03/26/15

    This was a fun class, definitely intended for the beginning doughnut maker. Bring friends and have fun.

    This was a fun class, definitely intended for the beginning doughnut maker. Bring friends and have fun.

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    Izzy C.
    Reviewed on 03/23/15

    This was an extremely fun class! The teacher was informative and kept things entertaining :)
    The doughnut recipe was not too hard as well, and could me duplicated at home!
    I highly enjoy this class and would recommend it to anyone else.

    This was an extremely fun class! The teacher was informative and kept things entertaining :)
    The doughnut recipe was not too hard as well, and could me duplicated at home!
    I highly enjoy this class and would recommend it to anyone else.

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    Ali H.
    Reviewed on 02/22/15

    Joelen was super knowledgable and attentive, and we are still enjoying the delicious donuts we made!

    Joelen was super knowledgable and attentive, and we are still enjoying the delicious donuts we made!

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    Neha S.
    Reviewed on 02/11/15

    Great class and great teacher! It is a really hands on class.

    Great class and great teacher! It is a really hands on class.

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    Teri S.
    Reviewed on 02/03/15

    I enjoyed everything. Joelen was organized, informed and friendly. I can't think of a single thing I would change. The "Living Room" had a great vibe.

    I enjoyed everything. Joelen was organized, informed and friendly. I can't think of a single thing I would change. The "Living Room" had a great vibe.

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    Suzanna W.
    Reviewed on 02/03/15

    This class was super fun and very informative. I suggest that you bring a lot of containers to fit all the beautiful sushi maki you make, that you aren't able to eat. It was a great experience and our teacher, Joelen Tan, was very professional and super cool. I would definitely recommend this class to anyone interested in learning how to roll sushi maki, or just have a fun and unique date with the one you love.

    This class was super fun and very informative. I suggest that you bring a lot of containers to fit all the beautiful sushi maki you make, that you aren't able to eat. It was a great experience and our teacher, Joelen Tan, was very professional and super cool. I would definitely recommend this class to anyone interested in learning how to roll sushi maki, or just have a fun and unique date with the one you love.

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    Francine R.
    Reviewed on 02/01/15

    What a fun class it was. The teacher was great, she took the time to explain the history of sushi, went over the equipment, ingredients and how-to with us. We had a full class and I am certain everyone felt the same way. Great job!

    What a fun class it was. The teacher was great, she took the time to explain the history of sushi, went over the equipment, ingredients and how-to with us. We had a full class and I am certain everyone felt the same way. Great job!

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    Allison K.
    Reviewed on 01/20/15

    Joelen is the best. Always upbeat, friendly and makes everyone comfortable in the class environment. the crepes were AMAZING and of course the mimosas were as well. We had both sweet and savory options to satisfy all our cravings. The crepe batter was already made because it has to rest overnight but we were able to actually make the crepes and learn how to make the batter.

    Joelen is the best. Always upbeat, friendly and makes everyone comfortable in the class environment. the crepes were AMAZING and of course the mimosas were as well. We had both sweet and savory options to satisfy all our cravings. The crepe batter was already made because it has to rest overnight but we were able to actually make the crepes and learn how to make the batter.

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    Gwen P.
    Reviewed on 01/12/15

    I love all classes by Joelen Tan! She gives clear easy instructions and makes cooking easy.

    I love all classes by Joelen Tan! She gives clear easy instructions and makes cooking easy.

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    Tonya H.
    Reviewed on 01/11/15

    I definitely enjoyed my first class with Joelen! She was very warm and welcoming and made everyone in the class feel comfortable and willing to try something new. I will most certainly be making crepes at home very soon. I look forward to signing up for my next class at the Living Room.

    I definitely enjoyed my first class with Joelen! She was very warm and welcoming and made everyone in the class feel comfortable and willing to try something new. I will most certainly be making crepes at home very soon. I look forward to signing up for my next class at the Living Room.

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    Allison K.
    Reviewed on 12/19/14

    Another great class with Joelen! Making tamales always seemed to be such a hard task but Joelen really broke it down and made the whole process easy to understand. Hands on cooking and very imformative. Delicious tamales with some to take home. I would highly recommend this class (or any of Joelen's classes)!

    Another great class with Joelen! Making tamales always seemed to be such a hard task but Joelen really broke it down and made the whole process easy to understand. Hands on cooking and very imformative. Delicious tamales with some to take home. I would highly recommend this class (or any of Joelen's classes)!

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    Peggy O.
    Reviewed on 12/09/14

    Joelen was wonderful and she was very informative and organized. Having only two hours she taught us the basics but because she had many of the items all ready prepared I know I will be able to make tamales on my own. We had good discussions and questions answered to help make us understand the process. I would definitely take another of her classes.

    Joelen was wonderful and she was very informative and organized. Having only two hours she taught us the basics but because she had many of the items all ready prepared I know I will be able to make tamales on my own. We had good discussions and questions answered to help make us understand the process. I would definitely take another of her classes.

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    Kay M.
    Reviewed on 12/09/14

    I brought three friends from the burbs to try our first Dabble class, and tamale making for the holidays was a great experience. It was a fun excursion early enough in December to not interfere with other commitments. Had a great time with our other table of classmates and got great feedback about other Dabble classes I want to try. Thanks, K

    I brought three friends from the burbs to try our first Dabble class, and tamale making for the holidays was a great experience. It was a fun excursion early enough in December to not interfere with other commitments. Had a great time with our other table of classmates and got great feedback about other Dabble classes I want to try. Thanks, K

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    Gwen P.
    Reviewed on 12/08/14

    Joelen Tan was great! The class was fun and informational. I will definitely try out at home what we learned in class. The timing of the class was perfect, and we got to bring home yummy tamales! I plan to take more classes offered by Joelen.

    Joelen Tan was great! The class was fun and informational. I will definitely try out at home what we learned in class. The timing of the class was perfect, and we got to bring home yummy tamales! I plan to take more classes offered by Joelen.

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    Justin M.
    Reviewed on 12/07/14

    We had a great time learning how to make sushi! Instructor was great and the ingredients were fresh and delicious. BYOB was nice also. Would definitely recommend.

    We had a great time learning how to make sushi! Instructor was great and the ingredients were fresh and delicious. BYOB was nice also. Would definitely recommend.

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    Francisca C.
    Reviewed on 11/14/14

    Had a great experience making sushi. We got plenty of food to eat and take home. Joelen was a great instructor with a positive energy. Overall, I had a great time and would definitely recommend this class!

    Had a great experience making sushi. We got plenty of food to eat and take home. Joelen was a great instructor with a positive energy. Overall, I had a great time and would definitely recommend this class!

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    Samantha R.
    Reviewed on 10/20/14

    This class was fun, hands on, and we got plenty to eat. I recommend it!

    This class was fun, hands on, and we got plenty to eat. I recommend it!

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    Kate R.
    Reviewed on 10/20/14

    Wonderful space, teacher's energy was contagious and positive, overall so much fun and educational!

    Wonderful space, teacher's energy was contagious and positive, overall so much fun and educational!

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    Rebecca L.
    Reviewed on 10/19/14

    I loved learning about stuffing donuts from Joelen. She was clearly knowledgeable and very fun to work with. We had lots of donuts to take home with us. My only complaint was that we wrapped up the 2-hour class in about 90 minutes. Would have loved to learn another donut or method of stuffing in the time we had left!

    I loved learning about stuffing donuts from Joelen. She was clearly knowledgeable and very fun to work with. We had lots of donuts to take home with us. My only complaint was that we wrapped up the 2-hour class in about 90 minutes. Would have loved to learn another donut or method of stuffing in the time we had left!

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    Kellye B.
    Reviewed on 09/11/14

    It was a fun class to do with my mom...Especially since we are not the baking type; we enjoyed learning something new.

    It was a fun class to do with my mom...Especially since we are not the baking type; we enjoyed learning something new.

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    Jennifer M.
    Reviewed on 09/10/14

    Some friends and I did the New Orleans Boozy Brunch class and we loved it! Joelen was very nice and knowledgeable; it was also a fun group and we made some great food. I would definitely take a class with her again.

    Some friends and I did the New Orleans Boozy Brunch class and we loved it! Joelen was very nice and knowledgeable; it was also a fun group and we made some great food. I would definitely take a class with her again.

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    Mark H.
    Reviewed on 09/07/14

    I decided to take the class based on the menu and the fact that I'm recently gluten free. Joelen did an excellent job of creating an atmosphere that was informative and social.

    I decided to take the class based on the menu and the fact that I'm recently gluten free. Joelen did an excellent job of creating an atmosphere that was informative and social.

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    Sierra S.
    Reviewed on 09/07/14

    Such a great class. The food was delicious and Joelen was wonderful. Very knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions you may have. Would definitely recommend this class!

    Such a great class. The food was delicious and Joelen was wonderful. Very knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions you may have. Would definitely recommend this class!

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    Katy U.
    Reviewed on 08/24/14

    Joelen was awesome! I loved how the location had a very homey atmosphere. And we made so much food. Potstickers + edamame + shrimp tempura + 2 whole rolls + a hand roll + sashimi + dessert. I was so full by the end! It was also great that it was BYOB :) I would definitely take another one of Joelen's classes again.

    Joelen was awesome! I loved how the location had a very homey atmosphere. And we made so much food. Potstickers + edamame + shrimp tempura + 2 whole rolls + a hand roll + sashimi + dessert. I was so full by the end! It was also great that it was BYOB :) I would definitely take another one of Joelen's classes again.

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    Gemand Jay C.
    Reviewed on 08/23/14

    What a great class! It was well-organized, easy to follow, fun & Joelen was a delight! I was visiting from out of town - I only wish that I could attend more of Joelen's classes!

    What a great class! It was well-organized, easy to follow, fun & Joelen was a delight! I was visiting from out of town - I only wish that I could attend more of Joelen's classes!

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    Allison K.
    Reviewed on 08/08/14

    I loved boozy brunch! Joelen is a great teacher who obviously loves cooking and sharing that love with others. We learned to make eggs benedict from scratch while sipping on some drinks. She made everything easy to understand and fun. My friends and I had a great time and I am definitely looking forward to taking another class with Joelen.

    I loved boozy brunch! Joelen is a great teacher who obviously loves cooking and sharing that love with others. We learned to make eggs benedict from scratch while sipping on some drinks. She made everything easy to understand and fun. My friends and I had a great time and I am definitely looking forward to taking another class with Joelen.

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    Christine R.
    Reviewed on 08/04/14

    This class was super fun and easy going. The food was delicious, and the recipes were all things that could be easily replicated on your own at home.

    This class was super fun and easy going. The food was delicious, and the recipes were all things that could be easily replicated on your own at home.

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    Dena C.
    Reviewed on 07/17/14

    The experience was new and awesome!

    The experience was new and awesome!

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    Tina F.
    Reviewed on 07/15/14

    The teacher was knowledgeable and kind. We ran out of time, but she sent us the directions for the remainder of the cake pop lesson and it was so easy that my 11 year old finished the recipe and they were delicious!

    The teacher was knowledgeable and kind. We ran out of time, but she sent us the directions for the remainder of the cake pop lesson and it was so easy that my 11 year old finished the recipe and they were delicious!

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    Michelle O.
    Reviewed on 07/08/14

    Joelen is really fun and knowledgeable about food! I had a great time and am interested in checking out some of her food tours!

    Joelen is really fun and knowledgeable about food! I had a great time and am interested in checking out some of her food tours!

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    Adam G.
    Reviewed on 07/07/14

    Great class that took me to an area of the city that I have not been to before. The teacher was knowledgeable and the food was great! I will definitely go back to Chinatown to explore more on my own.

    Great class that took me to an area of the city that I have not been to before. The teacher was knowledgeable and the food was great! I will definitely go back to Chinatown to explore more on my own.

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    Lucie S.
    Reviewed on 07/07/14

    The class was great. Presented well

    The class was great. Presented well

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    Cheryl V.
    Reviewed on 05/22/14

    This tour was great!! The food was great and the walk was not too tiresome. Joelen is an excellent guide and I will certainly be signing up for more of the events she hosts. Often in ethnic neighborhoods, you always end up going to the "old standby" that you're familiar with. Getting better acquainted with Pilsen was great. Now I will be more adventurous when planning to go to dinner, lunch or shopping there.

    This tour was great!! The food was great and the walk was not too tiresome. Joelen is an excellent guide and I will certainly be signing up for more of the events she hosts. Often in ethnic neighborhoods, you always end up going to the "old standby" that you're familiar with. Getting better acquainted with Pilsen was great. Now I will be more adventurous when planning to go to dinner, lunch or shopping there.

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    Amberly H.
    Reviewed on 04/08/14

    This class was great and lots of fun. Small class size, very basic and fundamental instructions that anyone could follow. Best part - tons of leftovers!

    This class was great and lots of fun. Small class size, very basic and fundamental instructions that anyone could follow. Best part - tons of leftovers!

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    Jeniffer B.
    Reviewed on 04/07/14

    I cannot rave enough about this class. This was a great beginner class to making sushi. Joelen is approachable, funny and informative. My husband and I had such a great time and walked away stuffed with a ton of extra sushi left to take home. We couldn't have asked for a better experience!

    I cannot rave enough about this class. This was a great beginner class to making sushi. Joelen is approachable, funny and informative. My husband and I had such a great time and walked away stuffed with a ton of extra sushi left to take home. We couldn't have asked for a better experience!

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    Bo S.
    Reviewed on 03/30/14

    A great way to visit some delicious spots in the underrated neighbourhood of Pilsen!

    A great way to visit some delicious spots in the underrated neighbourhood of Pilsen!

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    Kate W.
    Reviewed on 03/24/14

    it was a super fun class and i am really excited to host my next brunch! i had not idea how easy crepes and quiches could be! and this new crust recipe is delicious! danger danger!

    it was a super fun class and i am really excited to host my next brunch! i had not idea how easy crepes and quiches could be! and this new crust recipe is delicious! danger danger!

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    Linda M F.
    Reviewed on 02/24/14

    Excellent space for any cooking class. Joelen was a great host and teacher and provided us with coffee and teas to go along with our home made treats. I wish that there were more yeast type donuts, but understand that those do take more time than class allows. Interesting introduction to the craft. I am anxiously awaiting the recipe e-mail.

    Excellent space for any cooking class. Joelen was a great host and teacher and provided us with coffee and teas to go along with our home made treats. I wish that there were more yeast type donuts, but understand that those do take more time than class allows. Interesting introduction to the craft. I am anxiously awaiting the recipe e-mail.

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    Gen C.
    Reviewed on 02/24/14

    This is one of the best Dabble classes I've taken, hands down. Informative, delicious, fun, and practical. It was the perfect start to a Saturday.

    This is one of the best Dabble classes I've taken, hands down. Informative, delicious, fun, and practical. It was the perfect start to a Saturday.

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    Sara G.
    Reviewed on 02/23/14

    This was an awesome class. We learned how to make four different types of breakfast treats and the instructor did a great job of making sure it was hands on and easy to understand. I got to bring a ton of extras home and my friends all enjoyed taste testing them with me!

    This was an awesome class. We learned how to make four different types of breakfast treats and the instructor did a great job of making sure it was hands on and easy to understand. I got to bring a ton of extras home and my friends all enjoyed taste testing them with me!

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    Julie K.
    Reviewed on 02/23/14

    This class is both fun and delicious. Joelen is very friendly and warm, you feel like you've gone over to to your friend-the-chef's kitchen rather than an instructional class. We learned how to make 5 different types of doughnuts plus all the toppings. I feel totally confident that I could whip up a batch now!

    This class is both fun and delicious. Joelen is very friendly and warm, you feel like you've gone over to to your friend-the-chef's kitchen rather than an instructional class. We learned how to make 5 different types of doughnuts plus all the toppings. I feel totally confident that I could whip up a batch now!

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    Taryn O.
    Reviewed on 02/17/14

    Great class and great teacher! My friends and I had a really fun experience and would highly suggest taking a class with her.

    Great class and great teacher! My friends and I had a really fun experience and would highly suggest taking a class with her.

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    Michael C.
    Reviewed on 02/15/14

    When would you make five types of donuts with 5 types of frosting, billions of sprinkle options all in one sitting? Meet new people and do it in a new place? Have someone who's in the know, right there next to you, to ask questions? More reasons to give this a go than you have time to find reasons not to.

    This was my first dabble: a great class and a great experience. Perhaps the bar has been set high, but I can't wait to sign up for another class.

    When would you make five types of donuts with 5 types of frosting, billions of sprinkle options all in one sitting? Meet new people and do it in a new place? Have someone who's in the know, right there next to you, to ask questions? More reasons to give this a go than you have time to find reasons not to.

    This was my first dabble: a great class and a great experience. Perhaps the bar has been set high, but I can't wait to sign up for another class.

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    Ashley B.
    Reviewed on 02/13/14

    Great experience! Fun class, great people, nice teacher, awesome sushi!

    Great experience! Fun class, great people, nice teacher, awesome sushi!

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    Malia C.
    Reviewed on 02/13/14

    Loved the vibe of the class. Joelen was friendly and went over all the basics with us. Would definitely take another class!

    Loved the vibe of the class. Joelen was friendly and went over all the basics with us. Would definitely take another class!

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    Tameka A.
    Reviewed on 02/10/14

    Great class. This teacher is amazing and the donuts were so good. The perfect comfort food for a snowy Saturday afternoon!

    Great class. This teacher is amazing and the donuts were so good. The perfect comfort food for a snowy Saturday afternoon!

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    Kelly F.
    Reviewed on 02/10/14

    Great class - the Enerspace location had a fantastic kitchen area that made it easy for everyone to work together and see what was going on with everyone else. That being said, it was quite necessary to see everyone else was doing b/c you're really only making one of the donut style while other class members are making the other donuts, so you really have to be diligent about what's happening with the other recipes if you want to "learn" those ones (as opposed to just seeing the recipe written out later). My partner and I worked on the apple fritters and they were the *best* ones by far (the others were great too, though!). I'd definitely recommend this class - everyone was impressed at my volleyball group where I shared the donuts!

    Great class - the Enerspace location had a fantastic kitchen area that made it easy for everyone to work together and see what was going on with everyone else. That being said, it was quite necessary to see everyone else was doing b/c you're really only making one of the donut style while other class members are making the other donuts, so you really have to be diligent about what's happening with the other recipes if you want to "learn" those ones (as opposed to just seeing the recipe written out later). My partner and I worked on the apple fritters and they were the *best* ones by far (the others were great too, though!). I'd definitely recommend this class - everyone was impressed at my volleyball group where I shared the donuts!

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    Rob C.
    Reviewed on 02/10/14

    Great class, highly recommended!

    Great class, highly recommended!

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    Amy L.
    Reviewed on 02/09/14

    This was our first dabble class. We had a great time. Who knew sushi was so easy to make yourself?!

    This was our first dabble class. We had a great time. Who knew sushi was so easy to make yourself?!

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    Laura V.
    Reviewed on 12/16/13

    This was a fun night out! Met a whole group of cool new people and learned about tamales too : )

    This was a fun night out! Met a whole group of cool new people and learned about tamales too : )

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    Mercedes A.
    Reviewed on 12/15/13

    It was much easier than I thought! The class was small which was great. I wish the class was a little longer. I would take some more classes in the future.

    It was much easier than I thought! The class was small which was great. I wish the class was a little longer. I would take some more classes in the future.

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    Jan P.
    Reviewed on 12/15/13

    I love tamales! Thanks to Jolene I now know how to make them for my family. It was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon learning, making and then having a feast of all things tamale.. An abundance of fillings, and tricks on preparation rounded out the experience...and lots of nice, nice people in the class.

    I love tamales! Thanks to Jolene I now know how to make them for my family. It was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon learning, making and then having a feast of all things tamale.. An abundance of fillings, and tricks on preparation rounded out the experience...and lots of nice, nice people in the class.

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    Aubrey B.
    Reviewed on 12/10/13

    I thought this was a great class that demystified tamale making. I definitely think I can do this at home for the holidays (or any days!). Joelen made the process seem very manageable and I loved that we got to take the extras home. I would definitely take a class from her again. Thank you!

    I thought this was a great class that demystified tamale making. I definitely think I can do this at home for the holidays (or any days!). Joelen made the process seem very manageable and I loved that we got to take the extras home. I would definitely take a class from her again. Thank you!

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    Melissa M.
    Reviewed on 12/08/13

    This was a fun and well-instructed class! Joelen does a great job of taking something that seems complicated (such as tamale-making) and making it simple. I especially appreciate that Joelen included a vegan-friendly recipe to accommodate my diet. I can't wait to make some delicious tamales at home.

    This was a fun and well-instructed class! Joelen does a great job of taking something that seems complicated (such as tamale-making) and making it simple. I especially appreciate that Joelen included a vegan-friendly recipe to accommodate my diet. I can't wait to make some delicious tamales at home.

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    Jan P.
    Reviewed on 11/08/13

    Hands on experience of making of our own buttery pie crust, was the base for our making the best pie filling ever! Jolene is a great instructor who guided us through the pie dough experience with ease. This holiday season will be tastier because of this class. Thank you!

    Hands on experience of making of our own buttery pie crust, was the base for our making the best pie filling ever! Jolene is a great instructor who guided us through the pie dough experience with ease. This holiday season will be tastier because of this class. Thank you!

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    Mark M.
    Reviewed on 11/04/13

    This was the first time my wife and I took a cooking class together. I thought it would have been a great anniversary gift and it most certainly was! The location was easy to find and get to with easy parking. The venue was fantastic. Having a small class really helps when learning new cooking tricks. The atmosphere was very informal and fun. And of course, the food was great.

    Joelen was a great teacher. She provided step by step instructions for the entire class, answered questions with depth and insight, and did a great job of making us all feel comfortable and happy. She has fun with her classes and inspires me to want to become a better cook. I can't thank her enough for a wonderful time we had and we look forward to seeing her again in another of her classes!

    This was the first time my wife and I took a cooking class together. I thought it would have been a great anniversary gift and it most certainly was! The location was easy to find and get to with easy parking. The venue was fantastic. Having a small class really helps when learning new cooking tricks. The atmosphere was very informal and fun. And of course, the food was great.

    Joelen was a great teacher. She provided step by step instructions for the entire class, answered questions with depth and insight, and did a great job of making us all feel comfortable and happy. She has fun with her classes and inspires me to want to become a better cook. I can't thank her enough for a wonderful time we had and we look forward to seeing her again in another of her classes!

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    Barbara T.
    Reviewed on 10/30/13

    This was a fun class and one that I really enjoyed. We went to two restaurants, tried different foods - from vietnamese sandwiches to interesting soups to wonderful desserts - and we were introduced to the various grocery stores in the area. I thought the tour was very thorough and the teacher was knowledgable.

    This was a fun class and one that I really enjoyed. We went to two restaurants, tried different foods - from vietnamese sandwiches to interesting soups to wonderful desserts - and we were introduced to the various grocery stores in the area. I thought the tour was very thorough and the teacher was knowledgable.

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    Kuniko N.
    Reviewed on 10/27/13

    It really was easy as pie, despite my not being a baker. I had a lot of fun with the hands-on practice and feel that I can tweak pie making to my own liking now. I would really recommend this class.

    It really was easy as pie, despite my not being a baker. I had a lot of fun with the hands-on practice and feel that I can tweak pie making to my own liking now. I would really recommend this class.

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    Chanel T.
    Reviewed on 10/21/13

    This is a fantastic class! Joelen is a great teacher and excellent host. This class is great for beginners and fun for a group to enjoy.

    This is a fantastic class! Joelen is a great teacher and excellent host. This class is great for beginners and fun for a group to enjoy.

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    Meha D.
    Reviewed on 10/15/13

    This was my second class with Joelen -- I also took the Spanish Tapas class with her-- and these have been two of my favorite Dabble classes so far! The space is great, and Joelen has a wonderful teaching style. I am vegetarian, but Joelen always adapts her classes to those with dietary restrictions so that everyone is able to learn and participate. The groups are small enough where we're able to have good conversation while each getting hands-on experience with the food. Some of the recipes she's taught initially sounded very complicated to me, and I am not at all an expert in the kitchen, but Joelen makes cooking approachable, easy, and fun! I love her drink pairings to match the cuisine as well. Overall both awesome classes, and I'd highly recommend any class with Joelen!

    This was my second class with Joelen -- I also took the Spanish Tapas class with her-- and these have been two of my favorite Dabble classes so far! The space is great, and Joelen has a wonderful teaching style. I am vegetarian, but Joelen always adapts her classes to those with dietary restrictions so that everyone is able to learn and participate. The groups are small enough where we're able to have good conversation while each getting hands-on experience with the food. Some of the recipes she's taught initially sounded very complicated to me, and I am not at all an expert in the kitchen, but Joelen makes cooking approachable, easy, and fun! I love her drink pairings to match the cuisine as well. Overall both awesome classes, and I'd highly recommend any class with Joelen!

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    Maria V.
    Reviewed on 10/11/13

    Place is a bit hard to find and in the middle of practically no where. It felt more like an office space with a kitchen than a cooking event space. It would have been more helpful to hold the class in a space where the stove top is in the center of the counter space so we could more easily see cooking methods/techniques. That said, the class was well attended and the instructor very prepared. We made a ton of items and there was plenty of food to go around and leftovers if some students wanted to take something home. A few fellow students brought wine and that was a very good idea so we ha something to pair with the food when the Sangria ran out.

    Place is a bit hard to find and in the middle of practically no where. It felt more like an office space with a kitchen than a cooking event space. It would have been more helpful to hold the class in a space where the stove top is in the center of the counter space so we could more easily see cooking methods/techniques. That said, the class was well attended and the instructor very prepared. We made a ton of items and there was plenty of food to go around and leftovers if some students wanted to take something home. A few fellow students brought wine and that was a very good idea so we ha something to pair with the food when the Sangria ran out.

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    Monica M.
    Reviewed on 10/07/13

    Joelen is a wonderful teacher, the kitchen was bright and so much room for us all.
    She gave us helpful tips to make these finicky little delicious macaroons.

    Joelen is a wonderful teacher, the kitchen was bright and so much room for us all.
    She gave us helpful tips to make these finicky little delicious macaroons.

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    Urban Threads S.
    Reviewed on 10/03/13

    I attended the macaron class with Joelen a few weeks ago, and it was a fabulous experience at a fantastic venue. Not only do you walk out with a box of delicious macarons at the end of the class but you also learn a few tricks of the trade to make these very temperamental delights at home.

    I attended the macaron class with Joelen a few weeks ago, and it was a fabulous experience at a fantastic venue. Not only do you walk out with a box of delicious macarons at the end of the class but you also learn a few tricks of the trade to make these very temperamental delights at home.

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    Jen V.
    Reviewed on 10/01/13

    Class was excellent- Joelyn was a great instructor, and the class was super fun. Very informative, conversational and entertaining!

    Class was excellent- Joelyn was a great instructor, and the class was super fun. Very informative, conversational and entertaining!

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    Regan B.
    Reviewed on 10/01/13

    Had a great time! The macaroons were amazing and delicious. They are known for being difficult to make but Joelen made it as easy as possible for all. Really fun way to spend a Saturday!

    Had a great time! The macaroons were amazing and delicious. They are known for being difficult to make but Joelen made it as easy as possible for all. Really fun way to spend a Saturday!

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    Dawn M.
    Reviewed on 09/29/13

    This class was so much fun and I left feeling like I really learned the foundations of how to make a classic pie. Class size was small and the pace was easy so we all had a relaxing time pie-making and chatting. Bonus that we got to eat delicious pie for days afterward! I would absolutely recommend this class to anyone interested in learning to bake pies.

    This class was so much fun and I left feeling like I really learned the foundations of how to make a classic pie. Class size was small and the pace was easy so we all had a relaxing time pie-making and chatting. Bonus that we got to eat delicious pie for days afterward! I would absolutely recommend this class to anyone interested in learning to bake pies.

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    Natalie K.
    Reviewed on 09/27/13

    I enjoyed preparing the pie, but I don't think I could replicate it after taking this class. I prefer more step by step instruction, with clear directions (e.g. how to peel the fruit, how to roll the pie into the dish, etc.). There were several times I found myself missing directions because I was trying to work on another prep step. And a lot of directions were given as 'Go like this' (rather than 'hold this here, then move clockwise'). It was a positive experience because I know more than I did before the class. But, bottom line, if you prefer prescriptive instructions, this class might not be for you.

    I enjoyed preparing the pie, but I don't think I could replicate it after taking this class. I prefer more step by step instruction, with clear directions (e.g. how to peel the fruit, how to roll the pie into the dish, etc.). There were several times I found myself missing directions because I was trying to work on another prep step. And a lot of directions were given as 'Go like this' (rather than 'hold this here, then move clockwise'). It was a positive experience because I know more than I did before the class. But, bottom line, if you prefer prescriptive instructions, this class might not be for you.

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    John S.
    Reviewed on 09/22/13

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    Dena M.
    Reviewed on 09/19/13

    This class was fun and comfortable and Joelen is great! Looking forward to taking more of her classes!

    This class was fun and comfortable and Joelen is great! Looking forward to taking more of her classes!

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    Nathalie S.
    Reviewed on 09/16/13

    I had been looking for a wine class and came across this New Orleans (N'awlin's) inspired cooking class which fit into my schedule - so I went with it! It was awesome - delicious food and good people to share it with!

    I had been looking for a wine class and came across this New Orleans (N'awlin's) inspired cooking class which fit into my schedule - so I went with it! It was awesome - delicious food and good people to share it with!

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    Veronica G.
    Reviewed on 09/16/13

    I want to live in the space Joelen uses for her classes...that is how much I loved this class. A very hands on class, and such a welcoming and attentive instructor. Her passion for gastronome and the culinary world is evident the minute you meet her. Just a clean working space and very organized set up. It’s such a communal environment, that you’ll end up making new friends before the night is over. Joelen looking forward to taking another class. I will be on the lookout if you decide for another tamale making class.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you so much Veronica! And you're in luck... I've added 2 Tamales classes as as result of the suggestions I received. I'll send you links to them so you can reserve your spot! I look forward to having you in the kitchen again soon...

    I want to live in the space Joelen uses for her classes...that is how much I loved this class. A very hands on class, and such a welcoming and attentive instructor. Her passion for gastronome and the culinary world is evident the minute you meet her. Just a clean working space and very organized set up. It’s such a communal environment, that you’ll end up making new friends before the night is over. Joelen looking forward to taking another class. I will be on the lookout if you decide for another tamale making class.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you so much Veronica! And you're in luck... I've added 2 Tamales classes as as result of the suggestions I received. I'll send you links to them so you can reserve your spot! I look forward to having you in the kitchen again soon...

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    Linda C.
    Reviewed on 09/15/13

    Joelen is amazing. Great food and atmosphere. Interactive class so you really learn how to make a dish. Highly recommend classes by this instructor.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for attending and it was a pleasure having you!

    Joelen is amazing. Great food and atmosphere. Interactive class so you really learn how to make a dish. Highly recommend classes by this instructor.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for attending and it was a pleasure having you!

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    Lynn Y.
    Reviewed on 09/15/13

    Class was fantastic! Joelen created an environment that was relaxed, hands-on, and really well-attended. I like it when an instructor develops a following and people from previous classes come to other events - it's a testament to their consistency. We made excellent food, ate it, and took extras home. The menu was well thought out. Items were easy to prepare, but looked fancy and will impress your friends. Highly recommend!!!

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for attending and your kind words! I look forward to seeing you again soon... maybe I'll include some Firewater cocktails next time. :)

    Class was fantastic! Joelen created an environment that was relaxed, hands-on, and really well-attended. I like it when an instructor develops a following and people from previous classes come to other events - it's a testament to their consistency. We made excellent food, ate it, and took extras home. The menu was well thought out. Items were easy to prepare, but looked fancy and will impress your friends. Highly recommend!!!

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for attending and your kind words! I look forward to seeing you again soon... maybe I'll include some Firewater cocktails next time. :)

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    Jenny S.
    Reviewed on 09/12/13

    Joelen is absolutely adorable! I will definitely be taking more classes with her! The class was very informative and what I loved most is that it is definitely possibly to make good, handmade pasta without a machine. I actually own a pasta making machine and have a lot more trouble than you would imagine trying to run it! The location was a little hard to find, but the facility was really nice and the group size was perfect! We learned three different pasta styles and were then encouraged to be creative and try out more. There were sauces prepared, ready to dress our dishes and Joelen even had extra food to make sure we were all well fed! Needless to say, I had trouble walking home with all that food in my belly! And there were still leftovers to take home! I would highly recommend this class, for the extreme novice and the experienced cook.

    Joelen is absolutely adorable! I will definitely be taking more classes with her! The class was very informative and what I loved most is that it is definitely possibly to make good, handmade pasta without a machine. I actually own a pasta making machine and have a lot more trouble than you would imagine trying to run it! The location was a little hard to find, but the facility was really nice and the group size was perfect! We learned three different pasta styles and were then encouraged to be creative and try out more. There were sauces prepared, ready to dress our dishes and Joelen even had extra food to make sure we were all well fed! Needless to say, I had trouble walking home with all that food in my belly! And there were still leftovers to take home! I would highly recommend this class, for the extreme novice and the experienced cook.

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    Benjamin D.
    Reviewed on 09/10/13

    Loved the class, great food and a great teacher!

    Loved the class, great food and a great teacher!

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    Brynne M.
    Reviewed on 09/09/13

    Fantastic instructor, great group of new people, and delicious food all around, not even just the pasta we made. Great laughs and learning all around.

    Fantastic instructor, great group of new people, and delicious food all around, not even just the pasta we made. Great laughs and learning all around.

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    Robert H.
    Reviewed on 09/09/13

    Really engaging class and great atmosphere. Instructor was extremely polite and knowledgeable. Definitely would go again.!

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Robert! It was a pleasure having you in the class and I hope you attend a future class with me soon... besides, I do have your rolling pin and would love to return it to you!!

    Really engaging class and great atmosphere. Instructor was extremely polite and knowledgeable. Definitely would go again.!

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Robert! It was a pleasure having you in the class and I hope you attend a future class with me soon... besides, I do have your rolling pin and would love to return it to you!!

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    Jackie K.
    Reviewed on 09/08/13

    As always I enjoy all of Joelen's classes. She is fun, helpful and a great instructor. Her classes are all hands on which makes it more fun to partake in.

    As always I enjoy all of Joelen's classes. She is fun, helpful and a great instructor. Her classes are all hands on which makes it more fun to partake in.

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    Diane M.
    Reviewed on 09/08/13

    Great class. Joelen makes everything so easy to understand, and takes complicated things and breaks them down so they seem do-able.

    Great class. Joelen makes everything so easy to understand, and takes complicated things and breaks them down so they seem do-able.

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    Lindsey H.
    Reviewed on 09/07/13

    Great class! The instructor was very knowledgeable. I especially appreciated the way she was able to refer us to other sources of information that we could access once the class was over.

    Great class! The instructor was very knowledgeable. I especially appreciated the way she was able to refer us to other sources of information that we could access once the class was over.

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    Anika S.
    Reviewed on 08/19/13

    had a great time! food was amazing and I really learned a lot from Joelen!

    had a great time! food was amazing and I really learned a lot from Joelen!

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    Chanel T.
    Reviewed on 08/19/13

    SUCH a fun class. The atmosphere is light and easy. The outcome was delicious. Joelen is a great teacher. I'm looking forward to my next class with her.

    SUCH a fun class. The atmosphere is light and easy. The outcome was delicious. Joelen is a great teacher. I'm looking forward to my next class with her.

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    Ann M.
    Reviewed on 08/19/13

    What a wonderful class! Joelen's knowledge of world cusine and her teaching style are just marvelous. She handles questions well and explains things in a way that people can understand. I am looking forward to my next class with Joelen!

    What a wonderful class! Joelen's knowledge of world cusine and her teaching style are just marvelous. She handles questions well and explains things in a way that people can understand. I am looking forward to my next class with Joelen!

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    Mark D.
    Reviewed on 08/19/13

    This was a fantastic class. Joelen is an outstanding instructor. She made us all feel at home, demystified the process of making French Macaron, and gave us very affirming feedback was we went through the hands-on learning process. The class size was perfect. I would highly recommend any of her classes.

    This was a fantastic class. Joelen is an outstanding instructor. She made us all feel at home, demystified the process of making French Macaron, and gave us very affirming feedback was we went through the hands-on learning process. The class size was perfect. I would highly recommend any of her classes.

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    Megan L.
    Reviewed on 08/18/13

    I loved the Filipino Fiesta cooking party! The food we prepared was fantastic, and Joelen is a great instructor. She does a really nice job of not just telling you how to make the dishes, but also explaining why to do things certain ways. She also shared a lot about her family's Filipino background and how the food we were making fit in to Filipino culture. It was really fun to actually sit down and have the dinner prepared as well. I would certainly recommend this class to others and would take additional classes with Joelen.

    I loved the Filipino Fiesta cooking party! The food we prepared was fantastic, and Joelen is a great instructor. She does a really nice job of not just telling you how to make the dishes, but also explaining why to do things certain ways. She also shared a lot about her family's Filipino background and how the food we were making fit in to Filipino culture. It was really fun to actually sit down and have the dinner prepared as well. I would certainly recommend this class to others and would take additional classes with Joelen.

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    Polly H.
    Reviewed on 08/16/13

    I loved that the class was small so it could be a little more one on one. Unfortunately the humidity in the kitchen wouldn't allow the macarons to rise, but they still tasted great!

    I loved that the class was small so it could be a little more one on one. Unfortunately the humidity in the kitchen wouldn't allow the macarons to rise, but they still tasted great!

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    Gail K.
    Reviewed on 08/13/13

    The French Macaroon class was a lot of fun. The weather conditions didn't allow for the prettiest macaroons, but they sure were tasty. Joelen did a very good job at explaining the technique and making the DIY part of the class easy.

    The French Macaroon class was a lot of fun. The weather conditions didn't allow for the prettiest macaroons, but they sure were tasty. Joelen did a very good job at explaining the technique and making the DIY part of the class easy.

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    Wanda V.
    Reviewed on 08/05/13

    I've always wanted to learn how to make sushi the proper way and this class definitely covered it.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Wanda! Glad to have met you & hope your future sushi endeavors will be more fun & delicious!

    I've always wanted to learn how to make sushi the proper way and this class definitely covered it.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Wanda! Glad to have met you & hope your future sushi endeavors will be more fun & delicious!

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    Nancy T.
    Reviewed on 08/05/13

    Great space, great teacher and a nice setup for teaching cooking. Can't wait to try another cooking class.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Nancy! It was wonderful meeting with you & I hope to have you in our kitchen again soon!

    Great space, great teacher and a nice setup for teaching cooking. Can't wait to try another cooking class.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Nancy! It was wonderful meeting with you & I hope to have you in our kitchen again soon!

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    Rachel G.
    Reviewed on 08/04/13

    Joelen did a great job at making sushi approachable. It doesn't always have to be something reserved for special occasions but can be perfect for those nights when you are hungry and want to get dinner on the table in under 20 minutes. If you're new to cooking but the idea of a class seems a bit scary, take a class with Joelen. She will have you relaxed and having fun in minutes.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Rachel! It was great to have you in our kitchen & hope you can join us again in the future!

    Joelen did a great job at making sushi approachable. It doesn't always have to be something reserved for special occasions but can be perfect for those nights when you are hungry and want to get dinner on the table in under 20 minutes. If you're new to cooking but the idea of a class seems a bit scary, take a class with Joelen. She will have you relaxed and having fun in minutes.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Rachel! It was great to have you in our kitchen & hope you can join us again in the future!

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    Becky C.
    Reviewed on 08/02/13

    We had a great time on the Tour of Pilsen. I loved checking out all the places I would never have gone to on my own. I was so great getting to experience a new area of Chicago. We got to try so many yummy treats. Joelen was a great teacher and guide. I hope there are more of these in the future.

    From Teacher:

    It was great to share the Pilsen neighborhood with you Becky! Stay tuned... I'll be opening up more culinary neighborhood tours on upcoming Sundays!

    We had a great time on the Tour of Pilsen. I loved checking out all the places I would never have gone to on my own. I was so great getting to experience a new area of Chicago. We got to try so many yummy treats. Joelen was a great teacher and guide. I hope there are more of these in the future.

    From Teacher:

    It was great to share the Pilsen neighborhood with you Becky! Stay tuned... I'll be opening up more culinary neighborhood tours on upcoming Sundays!

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    Ashley R.
    Reviewed on 07/14/13

    Delicious and fun Cuban cooking class with a big menu! Lovely kitchen workspace too! Like others I'm sure, enjoyed having a mojito while cooking.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Ashley! It was wonderful to have you in the kitchen and look forward to you joining us again soon!

    Delicious and fun Cuban cooking class with a big menu! Lovely kitchen workspace too! Like others I'm sure, enjoyed having a mojito while cooking.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Ashley! It was wonderful to have you in the kitchen and look forward to you joining us again soon!

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    Kristen K.
    Reviewed on 05/29/13

    So much fun- exceeded my expectations! Had a blast making tamales in a gorgeous kitchen space.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Kristen! I'm glad you left inspired & look forward to having you in our kitchen again soon!

    So much fun- exceeded my expectations! Had a blast making tamales in a gorgeous kitchen space.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Kristen! I'm glad you left inspired & look forward to having you in our kitchen again soon!

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    Katie B.
    Reviewed on 05/28/13

    Good instruction from Joelen and got some great recipes! Would definitely take another one of her classes.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Katie - loved having you in class! :)

    Good instruction from Joelen and got some great recipes! Would definitely take another one of her classes.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Katie - loved having you in class! :)

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    Tim H.
    Reviewed on 05/13/13

    Joelen was a fun, easy-going teacher who helped us learn the basics and have a great time. Definitely recommend her class(es)!

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Tim - loved having you in class! :)

    Joelen was a fun, easy-going teacher who helped us learn the basics and have a great time. Definitely recommend her class(es)!

    From Teacher:

    Thank you Tim - loved having you in class! :)

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    Megan H.
    Reviewed on 04/14/13

    This was a great event. I'd never been to Chinatown and never had Dim Sum, so it was a great first experience for both.

    This was a great event. I'd never been to Chinatown and never had Dim Sum, so it was a great first experience for both.

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    Alana K.
    Reviewed on 05/15/16

    The class is advertised as a cooking class. It is NOT a cooking class. It's a "mix a few liqueurs and watch someone else make food" class. If I wanted to be served Mexican cuisine, I would've spent the $35 at a local restaurant. I was expecting this to be more hands on, as advertised. Very very disappointed, and may never take another dabble because of this experience. Completely overpriced for what it was.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you so much for your feedback Alana. It was a pleasure having you attend and I'm sorry that your experience was not as positive as you would have liked. We appreciate your feedback and will certainly apply it to improve our classes in the future. Our 'Margarita Mexican Party' was intended to focus on margaritas and cocktail mixing where students were hands-on in making their drinks using shakers they were asked to bring, along with extra shakers provided. Appetizers and a dessert bar were offered to accompany the drinks to round out the experience. Going forward, we will definitely better clarify the description of our classes to set the expectations between cocktail mixing and cooking/baking classes. We thank you again for your feedback!

    The class is advertised as a cooking class. It is NOT a cooking class. It's a "mix a few liqueurs and watch someone else make food" class. If I wanted to be served Mexican cuisine, I would've spent the $35 at a local restaurant. I was expecting this to be more hands on, as advertised. Very very disappointed, and may never take another dabble because of this experience. Completely overpriced for what it was.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you so much for your feedback Alana. It was a pleasure having you attend and I'm sorry that your experience was not as positive as you would have liked. We appreciate your feedback and will certainly apply it to improve our classes in the future. Our 'Margarita Mexican Party' was intended to focus on margaritas and cocktail mixing where students were hands-on in making their drinks using shakers they were asked to bring, along with extra shakers provided. Appetizers and a dessert bar were offered to accompany the drinks to round out the experience. Going forward, we will definitely better clarify the description of our classes to set the expectations between cocktail mixing and cooking/baking classes. We thank you again for your feedback!

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    Kailee B.
    Reviewed on 05/15/16

    This was my first experience with Dabble, and I unfortunately have to say I was quite disappointed. By no means was it worth the price I paid (35). To start the space set up was not conducive to sharing or meeting new people, it was one long table where everyone had to wait to use everything. Throughout the whole experience myself and the people around me had to keep asking for more of the materials whether it was cups, liquor, chips, etc. One instructor had to keep running out to buy more supplies in the middle of the event and the food served was cold. Churros felt like they were still defrosting. Overall the event was very unorganized and overpriced.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you so much for your feedback Kailee. It was a pleasure having you attend and I'm sorry that your experience was not as positive as you would have liked. We appreciate your feedback and will certainly apply it to improve our classes in the future. I do want to make note that we did our best to provide high quality ingredients as noted with our homemade tortillas for the quesadillas (an extra menu item offered in addition to what the class menu promised), quality liquors (1800 & Jose Cuervo tequilas for the classic & 2 fruit margaritas provided), 5 types of fresh salsas, tableside custom guacamole with local tortilla chips and fresh churros from Chicago's very own Don Churro Bakery (1626 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608). We hope you consider exploring future classes via Dabble and thank you again for your feedback!

    This was my first experience with Dabble, and I unfortunately have to say I was quite disappointed. By no means was it worth the price I paid (35). To start the space set up was not conducive to sharing or meeting new people, it was one long table where everyone had to wait to use everything. Throughout the whole experience myself and the people around me had to keep asking for more of the materials whether it was cups, liquor, chips, etc. One instructor had to keep running out to buy more supplies in the middle of the event and the food served was cold. Churros felt like they were still defrosting. Overall the event was very unorganized and overpriced.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you so much for your feedback Kailee. It was a pleasure having you attend and I'm sorry that your experience was not as positive as you would have liked. We appreciate your feedback and will certainly apply it to improve our classes in the future. I do want to make note that we did our best to provide high quality ingredients as noted with our homemade tortillas for the quesadillas (an extra menu item offered in addition to what the class menu promised), quality liquors (1800 & Jose Cuervo tequilas for the classic & 2 fruit margaritas provided), 5 types of fresh salsas, tableside custom guacamole with local tortilla chips and fresh churros from Chicago's very own Don Churro Bakery (1626 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608). We hope you consider exploring future classes via Dabble and thank you again for your feedback!

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    Laura G.
    Reviewed on 10/28/13

    Delicious food for someone never having tried this cuisine.

    Delicious food for someone never having tried this cuisine.

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    Kristen K.
    Reviewed on 10/20/13

    Originally I was extremely excited to take this class, as it combined two of my interests: Dim Sum, and COOKING. I did no such cooking in this class. We did not do any real food prep either, other than filling pre-made dough packets with pre-prepped meat. The thing I'm disappointed with most is that this class was called a COOKING party, but there was no cooking, or any real involvement beyond what I call a helpful hand in a cooking demonstration. The menu was slightly disappointing as well, as it veered from Dim Sum, which is fine if you've called the class something other than "Dim Sum". I came to the class hoping to learn to cook what I love to eat, not to eat mediocre versions of what I can pay a lot less for and taste better.

    I have no ill-thoughts about the teacher, I was just led to believe I was paying to DO something (other than stuff wrappers and eat).

    Originally I was extremely excited to take this class, as it combined two of my interests: Dim Sum, and COOKING. I did no such cooking in this class. We did not do any real food prep either, other than filling pre-made dough packets with pre-prepped meat. The thing I'm disappointed with most is that this class was called a COOKING party, but there was no cooking, or any real involvement beyond what I call a helpful hand in a cooking demonstration. The menu was slightly disappointing as well, as it veered from Dim Sum, which is fine if you've called the class something other than "Dim Sum". I came to the class hoping to learn to cook what I love to eat, not to eat mediocre versions of what I can pay a lot less for and taste better.

    I have no ill-thoughts about the teacher, I was just led to believe I was paying to DO something (other than stuff wrappers and eat).

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    Nichole U.
    Reviewed on 05/16/16

    It was fun to make the sushi rolls, but the class was very large and we quickly ran out of rice. I made 1 sushi roll than had to wait 45 minutes for more rice.

    It was fun to make the sushi rolls, but the class was very large and we quickly ran out of rice. I made 1 sushi roll than had to wait 45 minutes for more rice.

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    Emily G.
    Reviewed on 05/16/16

    I did have fun at the class, but I was expecting for it to be more hands-on. We did not make or learn how to make guacamole at all which I was a little disappointed with. I was at the opposite side of the cook making the guac so I didn't see or hear anything. The teacher just made it then handed it out. There was also not enough supplies for Margs- the teacher had to run out in the middle of the class to get more tequila which seemed un-organized since they knew how many people were coming to the class. Also ran out of lime juice right away. Both teachers were really nice though, just needs better planning for next time!

    I did have fun at the class, but I was expecting for it to be more hands-on. We did not make or learn how to make guacamole at all which I was a little disappointed with. I was at the opposite side of the cook making the guac so I didn't see or hear anything. The teacher just made it then handed it out. There was also not enough supplies for Margs- the teacher had to run out in the middle of the class to get more tequila which seemed un-organized since they knew how many people were coming to the class. Also ran out of lime juice right away. Both teachers were really nice though, just needs better planning for next time!

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    James P.
    Reviewed on 04/18/16

    Fun class, lots of time to be hands on with everything. I really wish there were more lessons on how to actually prepare sushi rice or cutting fish for sashimi/nigiri rather than concentrating solely on maki.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for your feedback James! This class was focused on preparing maki and another sushi class will be focused on preparing sashimi hopefully soon. In the essence of time, sushi rice was not elaborated in full detail (as it takes more time than our class allowed) but I will be sending an email that will provide much more detail around the preparation of sushi rice. Thank you again!

    Fun class, lots of time to be hands on with everything. I really wish there were more lessons on how to actually prepare sushi rice or cutting fish for sashimi/nigiri rather than concentrating solely on maki.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for your feedback James! This class was focused on preparing maki and another sushi class will be focused on preparing sashimi hopefully soon. In the essence of time, sushi rice was not elaborated in full detail (as it takes more time than our class allowed) but I will be sending an email that will provide much more detail around the preparation of sushi rice. Thank you again!

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    Laura S.
    Reviewed on 09/07/14

    The class was interesting and I learned things I didn't know, however I was not impressed with the quality of ingredients. The rice was undercooked. The fish was fishy smelling. The seaweed was tough and lacked flavor. It was alot of fun, just not the quality I would expect for 55 bucks a person.

    The class was interesting and I learned things I didn't know, however I was not impressed with the quality of ingredients. The rice was undercooked. The fish was fishy smelling. The seaweed was tough and lacked flavor. It was alot of fun, just not the quality I would expect for 55 bucks a person.

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    Ana D.
    Reviewed on 08/19/14

    I was not quite happy with this class. I expect more out this class and what i actually received. I have taken varies of dabble classes in the pass. I love my experience and was amaze with the knowledge of each instructor I took.

    I was not quite happy with this class. I expect more out this class and what i actually received. I have taken varies of dabble classes in the pass. I love my experience and was amaze with the knowledge of each instructor I took.

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    Martha K.
    Reviewed on 07/20/14

    The class of 16 made for an interesting afternoon; well organized, but Instructor demos difficult to hear & see.
    Delicious, easy sauces & recipes.

    The class of 16 made for an interesting afternoon; well organized, but Instructor demos difficult to hear & see.
    Delicious, easy sauces & recipes.

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    Kari P.
    Reviewed on 07/13/14

    My husband and I took this cupcake/cake pop/cocktails class together. We were excited to learn how to decorate cupcakes to look a little more professional and had little to no experience with cake pops. The space for the class is really cute. Bagels were set out on our arrival, and coffee (semi-)shortly thereafter. The juice and prosecco were not set out until about halfway through the class, and were not announced.

    At each place setting was 6 cupcakes (3 chocolate, 3 vanilla), 2 piping bags, a coupler, 2 tips, and 2 bowls. The teacher provided lots of frosting that she pre-made. She explained how to put the frosting in the piping bag, with one little trick, but is otherwise fairly common knowledge. She provided food coloring and sprinkles and after being told that professional cupcakes look better because the frosting is taller, we were set free to decorate. No real instruction on techniques or how to make various designs. So much for learning how to decorate. Also, she praised Plugra butter, (which she admittedly works for), then said she also uses butter flavoring in her frosting...?

    The cake pops were kind of a disaster. We began mixing the cake/frosting, with no real thought to ratio, which caused them to be really messy. We let them sit for a few minutes, then stuck sticks in them and tried to dip them in semi-melted candy melts. It goes about as well as you can imagine. The pops fall apart and the candy part is just glopped on. We are sent home with "extra" unfinished cake pops and a random mix of unmelted candies.

    Overall, we had fun decorating cupcakes. But, this was not really a class, and even as a "social get-together" it was poorly thought-out and executed. I am pretty appalled that this cost $55 per person. For $55, I could've paid for enough supplies for my friends and invited them to my own house and had the same experience. Instead, for $55, I got 6 small cupcakes, 6 unfinished cake pops, and a mimosa.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for your feedback Kari! I'll be using your feedback to adjust/tweak future classes so appreciate it. I'll be planning for more time before the class to prepare so that details can be focused on (such as the coffee, prosecco, etc) without any distractions. Also, I'll be extending the time for this particular class so I can provide more individual attention and instruction for folks to answer questions and provide guidance, since everyone is coming with different levels of experience. The butter extract used in the frosting was simply to enhance the frosting just a bit further, just as vanilla extract would. I wanted to introduce something different and share that butter extract exists. It wasn't used in place of butter since I've used European butter for the frosting versus Crisco or shortening. As for the cake pops, it certainly didn't work out as planned. A dry run was done before and this class was not the first time taught. So my apologizes for the uncontrollable technical difficulties that the class experienced today. Hopefully the detailed follow up email sent to the class with all the information discussed and shared today will be helpful to address what we were not able to get to due to time constraints. Your feedback is appreciated and has helped me make some changes for future classes so thank you again. ~ Joelen

    My husband and I took this cupcake/cake pop/cocktails class together. We were excited to learn how to decorate cupcakes to look a little more professional and had little to no experience with cake pops. The space for the class is really cute. Bagels were set out on our arrival, and coffee (semi-)shortly thereafter. The juice and prosecco were not set out until about halfway through the class, and were not announced.

    At each place setting was 6 cupcakes (3 chocolate, 3 vanilla), 2 piping bags, a coupler, 2 tips, and 2 bowls. The teacher provided lots of frosting that she pre-made. She explained how to put the frosting in the piping bag, with one little trick, but is otherwise fairly common knowledge. She provided food coloring and sprinkles and after being told that professional cupcakes look better because the frosting is taller, we were set free to decorate. No real instruction on techniques or how to make various designs. So much for learning how to decorate. Also, she praised Plugra butter, (which she admittedly works for), then said she also uses butter flavoring in her frosting...?

    The cake pops were kind of a disaster. We began mixing the cake/frosting, with no real thought to ratio, which caused them to be really messy. We let them sit for a few minutes, then stuck sticks in them and tried to dip them in semi-melted candy melts. It goes about as well as you can imagine. The pops fall apart and the candy part is just glopped on. We are sent home with "extra" unfinished cake pops and a random mix of unmelted candies.

    Overall, we had fun decorating cupcakes. But, this was not really a class, and even as a "social get-together" it was poorly thought-out and executed. I am pretty appalled that this cost $55 per person. For $55, I could've paid for enough supplies for my friends and invited them to my own house and had the same experience. Instead, for $55, I got 6 small cupcakes, 6 unfinished cake pops, and a mimosa.

    From Teacher:

    Thank you for your feedback Kari! I'll be using your feedback to adjust/tweak future classes so appreciate it. I'll be planning for more time before the class to prepare so that details can be focused on (such as the coffee, prosecco, etc) without any distractions. Also, I'll be extending the time for this particular class so I can provide more individual attention and instruction for folks to answer questions and provide guidance, since everyone is coming with different levels of experience. The butter extract used in the frosting was simply to enhance the frosting just a bit further, just as vanilla extract would. I wanted to introduce something different and share that butter extract exists. It wasn't used in place of butter since I've used European butter for the frosting versus Crisco or shortening. As for the cake pops, it certainly didn't work out as planned. A dry run was done before and this class was not the first time taught. So my apologizes for the uncontrollable technical difficulties that the class experienced today. Hopefully the detailed follow up email sent to the class with all the information discussed and shared today will be helpful to address what we were not able to get to due to time constraints. Your feedback is appreciated and has helped me make some changes for future classes so thank you again. ~ Joelen

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