With two Chicago locations and at least one vegetarian-specific class per month, chances are you'll find what you're looking for at The Chopping Block. Depending upon your price range and taste for adventure, you can choose from demo-only ($35) and hands-on classes ($75), either on-site or at your home, or buy a set of six classes for a discount ($375 for hands-on session and $189 for demos).

While students will enjoy preparing (and eating) a wide variety of dishes, classes are skill-set-oriented, meaning that the menu for the class is designed to teach students specific cooking techniques...hence the title "Building Block Series." Students who complete all 24 classes should have comparable knowledge to culinary school grads, with experience geared toward home-cooking.

Drop by for Sunday brunch at the Lincoln Square location. For a mere $20 you can get in on one of three seatings (10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.) during which time a three-to-four course meal will be prepared before your very eyes and served with coffee or tea. Not all brunches are vegetarian, but if you make arrangements for your group ahead of time your dietary needs will be deliciously accommodated. Don't forget to take notes!

Centerstage Reviewer: Courtney Arnold