September 22, 2016
Cooking Classes
Not knowing exactly what to expect, I bought tickets to a cooking class for kids atMaggiano’s Little Italy in Kenwood Towne Centre in Cincinnati, Ohio. The information was found on their Facebook page. Apparently, this chain has kid’s classes all over the United States.
When asked if she would like to go, Sophia was beyond excited. She loves helping in the kitchen and has expressed a desire to be a chef.
The extra bonus was that we would be making treats for our dog Lady, her Dad’s dog Winston, and Sunny her other grandma’s dog. A portion of the proceeds from the cooking class will be donated to Tri-State CART, a local Animal Response Team, and Brother Wolf Animal Rescue to help with search and recovery efforts in Louisiana.
When we arrived at the restaurant, we were directed to the lady’s room to wash our hands. Then, we were escorted to a banquet room with large round tables. A chef’s hat sat at each place and an apron was draped over the back of each chair.
A couple of aluminum take out containers, a pair of disposable food service gloves, a bowl of dry oatmeal, a small container of water, and a couple of plastic spoons were placed at each setting. A large bowl of pumpkin puree sat in the middle of the table.
Printed recipes for two dishes, one for the dog treat and one for lasagna were also on the table.
Several children along with a parent or grandparent filled most of the chairs in the room. The class was for children 5 and up, who had to be accompanied by an adult. One of the boys with his grandmother had been to these cooking classes before.
Chef Karl introduced himself and gave some interesting information about the restaurant and about the food service business. He also quizzed the kids on different vegetables and herbs, passing those around so the kids could familiarize themselves with some of the ingredients.
Kristin, who worked at the restaurant, gave directions on how to make the ‘No-Bake Dog Treats’ first. The treats are actually good for the dogs. I didn’t realize that the adults would be making these, too. Sophia was tickled. She wanted to be sure there would be treats for all of her dog friends. She listened attentively and took it very seriously.
After mixing the ingredients, we were instructed to roll the oatmeal mixture into small balls for the dogs. Sophia got creative with hers and rolled one into a cylindrical shape and one into a patty. She said Winston would like those shapes better. 
The lid was placed on that container, the mess and plastic gloves were whisked away, and it was on to the lasagna.
Chef Karl explained the ingredients and demonstrated how to assemble the lasagna in the containers. The kids all listened and watched attentively. Then it was their turn.
The container was layered with marinara sauce, lasagna pasta, ricotta cheese filling, parmesan cheese, meat filling, mozzarella cheese, the layers were repeated, and then it was topped off with provolone cheese. That container was sealed shut. The empty bowls, the used gloves, and mess were once again whisked away.
Then, plates, napkins, and silverware were placed on the table. Next, bowls of pasta and salad were served family style. I don’t know what is in it, but the salad dressing is, without a doubt, the best I have ever had! ( Couldn’t get the recipe, but Chef Karl gave us a little takeout container with some to take home!)
All in all, we got a lot for the price of the ticket! A cooking class, dog treats, a meal, a take-home meal to bake and share with the family, and a memorable afternoon with my granddaughter!
Yes, if you have a little aspiring chef in your family, I would recommend these classes. The kids all seemed to really enjoy the class. I can guarantee Sophia will be making lasagna soon, and of course, more dog treats. Lady, Winston, and Sunny all love them!
Cooking Classes For Little Kids at Local Restaurants? Yes, there are probably some close to you!
