The last winner of Bravo's hit show 'Top Chef' was Chicagoan Stephanie Izard, former chef of the now shuttered Scylla. Izard was an inspiration to many aspiring Chicago chefs, especially women in a male-dominated field. Not everyone who has culinary aspirations has the time or money to train like a professional chef in a proper culinary school program, but for those who would like to hone their skills a bit, Chicago's Chopping Block, with locations at Merchandise Mart and in Lincoln Square, is a fabulous resource.
The Chopping Block is known for its hands-on cooking classes, especially its incredibly popular knife skills class which, among other skills, teaches students how to properly and quickly slice an onion without tearing up and embarrassing themselves in front of dinner guests. On Oct. 4, the Merchandise Mart location is hosting a trunk show from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in which representatives from top culinary lines like All Clad, Emile Henry, Rosle, Le Creuset, Terry's Toffee, The Cocoa Room, and Global Knives will be on hand for demonstrations and tastings. Comments from attendees to this free event will help the Chopping Block staff decide on future products and wares to sell in the retail portion of their shops. Reservations are not required.
