Looking for a private chef or personal chef in Chicago? Meet Nancy, a warm and welcoming culinary professional who makes guests feel at home from the moment she arrives. A cooking instructor at Sur La Table, Nancy has been passionate about cooking for as long as she can remember and loves sharing her food, culture, and family traditions with guests from around the world. Nancy’s cooking blends professional culinary training with the soulful flavors of traditional Italian or Chicago style cuisine.
Please note menu might vary. If there are particular dishes you are interested in trying, please include your request in the booking form.
In-home meal: (2-10 guests) As a personal chef in Chicago, Nancy brings restaurant quality Italian cuisine and classic Chicago style deep dish pizza directly to your home or vacation rental. Each private chef experience is fully customized, from menu planning to cooking and service, allowing you to relax and enjoy an effortless in home dining experience. You will enjoy a thoughtfully prepared four course meal in the comfort of your own space. A typical menu features authentic Italian favorites such as bruschetta, fresh handmade pasta, a seasonal salad, and a signature homemade dessert. Prefer Chicago-style deep dish pizza instead of pasta? Just let Nancy know at least 3 days prior. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, romantic dinners, or small celebrations, this intimate private chef experience in Chicago is ideal for travelers, couples, families, and small groups seeking a meaningful and delicious way to connect over food. Along the way, Nancy shares stories, traditions, and warm hospitality that make the evening feel personal and memorable. Enjoy a stress free private dining experience without leaving your space, thoughtfully prepared and served family style by a local personal chef who is passionate about creating unforgettable meals.
Cooking experience: (2-10 guests) Enjoy a hands-on cooking class in Chicago with Nancy, a warm and welcoming local chef who brings authentic Italian cooking and classic Chicago style deep dish pizza into your home or vacation rental. This personalized in-home cooking experience begins with introductions before diving into a relaxed, interactive lesson designed for all skill levels. During this 1.5 to 2 hour private cooking class, you will prepare a seasonal four course meal from scratch, including an appetizer, fresh salad, handmade pasta with sauce or Chicago style deep dish pizza, and Nancy’s signature dessert. If you choose the pizza option, Nancy will guide you through sauce preparation, toppings, and assembling your pie. The dough is prepared in advance to allow time for rising. For pasta lovers, learn to make fresh pasta from scratch and pair it with a flavorful sauce. As the dough rests or pizza bakes, you will prepare a fresh salad and homemade dressing. The experience ends by sitting down to enjoy the meal you created, with optional white or red wine add ons. Printed recipes are included so you can recreate the dishes at home, and Nancy takes care of all cleanup. Ideal for families, couples, and small groups seeking a fun and interactive cooking class in Chicago. Dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, lactose free, and gluten free options, can be accommodated when shared at booking.
Notes: If at least two guests choose the optional alcohol add-on, Nancy offers white and red wine. Please remember to include your address in the "Note to Host" field when booking.
Languages spoken: English
This was such a great experience for the whole family! Nancy made it very fun and the pizza was delicious! We look forward to making Chicago pizza at home.- Marge February 10, 2026
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