When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Kendall College
Why Kendall College is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kendall College, established in 1934 and located in Evanston, Illinois, is a distinguished private liberal arts institution renowned for its culinary arts and hospitality management programs. Its deep history and evolution into a subsidiary of National Louis University in Chicago reflect its commitment to specialized higher education. The college offers over 30 undergraduate majors, including unique programs like a dual-degree with Northwestern University and options for students to design their own majors, supporting diverse academic interests. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, enhancing student success and engagement.
The campus environment is vibrant yet safe, situated conveniently with access to public transportation, promoting an active student life. Kendall fosters community involvement, encouraging participation in clubs, sports, and local service activities. Comprehensive student support services such as academic advising, tutoring, and health counseling are readily available, nurturing a supportive learning atmosphere.
Its culinary school is especially notable, with links to prestigious institutions like Les Roches International and Glion Institute in Europe, allowing valuable global exchange opportunities. The college recently moved to a significant location in Chicago’s Goose Island while retaining its Evanston roots, blending rich academic tradition with modern facilities. Kendall College stands out as an excellent choice for students interested in hospitality, culinary arts, and a broad liberal arts education in a collegial, resource-rich environment.
Here's what people think of Kendall College
As of recent, Kendall College holds a 4.1-star rating based on 73 reviews.
Reviews of Kendall College highlight its strong academic programs, particularly in culinary arts and hospitality management, noting the quality of instruction and dedicated faculty. Positive feedback frequently mentions the college's supportive environment, the manageable class sizes fostering close interactions with professors, and the ample opportunities for hands-on learning and internships that prepare students for real-world careers.
Students appreciate the college's community atmosphere and the variety of extracurricular activities available, which enhance the overall campus experience. The partnership with international institutions and transfer opportunities are also seen as significant advantages, enriching students’ educational and cultural exposure.
On the other hand, some negative reviews point to concerns about administrative issues such as communication delays and financial aid complexities. A few students have mentioned challenges with campus facilities or program changes after the college integration into National Louis University, which they found somewhat disruptive.
Overall, the reviews depict Kendall College as a reputable and well-regarded institution that excels in its specialized fields, with a student-centric approach and a welcoming community. While there are areas for improvement in administrative processes, the positive aspects overwhelmingly affirm its status as a great place to meet friends, learn, and build a strong career foundation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Theresa Humanicki
Holiday Cookie Exchange was fantastic! Went with 12 friends and work colleagues. Class is lead by seasoned chefs who are faculty members. Simple to complex cookie recipes and you get to take home 16 different cookies (about 6.5 dozen).
Brett Hayes
We enjoyed the culinary camp for a week. Learned many things and at professional facility. The evening events were good as well. The instructors provided great references and skill improvement for the students. The assistants were mostly helpful. There was one that needed to not be so arrogant and bossy, instead should have put the energy to helping the class. In the end it was a good experience and the food which was prepared was great. The final day everyone got to try the other classes (baking, world cuisine ) meals as well. We will put this on the list for next year to review the new organization's changes.
Shrey S
I was a student here. This university is absolutely overrated. I did the Hospitality Management Course. Education quality 4/10 Value for money 2/10 Student life 3/10 Extra Curriculum 2/10 This school only values money and nothing else. The teachers are demotivated, quality of teachers has dropped down. I wouldn't recommend anyone to go here for their HOSPITALITY program.
Cedric McCay
Recently, I had a chance to experience a reception here. The food was always very hot or very cold, as it needed to be. The professionalism of the students and their presentation was very well done. I enjoyed everything, but he dishes which were Asian influenced seem to be best prepared that night. Recommended.
Emily Seto
This is a review of the cooking classes that Kendall offers. I've been to several of them (knife skills, sushi, and couples' brunch) and enjoyed the final products that we made. However, their facilities are not really designed for classes. You are literally in an industrial kitchen, with pans hanging from the walls, and it's tough to see and hear the instructor. My sushi class was taught by a French chef with a very thick accent, and my couples' brunch class was really a group of about 10 folks per table working together (so much for "couples".) The cooking equipment isn't great, either - we were using pans that were so curvy from use that they wouldn't even lay straight on the grill. They do have lots of Groupons or other deals for classes, though, which makes the classes affordable.
How to reach Kendall College
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Why Kendall College may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Kendall College with your friends? Because it offers an unparalleled combination of exquisite dining, hands-on culinary experiences, and a warm social atmosphere that makes for a memorable group gathering. Kendall College is renowned for its culinary arts and hospitality management programs, but beyond education, it serves as a vibrant community hub where friends and families can share the joy of exceptional food and fun cooking activities. Whether you're savoring a chef-prepared meal from talented culinary students or rolling up your sleeves in an interactive cooking class, Kendall College provides a setting that sparks connection and learning. The setting itself is stunning, with views of the Chicago skyline enhancing the dining experience. The friendly, professional guidance from instructors and students ensures you feel both welcomed and engaged. This makes Kendall College not just a restaurant or a classroom, but a lively place where social bonds are strengthened over beautifully crafted dishes and the shared thrill of culinary discovery.
What types of dining experiences does Kendall College offer for groups?
Kendall College features a remarkable dining series that is ideal for groups looking for both casual and fine dining experiences with a twist. Their celebrated Monday Night Dining Series offers a chance to witness culinary students in action as they prepare and serve multi-course meals under the guidance of expert chefs. This “living classroom” approach lets guests enjoy exquisite, contemporary dishes crafted with skill and passion right before their eyes. Beyond Monday nights, their dinner service runs Tuesday through Friday, making weekday meetups an attractive option. For groups, this means a vibrant atmosphere that balances professional quality with the warmth of student enthusiasm. Guests also enjoy curated craft cocktails and a selection of unique wines and beers, perfect for toasting special occasions or simply enjoying a relaxed evening together. Importantly, all gratuities go towards scholarship funds supporting the students, so dining here also feels like giving back to the community. This setting is large enough to accommodate sizeable groups with a capacity of up to 300, ensuring everyone can dine comfortably and enjoyably.
What makes Kendall College’s culinary classes perfect for a group activity?
Kendall College offers hands-on cooking classes that are particularly well-suited to groups looking to do something interactive and fun together. These classes are held in professional-style kitchens, giving participants a true sense of what it’s like to be culinary students. The classes are led by expert instructors and supported by students who assist with everything from preparing ingredients to cleanup, allowing participants to focus fully on the experience. Group members learn practical cooking skills, from bread making to exploring different techniques and ingredients, in an engaging environment where questions and curiosity are encouraged. These classes are unique because they blend education with entertainment—a group can bond through shared learning, laughter, and the satisfaction of creating delicious food together. After class, groups get to take home what they’ve prepared, adding a lasting memory and tangible reward for their effort. This makes Kendall College’s classes an ideal choice for foodies and anyone interested in a meaningful, immersive culinary experience with friends or family.
How does Kendall College support a group-friendly environment beyond food?
Beyond exceptional food and cooking classes, Kendall College provides a community-centric atmosphere tailored to group meetups of all kinds. The college’s facilities are wheelchair accessible and designed to be welcoming to a diverse audience. For those traveling in groups or organizing special events, amenities such as on-site motorcoach parking ease logistics, making visiting hassle-free. The learning environment at Kendall encourages inclusivity and interaction, nurturing a spirit of shared curiosity whether you are there for an evening meal or a full culinary workshop. Groups can also enjoy team-building programs designed to foster collaboration and camaraderie, making the college an excellent venue for corporate outings or social club meetups. Since the college is centrally located near Chicago’s downtown area, major landmarks, and airports, it is easy for everyone in a group to access, enhancing its appeal as a convenient gathering point.
Why is the view and location important when choosing Kendall College for a meetup?
Kendall College is situated right in the heart of Chicago, offering stunning city skyline views that enhance any social gathering. Dining or taking classes here means you are not only tasting exceptional food but also soaking in an ambiance that reflects the vibrancy and beauty of Chicago. The downtown location—just minutes from Navy Pier and McCormick Place—makes the college a prime spot for locals and visitors alike to rally before or after exploring the city. This setting provides a sophisticated backdrop that elevates casual meetups into memorable occasions. Whether your group appreciates urban scenery, city lights at dusk, or simply the convenience of a central location, Kendall College delivers on all these fronts. The ability to combine a cultural and culinary outing in the same venue adds to the overall experience, making it a place where friendships deepen amid inspiring surroundings.
How does dining at Kendall College benefit the local community and students?
When you dine at Kendall College, your group supports more than just a meal—you contribute to the future of culinary arts education. The college operates its dining events as part of a scholarship fund, meaning all tips and gratuities go directly to support students’ education and development. This creates a sense of shared investment and pride among diners, students, and faculty alike. Your group's patronage helps foster the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals, adding a meaningful dimension to what might otherwise be a simple night out. This connection to the community encourages a warm, welcoming atmosphere, as students and instructors are motivated not only to teach and serve but also to cultivate lasting relationships with guests. By hosting a meetup at Kendall College, groups participate in a cycle of giving back and receiving exceptional service, making the experience truly rewarding on multiple levels.
What kinds of groups benefit most from visiting Kendall College?
Kendall College is ideally suited for a broad variety of groups, from families and friends to corporate teams, club members, or culinary enthusiasts. Families appreciate the chance to introduce children to gourmet dining experiences in a friendly, approachable setting. Friends benefit from the interactive nature of cooking classes and the lively atmosphere of the dining series, which encourages socialization and teamwork. Corporate groups can utilize the team-building programs designed to promote collaboration and morale in a unique educational environment. Culinary fanatics and those new to cooking alike find the college’s classes inspiring and informative, making it an excellent destination for food-focused meetups. Because the venue caters to up to 300 people and offers accessible facilities and parking, large groups, too, can comfortably gather, creating a day or evening full of shared enjoyment and discovery.
What unique culinary experiences can groups expect at Kendall College?
Groups dining or learning at Kendall College can expect uniquely tailored culinary experiences that go beyond typical restaurant service. The college’s students and instructors bring fresh ideas, creativity, and professional techniques to the table, resulting in dishes that are both innovative and expertly crafted. During the Monday Night Dining Series and regular dinner services, guests might explore seasonal menus that highlight fresh, local ingredients, gaining insights into current food trends and presentation artistry. Cooking classes can delve into specific themes, such as artisan bread making, regional cuisine, or mixology, each allowing participants to develop practical skills while having fun. These curated programs are designed to engage all senses and inspire greater appreciation for the culinary arts. This hands-on, educational approach creates a shared journey for groups that is both enjoyable and enriching—a perfect recipe for a memorable meetup.