Testimonials

“I started taking Denise’s cooking classes at her store for fun, thinking that, accomplished cook that I am, she wouldn’t have much to teach me. Boy, was I wrong!  I learned—and continue to learn—something new at every class.  And I used the recipes I took home from those classes again and again (and again) because they were REALLY GOOD.  I was thrilled to hear that she was finally coming out with a cookbook.  I expected all the recipes she included to be ones that I would want to make, and I was right.  What I didn’t expect is that the accompanying photos would be so stunning.  This is not only a cookbook, it’s an art book.  And it’s a perfect gift for anyone you know who loves to cook, or who wants to learn.”

— Elizabeth Berg, New York Times bestselling author

“You are an inspiration to so many... whether it is your ability to infuse confidence in the kitchen of a recent student or how you never gave up on your dream and took a chance. There is no doubt your passion for life spills into your dishes and your teaching... The Lobster and Sauce classes hold special places in my belly! I look forward to many more classes…”

— DavidJWduxc (from Oprah.com © during your “OWN” © reality show competition)

“Flavour is a female chef-owned small business (7 years old as of this review) with a unique setup.  It is both a cooking school and a gourmet kitchen store.
 First, the school part…The instructors have taken me from an adequate, mom-trained home cook who watches Alton Brown to someone who is now coming up with his own recipes when he entertains.  The reason?  Denise and her staff teach to technique and principle, rather than recipe.  

Yes, the classes (about a dozen students at most) are built around a theme and you go home with a set of recipes, but it's a sophisticated system, with beginner classes covering kitchen knife skills, 101 courses on the basics of fish, chicken, vegetables and so on, all the way up to master classes devoted to a single dish…  ”

— Eric F (Yelp ©, 12/5/2010)

“I have taken many classes at Denise's cooking school, Flavour in Forest Park. The first time I had Denise as the chef teaching that evening's class I told her, "you should be on TV"... Denise is energetic & funny, and her presentations/classes are informative & animated. What Denise has created at Flavour is more than just a cooking school...it is a place with a great energy that has become an oasis from my daily life. It is a place that I learn about cooking and truly relax; I look forward to going back month after month.”

— ajil (from Oprah.com © during your “OWN” © reality show competition)

“The spirit and belief statement that holds Flavour above any other cooking school / classes – technique over recipe.  …You were a singular stellar example of people sharing their skills and their dreams.”

— Barb R (customer endorsement)

“Wish I could give it an extra star!  I attended the "elements of flavor" class recently and was completely blown away!  Denise is a consummate professional; obviously well trained in and passionate about her craft.  I took the class on a whim and could not have been more impressed.  Denise held our attention for over THREE hours and it wasn't even a hands on class - so amazing.  I could have listened to her talk about flavors all night; she was engaging, witty and relevant!  I can't wait to return for more classes and truly feel I've stumbled upon a gem!  Thank you!!!”

— L. G. (Yelp ©)

“…I just wanted to write and let you know that I am grateful to you and to Flavour…I wanted you to know that I truly think that a measure (maybe THE most important measure) of what we do in life and if we are "successful" is if we make a positive difference in the lives of others. Even just one person. And I can honestly say, that you did it! I'm your one (although I know I'm not the only one).  I have knife skills, I mise en place (is that a verb?), I heat my pan (I did tonight), I season as I cook. I learned how to can and preserve. I knew the answers to the questions you asked today. I've made some amazing meals for loved ones and I've enjoyed every minute in class of watching and learning how to cook better - because of you and Flavour. I heard in some movie once that cooking was the only art form that truly nourishes. Amen to that. …Gratefully yours.”

— Ally S (customer endorsement)