The Local Epicurean - Grand Rapids

The Local Epicurean's flagship sits on Wealthy Street in Eastown. There are no seats to book on your own here. You bring your own group, anywhere from two people to more than 80. An instructor leads you through a set three-course menu, and then everyone sits down to eat what they made. Most experiences cost $99 to $129 a person, depending on the menu.

Team building is a big part of the business. Companies can book a Three Course Dinner Bonding night or a Mystery Basket Challenge, where teams make tiramisu or British trifle from a crate of ingredients. There's also the Food for Thought Challenge, a risotto build from a table of seasonal vegetables, cheese, chicken and shrimp. Menu choices cover gluten free, vegan, duck, lamb and lobster.

There's a full bar with 20 wines by the glass, specialty cocktails and local beer. Outside alcohol isn't allowed. The shop also sells handmade pasta, sauces, take-and-bake meals and wine, and it hosts Wine Passport tasting events. You book by phone, ideally 3 to 6 weeks ahead.