MIDDLETOWN – Local culinary school Chic Le Chef is pleased to announce they've listened to many of your ideas and will introduce a new and exciting lineup of culinary classes to begin this summer.

They've recently brought on board four new culinary instructors, each with a unique background and style, to add their own brand of energy and enthusiasm to an interesting mix of classes.

Michelle Dawkins and Esther Oertel will present culinary classes for children and adults, and two local guest chefs will make appearances – Harold Umbretti, a demonstration chef at the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, and Jeremy Zabel, head chef at the Saw Shop Bistro in Kelseyville.

An avid world traveler, Dawkins grew up in a family of chefs and began cooking at an early age. She's a trained pastry chef and especially enjoys baking in the classic French tradition.

Dawkins will begin an international cooking series for youth on July 29 for those between the ages of 11 and 17. The series is designed as an around-the-world culinary adventure with a hands-on approach.

Like Dawkins, Oertel is from a family of chefs. She began developing her own recipes in her family's restaurant kitchen as a young teen and hasn't stopped.

Oertel currently is working on a cookbook featuring healthful, fresh ingredients. Her first class is on cool and refreshing summer salads, sides and sippers, which will be presented on July 10. Later in the month, on July 31, Esther will teach a class on the perfect gourmet picnic.

In addition to sharing his knowledge and humor at the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Harold Umbretti has developed his own line of sauces, marinades and rubs. These and his original recipes can be checked out at www.winecountrychef.net .

Chef Jeremy Zabel has been the head chef at the Saw Shop Bistro for three years. Prior to that, he created 12 years' worth of palate-pleasing fare at Park Place in Lakeport. He will share his secrets on cooking fish.

Most adult classes are taught demonstration style, similar to your favorite Food Network cooking show. Normally four or five different dishes are presented, with a generous tasting after each one, and students go home with complete recipes.

Chic Le Chef is located in the Hardester's Plaza in Hidden Valley Lake. In addition to culinary classes, Chic Le Chef does specialty catering and takeout meals.

To register for classes or for more information on this full service culinary stop, visit www.chiclechef.com or call 707-987-9664.