Questions & Answers

His love of food began as a young boy in Cleveland, Ohio where his father would cook gourmet meals for his family to try.  He is happily married to Catherine Margles.  Dining Dan professes, "fine dining is one of life's greatest pleasures!" 

You can email Dining Dan at Dining Dan

 Whether your question is about the Creative Cooking Schools, wine and food pairings, or dining out in Las Vegas, Dining Dan is your answer man!

Some recent questions and answers are posted here for your review.  The questions and answers are updated on a regular basis so check back often for updates.

What can I expect from a typical cooking class at the Creative Cooking School?
A.M. Beachwood, Ohio
Creative Cooking School (CCS) has something for everyone.  Demonstration classes are usually two to two and one-half hours in duration.  Hands-on classes are four to five hours.  We have classes for kids, beginners and seasoned home chefs as well.  You will receive a student packet including recipes to keep.  Everyone gets to sample all of the dishes prepared in the classes

Will I get hands-on experience cooking?
S.B. Las Vegas, Nevada 
Some of our classes are demonstration style, where teachers prepare and explain while students ask questions, sample ingredients and taste dishes.  In addition we offer hands-on experience for those who want to master a particular subject or series of classes.

Where can I go for a great steak dinner in Las Vegas?
D.B Jr.  Wilton, Connecticut 
The Steakhouse at Circus, Circus is the oldest and perhaps still the best steak house in the city.  The Range at Harrah’s is also quite good.  For off-the-strip dining, I recommend The Golden Steer on west Sahara.

At what level are your classes taught?  Do I have to know how to cook?
M.N. Phoenix, Arizona

Our classes are truly designed to teach students at all levels of experience.  We are happy to help you, by phone or in person, to select a class that is right for you.

Who teaches your classes?  Are the teachers chefs?  Do you ever have guest chefs?
S.M. Brooklyn, New York

Creative Cooking School has a well-educated and trained faculty of teachers.  All of our teachers share a passion for cooking and teaching.  All staff members have attended professional culinary schools.  We will have several Celebrity and Guest Chefs from time to time, from the top gourmet hotel restaurants in Las Vegas.

What if I sign up for a series of classes, and am unable to make one of them?
K.C. Las Vegas, Nevada

If you miss a class you can make it up on another day, or in another quarter, for up to one year.  If you are making up a class, call ahead to see if there’s space, then be sure to bring your receipt (or if you registered online, your confirmation # and picture ID) with you to be admitted to class.

Do you offer gift certificates or group discounts?
H.L. San Francisco, California

Yes, we have gift certificates available for one class or a series of classes.  For group discounts please contact, info@creativecookingschool.com for pricing.

We’re coming to Las Vegas and want to go to the best “Buffets”, can you help us?
T.N. Elmwood Park, Illinois
I recommend the following buffets for a true gourmet buffet experience:

1.      Masquerade Village Seafood Buffet at the Rio.  A little pricey at $26.95 for dinner, but well worth the price.  All the fish is fresh, never frozen.  The only buffet to serve ready to eat mini lobster tails (langoustinos).

2.      Le Village Buffet at the Paris Hotel.  This buffet has a very good French provincial food from five provinces.  Ooh-La-La….King crab legs at dinner too.  Long lines, especially on weekends.

3.       The Garden Court Buffet at Main Street Station Casino, downtown Las Vegas.  Beautiful room with ornate architecture and antique accents.  A huge assortment of everything from Polynesian to Mexican dishes.  Champagne brunch on Sunday is recommended.