Named after the Italian visionary painter and inventor, the Leonardo Da Vinci (LDV) Centre, located in St Leonard, is an innovative community and cultural center that lives up to the high standards of its namesake. By providing artistic, sporting and social events, the centre, which is operated by the Italian-Canadian Foundation of Quebec, aims to celebrate Montreal's Italian community and build bridges that strengthen the bonds between cultures.

Not only does the LDV Centre boast a bistro, two theaters, and a fitness club, it also offers a number of courses, including culinary classes that are hosted by an international cast of local chefs.

Christina Mucciardi, Director of culinary activities at the LDV Centre highlights the wide variety of culinary courses the community centre provides, including cooking classes for kids. “We have been offering children's cooking courses once a month, but due to the positive response, we are now adding a second offering," says Mucciardi. The baking and cooking classes are held on the weekend from 11 am to 1 pm. "Children are taught two or three recipes per class by one of the numerous in-house chefs the Centre employs and best of all, at the end of each course, the children are invited consume the dishes they have created."

Mucciardi notes that parents are welcome to accompany their children during the class. “Or, they can enjoy an espresso at our bistro or take a yoga class at the Centre's sport's facility,” she adds.

Adult cooking classes are featured four times a week, mostly on weeknights with the occasional course offered during the afternoon on weekends. Whether you are interested in learning how to make the perfect pizza or sushi, Mucciardi ensures that there is a class that is right for you. “If you'd like to learn classic Italian, Cooking with Nonna might be what you're looking for. Participants learn from our authentic Italian grandmother who is happy to share the family recipes that have been passed down to her,” Mucciardi says.

The Centre offers more than Italian food courses. If you're interested in expanding your knowledge of Indian food, be prepared to be entertained. The chef/owner of Bland is Boring Co., Ali Hassan, is an actor and stand-up comic who specializes in meals from the subcontinent.

With a stable of 21 chefs providing insights into a variety of world cuisines, Mucciardi raves about the quality of the Centre's instructors. "Shut Up and Eat food blogger, Jason Lee, who offers Dim Sum and Asian baking courses is a great addition to our team." On his blog, Lee notes that his family roots run deep into the Montreal food scene. As a teacher, he brings his love of love of food and his ability to remember conversations and standout dishes that he has enjoyed at a plethora of Montreal restaurants.

But whoever the chef is, Mucciardi promises that a great experience will be had by all. “Our classes are small, with no more than eight to ten participants per course, ensuring a hands-on approach to learning.” Courses are two or three hours in length, but dessert classes may run a bit longer because of the extra work they require.

Children's courses are 35 dollars, and adult classes are 75 dollars or four for 250 dollars. For more information, you can contact the Leonardo Da Vinci Centre at (514) 955-8370.