As a kid, your early culinary heroes were of the open, boil, and serve variety. You know: Uncle Ben, Chef Boyardee, Betty Crocker.

But these days, they’ve been replaced by more inaccessible celebrity types. (Read: Puck, Trotter, and co.)

But what if you could have both? Spiaggia chef Tony Mantuano is opening his kitchen for a series of classes inspired by his new cookbook, Eleganza Italiana in Cucina. The four classes will focus on the courses of classic Italian meals and start this Saturday where a real Italian banquet should: with antipasti. Subsequent sessions cover pasta, risotto, and soups on June 25; the main course on August 13; and a sweet finish with i dolci on October 8.

Not only will you get Mantuano’s expert tips, but he’ll also personally prepare you a lunchtime feast that includes the demonstrated recipes, wine, and his Italian-style charm. Sign up for one class or take them all.

Either way, you’ll get a treat just the way you used to like it best: straight from a sweet-talker.

Spiaggia, 980 North Michigan Avenue, second level, at Oak Street. To reserve your space, call (312-280-3300). Classes are held on Saturdays,
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $125 per class or $375 for
all four.