CAPS: NYC Couple Fondant Modeling Workshop

Kick off the year by sharpening one of the most essential skills in the kitchen. Join Steven Gao—Institute of Culinary Education alumnus, professional cook, and culinary content creator behind @stevenmotocooks—for an engaging, hands-on Knife Skills Workshop designed to bring professional kitchen techniques into an approachable, real-world setting. The evening begins with a guided introduction to knife fundamentals, where Steven draws on his training as an ICE alumnus and experience spanning culinary school to Michelin-starred restaurants. He’ll break down proper grip, stance, safety, and efficiency—helping you understand not just how to cut, but why technique, consistency, and intention matter in professional cooking. Steven will lead a live demonstration covering a range of essential knife cuts and techniques commonly used in professional kitchens, focusing on control, consistency, and efficiency. After the demo, you’ll roll up your sleeves and practice these techniques yourself using fresh ingredients, with personalized guidance throughout. To close the evening, enjoy lite bites and a selection of mocktails and cocktails, followed by an interactive Q&A with Steven—a chance to ask questions, get tips, dive deeper into professional culinary techniques and learn more about Steve. Whether you’re a home cook looking to build confidence, an aspiring chef developing core skills, or simply eager to understand professional culinary standards, this workshop offers a supportive, hands-on environment grounded in transparency and intention—because great food begins with understanding.

Braising - searing at a high temperature, then finishing in a liquid at a lower temperature to infuse flavor - can add umami and more to pretty much any meal! And the best part is, it creates tender, juicy dishes with a minimum of effort. We'll master this technique as we make a braised banquet of: Guinness-braised short ribs with creamy polenta; braised chicken thighs with mushrooms and balsamic vinegar and braised fennel.

In this fun-focused class, kids and their parents will spend a morning or evening making, and then eating, all kinds of pizza. You'll work together to make, construct and bake: pizza dough; tomato sauce; pizza toppings including prosciutto, fresh herbs and sautéed vegetables; and dessert pizza. *Limit 2 children per adult. All children and teens must be accompanied by an adult. Everybody attending class must be registered.*

Get ready to unleash your sweet tooth in this fun hands-on class dedicated to all things marshmallow! Whether you're a marshmallow aficionado or just looking to learn how to elevate your snack game, this class has something for everyone. In this session, you'll master the art of homemade marshmallows and honey graham crackers. You'll have the chance to choose your marshmallows from three mouth-watering flavors: vanilla bean, espresso, or fresh cinnamon! To take things to the next level, we'll show you how to make chocolate-covered marshmallow cookies, a sweet treat that's sure to impress your friends and family. And of course, no marshmallow adventure would be complete without the ultimate s'mores, where you'll combine everything you've learned into the classic campfire favorite with a gourmet twist.