The Great New York Steakhouse

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.

Knowing how to use knives skillfully is the foundation of all cooking, and doesn't have to be scary or frustrating. Many home and even professional cooks don't always wield a knife correctly, however, which increases food preparation time and makes the process harder --- and less safe --- than it should be. Simply put, good knives are the foundation of a well-equipped kitchen. This class remedies all these basic issues: You will learn how to slice, dice, chop, and much more in the safest and most efficient manner. This class will even guide you through the practice of keeping your knives sharp and handling them correctly.

Sushi-making doesn't have to be limited to the view from a seat at your local Japanese restaurant. Bring the sushi bar home by practicing your skills at preparing nigiri (sashimi fish on top of thumb-size, compact sushi rice), perfecting the texture of rice, and learning the proper techniques to create a stellar hand roll. Once you've gotten the basics down, you will try your hand at: sushi rice; maki and futomaki rolls (both thin and thick), inside-out rolls; nigiri and temaki (hand roll).. You will soon learn that sushi is something you too can master.

If you're looking to spend more than a few hours at a recreational class but don’t have the time or the investment for the full-blown professional track, we’ve designed this course especially for you. In this 13-lesson program, you will cover the foundations of the culinary arts, training you to be an accomplished cook. These classes are derived from the same core curriculum as ICE’s culinary career program and will be taught by the school’s top chef-instructors. Throughout the 13 lessons, you will gain a strong understanding of cuisine and its underpinnings.