Best of Bay: Istanbul Modern

$190 per person

Our Best of Bay classes bring notable, local food talents into our teaching kitchens to share their expertise in a hands-on cooking class.

What You'll Learn

By the end of the class, you will:

  • Identify common Eastern Mediterranean flavor profiles
  • Execute Eastern Mediterranean culinary techniques (layering phyllo dough, filling dolmas, making bread)
  • Understand how basic techniques can be applied to create different renditions of dishes

About This Class

With their hugely successful pop-ups, Sayat and Laura draw on some iconic middle eastern flavors and techniques to create unique dishes rooted firmly in northern California. Join them as they guide you through a menu with influences you will recognize as Turkish, Greek, Armenian, Jewish, Arabic and Persian.

Some cooking done slow and low, and some à la minute, you’ll learn their take on classic dolmas and bourekas, as well less familiar dishes that are sure to become favorites.

Ahead of their pending brick and mortar location, Sayat and Laura are excited to share with you the cuisine that is iconicly Istanbul Modern.

Menu

Armenian Dolmas, Jilbir (or Turkish eggs) with Stewed Chickpeas, Simit, Kitkit Boureks (Phyllo Dough Filled with Custard)

Details

  • Wine included
  • Full meal served in class
  • Work in teams
  • Ages 18+

FAQ

What is the format of a typical cooking class?

The average duration of our cooking classes is 4 hours, and they are broken down into three segments: Introductory lecture or demo, hands-on cooking, and eating.

The class will begin with a short discussion or demo from your instructor. After, you can expect to work either on a team or individually to prepare the class menu. As a group, your class will prepare the selected menu in its entirety. In most classes, not every student will make every dish.

Learning happens throughout the class, and your instructor will often call out key techniques as they happen in each recipe.

Most classes conclude by sitting down as a group to eat what you’ve prepared, followed by a discussion of each recipe. You will leave with a copy of the recipe packet and a working knowledge of every dish that was made so you can recreate them at home.

When should I arrive for my class?

Doors open 15 minutes before the class start time.

What do I need to bring with me to class?

You do not need to bring anything with you to class, unless otherwise noted in the class description. The kitchens at SFCS are fully equipped and aprons, recipes, equipment, food and wine are all provided for you. 

Do I need to eat before class?

In most classes, you will be sitting down to eat a complete meal that you have prepared along with your classmates. Since this typically occurs towards the end of the class period, an appetizer or small plate is usually prepared early on in class. However, you’re welcome to additionally have a snack before you arrive or bring one with you.

Please note, for our Baking & Pastry classes, a light meal will be provided for you.

What should I wear to class?

We suggest wearing casual clothing you can easily move around in, and highly recommend wearing comfortable closed-toe shoes. Long hair should be pulled back.

More FAQ

Cancellation Policy

Any cancellation up to two weeks prior to your class start date will be refunded 100%. Cancellations up to 5 days before your class start date will qualify for an online credit to be applied to another class. No refunds or credits will be issued for cancellations received less than 5 days before your class start date, however, you may always send a friend in your place if you’re unable to attend.
Please note: Cancellation requests made the day of class are not eligible for a refund or credit, no exceptions. 
View our full cancellation policy

Related Classes