
What You'll Learn
By the end of the class, you will:
- Be able to identify different cuts of steak and know their flavor and tenderness profiles
- Know how to tell when a steak is cooked exactly to your liking
- Master a homemade steakhouse sauce
- Perfect a classic pan sauce
About This Class
Cooking the perfect steak is something every home cook should master. Techniques vary, as do cuts, so we’ll cover them both in this hands-on class. We’ll talk about selecting the best steaks for any budget and clear up any confusion about beef labels and grades. Different steaks lend themselves to different preparations, cooking times and finishes – we’ll teach you how to cook each type of steak flawlessly and in rapid-fire succession, so you’re sure to walk away confident in your technique for achieving your perfect steak every time.
Menu
Details
- Wine included
- Full meal served in class
- Work in teams
- Ages 18+
FAQ
The average duration of our current cooking classes is 2 hours, which is predominately hands-on work. You will be standing for the majority of class, cooking at your work station as your instructor demonstrates techniques and walks around providing individual feedback.
Due to COVID-19 regulations, we can not have students congregate in the building before class starts. Doors will open 5 minutes prior to class starting and we will begin promptly on time. Students will be asked to queue up outside the door of the school, safely distanced (sidewalks are clearly marked) and will be let in the school just before class begins.
Please arrive at the school with your own mask on. You will be given a new, disposable mask to wear in class to ensure what you have on hasn’t been contaminated prior to entering SFCS. We will have extras available should you need one while at school.
Wear comfortable clothes and close-toed shoes (remember, you’ll be on your feet cooking). The kitchens at SFCS are fully equipped with everything else you need, including clean aprons.
Due to COVID-19 regulations, we will not be serving food or drinks during class, We will, however, be sending you home with both ingredients and finished food items so you can enjoy them later, and practice as well.
Wear casual clothing you can easily move around in, and comfortable close-toed shoes. Long hair must be pulled back and masks, provided by SFCS, are required while in the building.
Cancellation Policy
Mark Lusardi
Mark Lusardi has been part of some of the best restaurants in New York and San Francisco over the past two decades, including Aqua, Rubicon, Vertigo and Mustards Grill. Mark was most recently the Director for Market Hall Caterers in Oakland and has previously been Executive Chef of eleven restaurants. His culinary passions are for rustic Italian and French, Southeast Asian, Japanese, and of course, California cooking, emphasizing pure, vibrant flavors, sustainable seafood and local organic produce.
Eric Lundy

A native Californian with a Midwest upbringing, Eric spent several years as creative director for a premier event/catering company in Detroit and a manager for a Michelin-starred restaurant and specialty food shop in Manhattan. A graduate of San Francisco Cooking School and Francophile who knows how recipes work, Eric is a freelance recipe tester, developer, and food stylist. He’s also a consultant for local food businesses, personal/event chef, and culinary instructor who makes a great drink and throws remarkable dinner parties. When his apron’s off, you can find him cooking, hiking, biking, eating out, entertaining, and exploring great food and wine regions around the globe.
Patty Ponciano

After spending almost 20 years leading travelers all over the world and exploring delicious and exotic cuisines, Patty decided to pursue her passion for cooking. She enrolled and graduated from the Professional Culinary Program at San Francisco Cooking School. Patty trained at the highly rated Italian restaurant, Perbacco, in San Francisco where she learned first-hand the intricacies and complexities of food preparation, presentation, and service. Today, Patty works as a private chef, teaches cooking classes, and still makes time to travel.