easy
3 hours
No special physical fitness required; suitable for all ages and skill levels
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with Chef Mat’s hands-on cooking class in Berkeley, California. Learn to make authentic Green Papaya Salad and Pad Thai, and savor your culinary creations in a lively, 3-hour session designed for all skill levels.
Oakland • Fri, Dec 26
Join our Thai Favorites cooking class for a delightful 3-hour culinary adventure! Learn to create popular dishes like Green Papaya Salad and Shrimp & Tofu Pad Thai under the guidance of experienced Chef Mat. Enjoy a fun, hands-on experience with delicious flavors and the chance to savor your creations at the end!
3 hours
Oakland Kitchen - 6506 San Pablo Ave, Oakland, CA 94608
If you love Thai food, you're going to love our Thai Favorites cooking class! We'll teach you how to make some popular restaurant dishes. Each dish is packed with delicious flavor, and best of all, they're all easy to make. So join us for a fun-filled evening of amazing Thai cuisine!
• Green Papaya Salad • Tom Kha (coconut milk and herb soup) with wild mushrooms • Shrimp & Tofu Pad Thai • Chicken Larb Lettuce Cups *can substitute tempeh
Each class will begin with a lecture from the chef about the day’s theme and recipes. After this introduction, the group will break up into smaller teams, and start working on the recipes in the class menu. A snack will be served at the beginning of class, and you will be eating the dishes you make at the end of class. You are welcome to eat as much as you’d like in class, though unfortunately, our zoning permit does not allow us to have students take food home.
• Masks are optional. • COVID protocols are subject to change to reflect local and state mandates.
• Close toed shoes are mandatory. High heels, open toed shoes, sandals, flip flops are NOT allowed in the kitchen. • Shoulder-length hair or longer needs to be worn back and away from your face; we have plenty of hair ties in the kitchen for you to use and keep. • Feel free to bring a favorite apron or a knife you want to practice with but know that we will supply aprons and all the tools you need for use during class.
Please take a look at the class menu. If you think you might be allergic to anything on the menu, please indicate it on your class registration and if you have a concern, get in touch and we can double check the ingredient list classes@kitchenonfire.com.
We whole-heartedly invite class participants (who are 21 and older) to bring any wine or beer they would like to enjoy during class for personal consumption. Kitchen on Fire employees cannot open or serve beverages you bring into the kitchen. We cannot sell or distribute alcohol and we uphold ABC regulations. No minor can drink and we cannot have intoxicated students attending a class.
Growing up in a family full of chefs and kosher caterers in New Jersey, Mat Wertlieb has felt at home in a kitchen since childhood. He first fell in love with the unique culinary scene of the Bay Area while working an externship at One Market Restaurant in 2000. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, he spent a year and a half in Boston’s busiest restaurant, Grill 23, before the pull of Northern California’s food culture drew him back. He has worked for the past decade at some of the most successful restaurants in San Francisco and Berkeley, including Lark Creek Inn, Farallon, Lalimes, and Gather. Trips to Italy and Israel furthered his exposure and passion for the various cuisines of the world. Chef Mat works full-time teaching classes with the Kitchen on Fire team including his own guest chef classes, the 12-Week Basics Series, Knife Skills and private events.
Protection from splashes and spills ensures you stay comfortable during hands-on cooking.
The class ends with a shared meal, so come prepared to enjoy delicious Thai dishes you helped create.
You’ll be on your feet prepping and cooking, so supportive footwear will keep you steady.
Chef Mat encourages interaction to deepen your understanding of Thai cooking techniques and ingredients.
Berkeley has a rich food culture history tied to the farm-to-table movement and vibrant international influences, making it a diverse culinary hub.
Berkeley promotes sustainable food practices and urban agriculture, reflected in the focus on fresh, local ingredients in cooking classes like this one.
Essential to keep your clothes clean during the hands-on cooking preparation.
Useful for jotting down recipes and tips from Chef Mat.
Stay hydrated throughout the class.
Protects your feet while cooking and standing for extended periods.