MaterSteak: Tuscan Steak Cooking Class with Unlimited Wine

Traveling to Florence and craving an authentic, delicious culinary experience? This MaterSteak class promises more than just a meal; it’s an immersive journey into Tuscan flavors, charged with the energy of a local chef and the charm of Florence’s food traditions. With a focus on mastering the iconic Fiorentina steak and enjoying a three-course meal paired with unlimited wine, it’s an experience that hits all the right notes for food lovers.

What makes this experience stand out? We particularly appreciate the hands-on approach, the local expertise of the chef, and the authenticity of the ingredients and techniques. The opportunity to visit Florence’s historic Sant’Ambrogio Market adds a genuine local touch, offering insights into Tuscan produce straight from passionate vendors.

However, a potential consideration is the duration—at around 3 to 4 hours, it’s a fulfilling experience but might feel a bit intense for those with tight schedules or little patience for long cooking sessions. Still, for anyone eager to learn traditional techniques in a relaxed, friendly environment, this class is a fantastic fit.

Ideal for travelers who love cooking, wine, and seeing local culture, this tour suits both beginners eager to learn and seasoned home chefs wanting to refine their skills. It’s especially appealing if you want a memorable meal paired with expert guidance and a lively, authentic atmosphere.

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Key Points

Authentic Tuscan Experience: Learn from a local Florentine chef in a dedicated, cozy kitchen setting.
Hands-On Cooking: Prepare a full three-course meal, including the famous Fiorentina steak, with practical tips.
Visit a Historic Market: Explore Sant’Ambrogio Market (morning tours), enjoying Florence’s food scene.
Unlimited Wine & Vinsanto: Enjoy generous glasses of Tuscan wine alongside your meal.
Culinary Skills for Home: Gain techniques that will elevate your barbecue or dinner parties back home.
Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the MaterSteak Experience

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The Location and Setting

This class is based in the heart of Florence, within a commonly bustling yet intimate kitchen space. The small group size of up to 8 people guarantees hands-on engagement and allows the chef, a true Florentine from the Sant’Ambrogio neighborhood, to give personalized tips. The location’s centrality means you’re near historic sites and lively neighborhoods, making it easy to explore after the class.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

Starting with the Market Visit (Morning Tours Only)

If you opt for the morning session, you’ll kick off your experience with a visit to Sant’Ambrogio Market, one of Florence’s oldest and most authentic food markets. Here, locals have shopped for generations, so the atmosphere buzzes with genuine tradition. Vendors sell seasonal produce, cured meats, aromatic herbs, and cheeses—perfect for understanding Tuscan ingredients. Guests have noted how the market’s vibrant stalls and friendly vendors add a personal touch to the experience, making it more than just a shopping trip but a cultural introduction.

Cooking with a Local Chef

The chef, a native Florentine, opens their kitchen door to teach you how to cook the perfect Fiorentina steak—a highlight for many. The approach is practical, with clear guidance on seasoning, grilling, and resting the meat. The authentic cut of Chianina beef, usually around one kilogram per steak, is cooked on the grill to a tender rare, seasoned simply with salt and extra virgin olive oil, allowing the meat’s natural flavors to shine.

Guests report being impressed with how the chef “literally cuddles” the steak on the grill—an affectionate touch that highlights the care put into each step. You’ll learn how to control the heat, time the grilling, and rest the steak, ensuring it’s cooked to absolute perfection.

Preparing Appetizers and Sides

While the steak rests, the group makes bruschettas, a simple yet flavorful appetizer. The chef teaches proper toasting, toppings, and seasoning, which are straightforward but crucial for an authentic taste. The fire remains active, so there’s an opportunity to grill vegetables, adding smoky depth to the meal.

Baking the Cantucci (Tuscan Almond Cookies)

No Tuscan dinner is complete without Cantucci, the beloved almond biscuits. Under the chef’s watchful eye, you’ll learn the technique to make crispy, flavorful biscuits, perfect for dipping in Vinsanto, the traditional sweet dessert wine. Guests have shared how the cookies turn out “deliciously crunchy” and how pairing them with Vinsanto really elevates the experience.

The Meal and Drinks

Once everything is cooked, the table is set for your three-course meal: bruschettas, Fiorentina steak with sides, and the cantucci for dessert. The unlimited wine pours generously, with guests praising the selection of local reds that complement the dishes beautifully.

The atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, learn tips, and toast with new friends. Guests have said, “The wine flows freely, and the chef’s stories make the experience fun and engaging.” The meal is designed to be both educational and satisfying, leaving you with new skills and a full belly.

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Why You Should Consider This Tour

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Authenticity and Local Expertise

The fact that your chef is a Florentine born and raised in Sant’Ambrogio guarantees authentic insights into local food traditions. Unlike generic classes, this experience offers a true taste of Florence’s culinary roots.

Practical Skills You Can Use at Home

This isn’t just about tasting; it’s about learning techniques you’ll remember. From grilling the Fiorentina steak to baking perfect cantucci, you’ll walk away with skills you can replicate at home—ideal for impressing friends or elevating your backyard barbecues.

Value for Money

For the price, you’re getting a comprehensive experience: a market visit (if morning), a professional cooking lesson, a three-course meal, and unlimited wine. Many guests note that the quality of instruction and the intimate setting make it worthwhile, especially since you leave with new recipes and confidence.

An Intimate, Friendly Atmosphere

The small group size fosters camaraderie and personalized attention. Guests frequently comment on the relaxed, fun environment where questions are encouraged, and everyone feels involved.

Potential Drawbacks

The duration—around 3-4 hours—can be a lot if you’re pressed for time or prefer shorter activities. Also, the focus is on meat-centric dishes; vegetarians and vegans might find it less suitable, though the experience isn’t tailored to dietary restrictions. Lastly, children under six are discouraged for safety reasons, so it’s best for families with older kids.

Final Words: Who Is It Perfect For?

If you love cooking and wine and are eager to learn authentic Tuscan techniques in Florence’s lively ambiance, this class is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go beyond sightseeing and truly connect with local food culture. The experience offers a balanced mix of hands-on participation, culture, and delicious eating, making it ideal for foodies, aspiring chefs, or anyone looking to deepen their culinary knowledge.

Those seeking a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with a small group will feel comfortable and engaged throughout. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, you’ll leave with the confidence to impress at your next dinner party or backyard BBQ.

In summary, this tour provides great value with an authentic local touch, memorable food, and unlimited Tuscan wine—an absolute must for food lovers visiting Florence.

FAQ

Is the market visit included in all tours?
No, the Sant’Ambrogio Market visit is only part of the morning sessions, not available on afternoon options or during Sundays and bank holidays.

How long does the class last?
The experience generally lasts between 3 to 4 hours, depending on the schedule.

Are drinks included?
Yes, unlimited wine is included throughout the meal, and a glass of Vinsanto paired with cantucci is also part of the experience.

Is it suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
No, this experience focuses on meat dishes, especially the Fiorentina steak. Vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten allergies are advised to look for alternative options.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be standing and moving around during the cooking process.

Can children join?
For safety reasons, children under 6 years old are not recommended.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

Is there a specific dress code?
No strict dress code, but casual, comfortable clothing is best for cooking.

What ingredients are used?
The class emphasizes authentic Tuscan ingredients, including Chianina beef, seasonal vegetables, and local baked goods.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This MaterSteak experience is a tasty combination of authentic Tuscan cuisine, expert guidance, and warm local atmosphere—perfect for those wanting a meaningful, delicious day in Florence.