Stir

I went to Stir with my husband and father in law for Father's Day this year as a special treat. Overall, the service was good and the food tasty, but it fell short in a few ways. As many Yelp reviewers have noted, it is not a "class" so much as a chef's table experience. To be fair, I could have done more homework beforehand on what type of class or experience this was going to be. Chef James and the sommelier were congenial, as were the other diners at the table of 10. The theme was "Best of BBQ". The food was definitely tasty except the mac n' cheese which was flavorless and cold, but I was really disappointed that it was not more educational in nature. I expected Chef James would impart more knowledge about BBQ techniques, tips and tricks. The price tag was grossly out of wack with the items served, especially seeing as BBQ is all about transforming cheaper, less flavorful cuts of meat into savory delights. I appreciate paying for top notch service and quality food, but $145 per person for pulled pork, ribs, chicken breast and brisket just seems outrageous and I probably would not have booked this had I known it was not really a class and reviewed the menu beforehand. I thought part of what I was paying for was education from the chef. Not that I had room for it, but it was also odd that there wasn't dessert served. It would have been a nice touch if they gave us a special treat "to go" for each of the diners to enjoy later. Finally, while the table of 10 is a special experience, it can be awkward because you are eating in front of the chef who prepared it and you sort of feel forced by human nature to praise everything they put in front of you. Unfortunately, I don't think I will be going back anytime soon or enthusiastically recommending this experience, but I'm glad I checked it out and will definitely visit Chef Barbara's restaurants.

I went for a lovely afternoon here. They were sampling some things and having a huge cookbook sale. The space is small but seems perfect for intimate cooking lessons. My review is mainly for the incredible cookbook selection and they were even having a sale. Its such a well curated selection, the perfect place to come for your foodie friend. I got some great recommendations and have been pouring over the books ever since. I can't wait to sign up for a class!

Absolutely amazing. The food, the people the experience are all amazing. Seats only ten people so book early. Expensive but is money very well spent. Wine pairings are great and progress just as well as the menu does.

Truly a unique dining experience. Enjoy a delicious dinner with a small group of new friends and get a very informative lesson on cooking and food. Definitely repeatable as well since the dinner themes and lessons change with the seasons.

owners are very greedy and very judgmental ……. they are new and cannot take criticisms they have A LOt to learn

Want to have Top Chef winner, Kristen Kish teach you how to cook with nine of your friends? Stir is the place to be! Head over to their website to make a reservation and get hands-on experiences with the best beast over the stove!

Amazing experience! Both the Chef and the Sommelier were great! They were approachable, knowledgeable, responsive, resourceful and engaging all at once. We will be back!

Not only was the atmosphere competely unique, but I can't remember the last time I had a meal with more Wow moments!

Second time there...awesome food and a really fun experience!