Those who don't learn proper cooking techniques are doomed to a life of licking pages from fancy food magazines. Cause a stir with this Groupon.

$59 for a 90-Minute Sushi-Making Class for Two ($120 Value)

During the Sushi 101 classes, Chef Drew Novack teaches up to eight students how to make traditional sushi rice, prepare fish, and craft neat, cylindrical rolls. Each session covers three different maki—such as spicy tuna, california, and vegetarian rolls—and allows attendees to take home leftovers and instructions afterward. Classes meet from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.

Samba Steak & Sushi House

The concept behind Samba Steak & Sushi House started to take shape in the early 20th century, when Japanese immigrants in Brazil and Peru began mixing local culinary influences with food from home. Simple, health-conscious Japanese cooking techniques mixed with spicier South American flavors, producing dishes seen in Samba's menu of wild-caught seafood, locally sourced produce, and organic sushi rice.

Hibachi chefs roast lobster tails, calamari, and sirloin steak on tabletop grills while diners watch this time-honored practice. In contrast, the sushi chefs incorporate more fusion elements by packing nontraditional ingredients into the specialty maki, such as coconut flakes, marinated red onions, and melted mozzarella cheese. The hibachi grills' occasional bursts of flame complement the high-ceilinged dining room's predominantly orange- and red-hued walls and the glowing eyes of the head chef. To keep this space full beyond mealtimes, the restaurant also hosts regular events, including DJ performances, karaoke nights, and sushi-making classes.