When a steak is described as weighing 8 ounces (8oz) on a restaurant menu, it typically refers to the weight of the steak before it is cooked. The weight measurement is generally taken when the steak is in its raw or uncooked state. Cooking processes, such as grilling or broiling, can cause the steak to lose some moisture and weight due to evaporation, resulting in a slightly lighter cooked steak. However, the menu description usually refers to the pre-cooked weight to provide consistency and a standard reference point for customers.