Author: Coach Sumo | Founder & CEO of KnowYourMealsBlog.com
If you follow me on TikTok or have visited one of my food businesses you know that I am a self-taught chef, but if you’re passionate about cooking and want to turn your hobby into a profession, attending a culinary school is a great way to start your journey. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right school. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 15 culinary schools in the world to help you make an informed decision.
Le Cordon Bleu, Paris •
Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, France is one of the most prestigious culinary schools in the world. Founded in 1895, the school has produced many world-famous chefs, including Julia Child. Le Cordon Bleu offers a range of courses, from basic cooking techniques to advanced pastry and cuisine courses.
The Culinary Institute of America, New York •
The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in New York is another highly respected culinary school. Established in 1946, the school has a long history of producing successful chefs. CIA offers a variety of programs, including baking and pastry arts, culinary arts, and hospitality management.
Instituto Gastronómico Corbuse, Mexico City •
Instituto Gastronómico Corbuse in Mexico City is a top culinary school in Latin America. The school provides a range of programs, including basic and advanced culinary courses, bakery and pastry courses, and bartender courses.
At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy, Singapore •
At-Sunrice GlobalChef Academy in Singapore is Asia’s premier culinary academy. The school offers a range of programs, from basic culinary courses to advanced diploma programs in baking and pastry, culinary arts, and F&B entrepreneurship.
Johnson & Wales University, Rhode Island •
Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island is a private university that specializes in culinary arts, hospitality, and business education. The school has four campuses in the US, including Providence, North Miami, Denver, and Charlotte. JWU offers various programs in culinary arts, food service management, and baking and pastry arts.
Culinary Arts Academy, Switzerland •
Culinary Arts Academy in Switzerland is a leading culinary school that provides comprehensive training in hospitality, culinary arts, and pastry. The school offers programs in culinary arts, pastry and confectionery arts, hospitality and events, and food and beverage management.
École Lenôtre, France •
École Lenôtre in France is another top culinary school that provides a range of courses, from basic cooking techniques to advanced pastry and cuisine courses. The school has produced many world-renowned chefs, including Guy Savoy and Gaston Lenôtre.
George Brown College Chef School, Canada •
George Brown College Chef School in Canada is a renowned culinary school that offers various programs in culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, and food and beverage management. The school is well-known for its hands-on approach to learning and state-of-the-art facilities.
The International Culinary Center, New York •
The International Culinary Center (ICC) in New York is a leading culinary school that provides programs in culinary arts, pastry arts, and bread baking. The school has a faculty of world-renowned chefs, including Jacques Pépin and André Soltner.
Paul Bocuse Institute, France •
Paul Bocuse Institute in France is a culinary school named after the legendary French chef, Paul Bocuse. The school provides a range of courses, including basic and advanced culinary arts, pastry, and hospitality.
Kendall College School of Culinary Arts, Illinois •
Kendall College School of Culinary Arts in Illinois is a top culinary school that provides various programs in culinary arts, baking and pastry.
Institute of Culinary Education, New York •
The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York is a highly respected culinary school that offers various programs in culinary arts, baking and pastry, and hospitality. ICE has a faculty of experienced chefs and industry experts, including James Briscione and Michael Laiskonis.
Alain Ducasse Education, France •
Alain Ducasse Education in France is a leading culinary school that provides comprehensive training in culinary arts, pastry, and bakery. The school has campuses in Paris, Argenteuil, and Yssingeaux, and offers courses in French, English, and Spanish.
William Angliss Institute, Australia •
William Angliss Institute in Australia is a top culinary school that provides various programs in culinary arts, patisserie, and hospitality management. The school has state-of-the-art facilities and a faculty of experienced chefs and industry experts.
California Culinary Academy, San Francisco •
The California Culinary Academy in San Francisco is a renowned culinary school that offers various programs in culinary arts, pastry arts, and hospitality. The school has a faculty of experienced chefs and industry experts, including Chris Cosentino and Emily Luchetti.
Culinary Institute of Canada, Prince Edward Island •
The Culinary Institute of Canada in Prince Edward Island is a top culinary school that provides various programs in culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, and culinary operations. The school has a faculty of experienced chefs and industry experts and offers hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities.
Choosing the right culinary school is essential to kick-starting your culinary career. Whether you’re interested in pastry, cuisine, or hospitality management, the schools listed above provide world-class training and hands-on experience. I hope this list helps you make an informed decision and sets you on the path to a successful culinary career. Below, I have included some of the books that have helped me to become a memorable cook. I partner with brands worldwide and may receive a small commission if you make any purchases on my site.
Modernist Cuisine: The Art & Science of Cooking with Stainless Steel Slipcase 7th Edition
Modernist Cuisine at Home