The Best Culinary Schools in America - 2023 Rankings (2024)

The Best Culinary Schools in America for 2023

The Culinary Institute of America, established in 1946, is a renowned institution setting the benchmark for professional culinary education. With campuses in New York, California, Texas, and Singapore, they offer diverse degree programs, certificates, and courses for culinary enthusiasts and experts. Their visionary approach acknowledges the profound cultural significance of food and its impact on health, the environment, and the economy. CIA’s mission revolves around providing top-notch education, practice, and scholarship in the realm of food, molding future leaders and experts in the food industry.

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts distinguishes itself through affordability, acclaimed chef instructors, a strong emphasis on the Farm to Table® experience, and a commitment to sustainability. Rooted in the foundation of French cooking and the timeless legacy of Auguste Escoffier, the King of Chefs, this culinary institution stands out among its peers. If you seek culinary excellence, Escoffier is the place to explore.

Founded in 1975, the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) is an renowned institution specializing in culinary and hospitality education. With campuses in New York City and Los Angeles, as well as an array of online training options, ICE offers a diverse range of programs, from diplomas to degrees and certificates. Situated in two culinary hubs, the institution provides students with opportunities to learn from industry thought leaders and launch their careers. ICE remains dedicated to guiding the next generation of culinary professionals towards culinary excellence.

The CULINARY INSTITUTE LENOTRE® (CIL), located in Houston, Texas, is a distinguished culinary institution committed to transforming the lives of aspiring chef-students. Established in 1998 by French chefs Alain and Marie Lenotre, the institute is renowned for its expertise in French cuisine and pastry arts. CULINARY INSTITUTE LENOTRE® offers a comprehensive culinary education, blending classic and contemporary culinary techniques and a broad spectrum of culinary topics. Students can choose from associate degree and diploma programs, each offering specialized electives such as restaurant management and pastry decoration.

Kendall College of Culinary Arts, strategically situated in the bustling hospitality hub of Chicago, stands as the premier choice for aspiring chefs, bakers, hotel managers, and tourism professionals. The college offers Chicago’s top-ranked culinary arts degree, emphasizing a well-rounded approach that combines classroom knowledge with hands-on culinary experience. This unique blend equips students with a profound understanding of the foodservice industry and a competitive edge in the job market.

Johnson & Wales University offers a Bachelor of Science program in Culinary Arts, designed to foster culinary excellence. Expert chef-instructors guide students through state-of-the-art labs, where they master the fundamentals of food preparation and explore specialized areas like garde manger, pastry, and beverage production. This comprehensive program not only hones culinary skills but also imparts essential knowledge in areas like financial management and leadership. Graduates are well-prepared to assume leadership roles in diverse culinary production environments worldwide.

Walnut Hill College, established in 1974 as The Restaurant School, is a pioneer in hospitality education. Located in the vibrant University City, Philadelphia, the college offers a unique blend of classroom teaching and hands-on training in its acclaimed restaurants. Students benefit from easy access to top internships and job opportunities within the bustling local hospitality scene. Beyond Philadelphia, they embark on tuition-paid global adventures, including tours of France and England and cruises in Florida & the Bahamas. Walnut Hill College prepares students for success in the dynamic world of hospitality.

Sullivan University’s College of Hospitality Studies offers an Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts that balances the art and science of cooking. Committed to producing highly sought-after culinary professionals, this program equips students for diverse culinary careers. With extensive kitchen lab training, real-world practic*ms, and externships, you’ll master culinary techniques and gain practical experience.

The Culinary Institute of New York (CINY), part of Monroe College, offers a dynamic culinary arts and hospitality management education. Located within a short distance of New York City, this program blends passion, professionalism, and pride. Established in 2009, CINY has a track record of award-winning culinary teams and acclaimed student-run restaurants, such as The Dining Lab. Students receive a comprehensive education with hands-on experience in culinary arts, pastry arts, and hospitality management. The program is recognized as a “training ground for students” by The Wall Street Journal and “the little kitchen that could” by The New York Times.

The Louisiana Culinary Institute, situated in Baton Rouge, is a dynamic for-profit college renowned for its two-year programs in Culinary Arts and Hospitality and Culinary Management. Notably, it gained recognition when featured on The Cooking Channel’s “The Freshman Class” in 2013. This institute boasts a cutting-edge 40,000 square foot facility equipped with spacious classrooms, demonstration labs, bakery facilities, and a fully equipped restaurant kitchen. This modern setup provides students with an excellent learning environment to develop their culinary skills.

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