Culinary school opens doors to a wide range of careers in cooking, restaurant management and more. The industry is filled with many different pathways to success, and it’s important for students to consider their career goals before choosing a school. The best culinary schools have programs that cover everything from fundamental cooking skills to advanced techniques, hospitality management and food innovation and technology. They also offer specialized tracks for students to dive deep into their areas of interest, making them stand out in the job market.
For those who are still deciding whether culinary school is worth the investment, here are some tips to help find the right fit. Start by researching the different programs offered at each school. Look for institutions that have a broad curriculum, as well as specialized track options like pastry arts or international cuisine. Also, consider the type of internships and hands-on learning opportunities available at each program. These opportunities allow you to put your classroom knowledge into practice and hone your culinary skills under professional supervision.
It’s also a good idea to research the qualifications of each school’s instructors and faculty. The most reputable culinary schools employ seasoned chefs and industry professionals who have years of experience teaching and mentoring. Moreover, look for schools that offer state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. This will give you an edge in the kitchen, and also improve your learning experience.
If you’re a fan of cooking shows, you may want to check out the credentials of the hosts as well. For example, the acclaimed television chef Anthony Bourdain is the host of the hit series Top Chef, which has spawned several spin-offs and propelled the careers of many successful competitors. Bourdain’s show is unique in that he avoids upscale restaurants and instead dines at grilled fish stands, roadside food trucks and dumpling-making households, which gives viewers an unfiltered glimpse of local culture.
Lastly, it’s always worth checking out the culinary blogs and publications of the school you’re interested in. These sites are often updated frequently and provide an insider’s view into what it’s really like to be a student at the school in question. Some popular culinary blogs include The Spruce Eats, Saveur and Food & Wine.
In addition to these blogs, it’s also worth looking at local culinary magazines. These magazines often feature a mix of recipes and restaurant reviews. For instance, New York City’s The New York Times is the gold standard when it comes to restaurant reviews. Paul Adams is the go-to critic for the paper, but you’ll also find a wealth of information in their other sections, including wine, beer and travel pieces.