The 7 Best Culinary Schools in New York

New York City, a vibrant hub of gastronomy, offers a plethora of opportunities for aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts. With its rich tapestry of cultures and cuisines, the city is home to some of the most prestigious culinary schools in the world. This guide explores the 7 best culinary schools in New York, providing insights into what makes each institution unique and what you should consider when choosing the right school for your culinary journey.

When selecting a culinary school, there are several aspects to consider:

Accreditation: Ensure the school is recognized by relevant educational authorities.
Programs Offered: Look for a variety of courses, from pastry arts to international cuisine.
Experienced Faculty: Learn from seasoned chefs and industry professionals.
Hands-on Experience: Opportunities for internships and practical training in real-world environments.
Facilities: State-of-the-art kitchens and equipment for an optimal learning experience.
Job Placement Assistance: Support in finding employment after graduation.
Cost: Tuition can vary widely, so consider your budget and available financial aid.
Location: Proximity to home and the culinary scene in New York City.

Each of these factors plays a crucial role in shaping your education and career path in the culinary arts. Discover which schools stand out in these areas and more as you dive into our comprehensive guide.

1. Cozymeal
2. Sur La Table
3. Institute of Culinary Education

4. Abigail's Kitchen
5. Red Inside
6. Home Cooking New York
7. International Culinary Center

Number of companies

1226

Verified reviews

4,47

Average rating

(917)9795661

1. Cozymeal

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,8/5

136 Madison Ave, 10016.0, New York

Culinary school
Cooking class
Cooking school
Event management company
Event planner
Tour operator

Why we chose them

Cozymeal Cooking Classes NYC offers a diverse and engaging culinary experience in the heart of New York City. Renowned for their hands-on cooking classes, they provide opportunities to learn from esteemed local chefs, specializing in both regional and global cuisines. Whether you’re a beginner or a gourmet enthusiast, their classes are tailored to fit all skill levels and dietary preferences. From Italian pasta making to Japanese sushi crafting, participants can explore a wide array of culinary traditions. Additionally, their services extend beyond cooking classes to include event management and planning, making them a versatile choice for both personal and corporate events.

Known for their flexible booking options, Cozymeal Cooking Classes NYC offers in-person and online experiences, ensuring accessibility and convenience for all. Their team-building activities and private chef services foster a sense of community and collaboration, perfect for corporate gatherings or intimate celebrations. With a commitment to culinary excellence, they aim to transform kitchens into premier dining destinations, making cooking a delightful and educational journey. The company also offers food tours and online experiences, further enriching the culinary adventure for their diverse clientele.

(212)5748334

2. Sur La Table

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 3,6/5

306 W 57th St, 10019.0, New York

Culinary school
Baking supply store
Cooking class
Kitchen supply store
Cutlery store

Why we chose them

Sur La Table is renowned for its high-end cookware and tabletop items, making it a treasured destination for culinary enthusiasts. Established in 1972 at Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, the company has expanded its mission to create joy through cooking and sharing delicious food. Offering a wide array of services, including a culinary school, cooking classes, and specialized kitchen supply stores, it caters to cooks of all skill levels. Their immersive cooking classes provide hands-on experiences guided by expert instructors, allowing participants to explore new techniques and savor their culinary creations.

The New York location embodies the company’s commitment to quality and expertise, with services like knife sharpening and personalized interactions with resident chefs through the “Ask the Chef” feature. Customers can enjoy the convenience of in-store pickup and explore top kitchen brands such as Scanpan, All-Clad, Le Creuset, and more. With private events designed for celebrations and gatherings, Sur La Table invites everyone to “Make More, Gather Often,” turning every cooking experience into a delightful adventure.

(212)8470700

3. Institute of Culinary Education

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

225 Liberty St Third Floor, 10281.0, New York

Culinary school

Why we chose them

The Institute of Culinary Education stands as a beacon of excellence in culinary and hospitality education, recognized as the top culinary school in America by esteemed organizations such as the James Beard Foundation and USA Today. With over 45 years of experience, ICE has cultivated a reputation for launching successful culinary careers. Its state-of-the-art 74,000-square-foot facility in New York’s vibrant Brookfield Place fosters an environment of creativity and innovation. This prestigious institution offers a diverse range of programs, including Culinary Arts, Plant-Based Culinary Arts, Pastry & Baking Arts, and Restaurant & Culinary Management, equipping students with the essential skills and techniques needed to excel in the culinary industry.

ICE’s commitment to culinary excellence is reflected in its expansive curriculum and the success of its 18,000 alumni, many of whom have become leaders in top kitchens globally. The school provides both foundational and continuing education opportunities, including intensive sommelier training and specialized classes in artisan bread baking and cake decorating. Notable chefs, such as Daniel Humm and Tom Colicchio, commend ICE for consistently producing skilled and passionate professionals ready to take on the challenges of the culinary world. By integrating practical experience with academic rigor, ICE continues to shape the future of culinary innovation and remains a vital resource for aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts alike.

(212)6738184

4. Abigail's Kitchen

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

193 Henry St, 10002.0, New York

Culinary school
Bar
Event venue

Why we chose them

Abigail’s Kitchen is a culinary gem located in the vibrant Lower East Side of New York City. Known for its unique blend of Franco-American fare, this small bistro offers a variety of experiences that cater to food enthusiasts. The venue, transformed from the beloved Camaje by Chef-owner Abigail Hitchcock, focuses on bringing people together through cooking and dining. A standout feature is their Dinners in the Dark, a four-course meal enjoyed blindfolded, which enhances diners’ senses of taste, smell, and touch. This immersive dining experience is exclusive to their location, making it a must-visit for adventurous food lovers.

Beyond dining, Abigail’s Kitchen serves as a culinary school, offering Hands-On Cooking Classes in a fully operational restaurant kitchen. With a diverse menu covering cuisines from around the world, participants can explore culinary arts in a practical, engaging setting. The space is also available as an event venue, ideal for private gatherings, cooking classes, and unique dining experiences. With a capacity of 24 for sit-down events and 35 for standing receptions, it provides a cozy yet dynamic atmosphere for any occasion. These features highlight why this establishment is a standout choice for our directory.

(917)2672128

5. Red Inside

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

109 MacDougal St #2, 10012.0, New York

Culinary school

Why we chose them

Red Inside offers an immersive culinary experience that combines learning and enjoyment in a state-of-the-art kitchen studio. Their hands-on cooking classes are designed to accommodate all skill levels, providing participants with valuable life skills, from cooking techniques to knife skills. The warm and inviting environment encourages creativity and socialization, making it an ideal setting for amateur cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s a one-on-one lesson or a group session, each participant leaves with a deeper understanding of food and the confidence to recreate dishes at home.

In addition to cooking classes, Red Inside provides a range of services including private dining, catering, and consulting. Their culinary studios, located in Greenwich Village and Little Italy, offer tailored private dining experiences with exclusive chef-prepared menus. These venues are perfect for intimate family gatherings, corporate events, or large parties, ensuring a memorable and personalized dining experience. Their catering services boast exquisite displays and impeccable service, transforming any event into an unforgettable occasion. By blending food and fun, they inspire everyone to explore the joys of cooking.

(917)8036857

6. Home Cooking New York

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,8/5

158 Grand St, 10013.0, New York

Culinary school
Cooking school
Cooking class
Summer camp

Why we chose them

Home Cooking New York stands out as a versatile culinary school offering a wide array of cooking classes tailored to all skill levels. Known for its motto, “A cooking school for everyone,” it provides a rich variety of in-person and online classes, ensuring accessibility for culinary enthusiasts everywhere. Whether it’s a culinary boot camp, virtual class, or a “Raise Your Food IQ” seminar, participants can find a class that suits their interests. The school also hosts private events, corporate gatherings, and cooking parties with friends, enhancing its appeal as a destination for both learning and celebration.

The school’s offerings extend to specialized programs like summer camps, afterschool cooking clubs, and kids and teens cooking classes, making it an ideal choice for young aspiring chefs. The experienced chef-instructors, who are highlighted on their website, bring their expertise to each session, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. With options for private classes in your home and virtual events complete with ingredient kits, the school’s flexible approach caters to diverse needs and preferences. This dynamic and inclusive approach to culinary education is why we chose to feature this company in our directory.

(888)3242433

7. International Culinary Center

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

225 Liberty St, New York

Culinary school

Why we chose them

International Culinary Center has carved a remarkable legacy in the culinary world through its innovative approach to education. Originally known as The French Culinary Institute, the school merged with the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) to continue its tradition of excellence. Now operating under ICE, the institution offers a comprehensive curriculum at its New York and Los Angeles campuses, as well as online programs. This dynamic blend of in-person and online learning ensures that students around the globe can access its world-class training. The school is renowned for producing industry leaders, thanks to its fast-paced programs and distinguished faculty.

The mission of the culinary school is to empower the next generation of chefs and culinary innovators with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed globally. Students can graduate in months, not years, and benefit from the institution’s strong network and career services. The legacy of the original French Culinary Institute lives on at ICE, providing aspiring chefs with the tools to launch successful culinary careers. By choosing this esteemed institution for our directory, we highlight its pivotal role in shaping culinary leaders and its continued influence in the industry.

FAQs

What types of programs are typically offered by culinary schools in New York?

Culinary schools in New York often offer a variety of programs, including culinary arts, pastry and baking arts, international cuisine, and hospitality management. Some schools also provide short-term courses and workshops for specific skills.

How much does it cost to attend a culinary school in New York?

Tuition for culinary schools in New York can vary widely. On average, you can expect to pay between €15,000 and €40,000 per year, depending on the program and institution. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to help offset costs.

How long does it typically take to complete a culinary program in New York?

The duration of culinary programs can vary. Certificate programs may take as little as a few months, while associate degrees typically require two years, and bachelor's degrees may take up to four years to complete.

What should I consider when choosing a culinary school in New York?

Consider factors such as accreditation, the variety of programs offered, experienced faculty, hands-on training opportunities, facilities, job placement assistance, cost, and the school's location within New York City.

Do culinary schools in New York offer job placement assistance after graduation?

Yes, many culinary schools in New York offer job placement assistance. They often have career services departments that help students find internships and employment opportunities in the culinary industry after graduation.

What kind of hands-on experience can I expect from a culinary school in New York?

Culinary schools in New York typically offer hands-on experience through kitchen labs, internships, and real-world training opportunities in restaurants and hotels. This practical training is crucial for gaining industry-relevant skills.

How can I find out if a culinary school in New York is accredited?

You can verify accreditation by checking with recognized accrediting bodies, such as the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission (ACFEFAC). Additionally, schools often list their accreditation status on their websites.

Are there part-time or evening classes available at culinary schools in New York?

Yes, many culinary schools in New York offer flexible scheduling options, including part-time and evening classes, to accommodate students who may be working or have other commitments.