14 Best Culinary Schools in the World in 2025

Chances are if you're researching the best culinary schools in the world, you already have a passion for the culinary arts. Whether you want to start something new or further your career, choosing the right school is crucial. 

The best culinary schools in the world have a lot to offer students in terms of education and future prospects. However, since culinary school is a massive investment of both money and time, you want to ensure you're choosing the right one for you.

The first step in choosing the best school for you is to consider your career goals and think about what you’re aiming to get out of a culinary education. Many of the best culinary schools in the world offer a variety of programs, from generalized cooking to more specialized fields. 

Deciding on a career path will help set you on the right track for finding the education you desire. Read on to discover the best culinary schools in the world,  including what each school offers and how they can benefit you.

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• The 14 Best Culinary Schools in the World
• What to Look for in a Culinary School
• What are the Best Culinary Schools in the World?

The 14 Best Culinary Schools in the World

1. Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, U.S.

Paying homage to the legacy of the French Chef Auguste Escoffier, the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts is a prestigious institution with deep roots in the tradition of classical French cuisine. Auguste Escoffier was known as the “King of chefs” and left a lasting impression on the industry. 

Considered to be one of the best, if not the best culinary schools in the world, the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts provides students with the skills, knowledge and confidence necessary to thrive in the industry.

Why It’s Recommended 

Not only does The Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts specialize in general culinary arts but it also offers specialized courses in pastry and baking as well as culinary management and sustainable farming, with a heavy focus on farm-to-table practices.

Adding to the list of reasons why it is one of the best culinary schools in the world, the school has online options, making it even more accessible for budding chefs.

It was ranked the best culinary school in the USA by Chef’s Pencil in 2022 and is the largest culinary school brand in the country. The school also received a Newsweek 5-Star Award as one of America’s Top Online Learning Schools in 2025, among many other accolades. 

Location: Multiple locations in Austin, TX, Boulder, CO and online

2. Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland

Known for its comprehensive programs and world-class instructors, the Culinary Arts Academy Switzerland is an esteemed institution highly regarded as one of the best culinary schools in the world. 

The academy emphasizes hands-on learning and practical training in state-of-the-art facilities. With only 250 students enrolled per term, it’s one of the hardest schools to get into and carries an exceptional reputation with industry partners and alumni. 

Why It’s Recommended

As one of the best culinary arts schools in the world, it’s no surprise there are multiple programs to choose from. This school offers bachelor, master and diploma programs in both culinary and pastry arts as well as a Swiss certificate in vegetarian arts. While the focus is primarily on cooking, students learn a range of other skills like practical business theory and hospitality management.

Location: Multiple locations in Le Bouveret and Brig, Switzerland

3. Culinary Institute of America, U.S.

What started as a dream back in 1946, was brought to life by Frances Roth (with the help of co-founder Katharine Angell) to eventually become the Culinary Institute of America. Originally established as the New Haven Restaurant Institute in New Haven, CT, this school was created to train returning World War II veterans in the culinary arts. 

Despite starting with only 50 students, the Culinary Institute of America now has more than 50,000 successful alumni and is considered to be one of the best culinary schools in the world. 

Why It’s Recommended

You’ll find a range of programs to choose from, including culinary arts, baking and pastry arts, culinary science and hospitality management. These programs also offer concentrations and travel experiences that many other schools don’t offer, making it a top contender among the best culinary schools in the world. 

Location: Multiple locations in New York, California, Texas, Singapore and online

4. Le Cordon Bleu, France

The name of this renowned institution was first used by King Henry III when symbolizing the “L’Ordre du Saint-Esprit” with a blue ribbon or un cordon bleu. As a culinary arts school, Le Cordon Bleu was founded in 1895 in Paris by Marthe Distel, publisher and journalist of La Cuisinière Cordon Bleu. 

Today, Le Cordon Bleu spans 20 countries with 35 international schools and is regularly considered one of the best culinary schools in the world. Students have the privilege of learning from esteemed master chefs, many of whom have Michelin star backgrounds. 

Why It’s Recommended

With such a massive presence, Le Cordon Bleu is the largest and arguably the best culinary school in the world. While its specialty has always been French cuisine, the extensive program list covers so much more, including pastry and confectionery, bakery and bread, culinary and hospitality management and wine and beverages, among many other specialties. 

Location: Multiple locations across the globe

5. Institute of Culinary Education, U.S.

The history of the Institute of Culinary Education dates back to 1975 when Peter Kump’s New York Cooking School began with just five students in his Upper West Side apartment in New York City. 

His vision was to teach not only recipes but also techniques that help students reach their highest potential. This philosophy still stands today and instilled commitment is reflected in the achievements of more than 18,000 alumni who have graduated.

Why It’s Recommended

The Institute of Culinary Education offers programs comparable to those at other institutions on this list of the best culinary arts schools in the world. However, many of these courses can be completed in under a year, providing students with more value in less time. 

Classes are also kept small and intimate, with plenty of support for individualized learning. A work placement is part of many of the programs offered as well, providing students with real-world experience, strong culinary industry references and even job opportunities after graduation.   

Location: Multiple locations in New York, Los Angeles and online

6. Apicius International School of Hospitality, Italy

In 1997, Apicius International School of Hospitality became Italy's first school of hospitality. It covers all aspects of culinary arts and hospitality management and even features a spa wellness learning lab among other unique learning opportunities. 

What makes it one of the best culinary schools in the world is not just its focus on cuisine but the broader focus on people, culture and growing students into dynamic and proactive members of the community.   

Why It’s Recommended

Besides the opportunity to study in the beautiful city of Florence at one of the best culinary schools in the world, you have plenty of programs and specializations to choose from. The four schools within the institution include the School of Food and Wine Studies, the School of Hospitality, the School of Sports and Health Sciences and the School of Graduate Studies.

Location: Florence, Italy

7. Capital City College, London

Following a major rebrand, the former Westminster Kingsway College and other colleges now operate under the unified name of Capital City College. The new identity connects a diverse community across multiple London campuses while offering a wide range of programs for all ages. 

Recognized as one of the best culinary arts schools in the world, Capital City College stands out for its great selection of culinary programs, with everything from vocational courses for adults to academies for young chefs and young bakers. 

Why It’s Recommended

A variety of hospitality and culinary courses are offered at different levels and lengths, giving students plenty of options to further their careers at their own pace. The school also holds a great reputation for being inclusive and supportive of all student's learning needs.

Location: London, U.K.

8. Kendall College, U.S.

Highly acclaimed as one of the best culinary schools in the world, Kendall College, part of National Louis University, offers world-class programs in culinary arts and hospitality management. 

Equipped with commercial-grade kitchens and state-of-the-art technology, this college prepares students for a smooth transition into the real world. Students also gain real-world experience thanks to the student-run restaurant and café. 

Famous alumni coming from Kendall College include Beverly Kim, a contestant on Top Chef in 2011 who co-owns a Michelin star restaurant in Chicago among many other significant accomplishments.

Why It’s Recommended

Every program at Kendall College and National Louis University is highly accredited, solidifying its reputation as one of the best culinary schools in the world. The various degrees offered in culinary arts, baking and pastry, and hospitality management hold great value, especially with future employers. 

Location: Chicago, IL, U.S.

9. Culinary Institute of Barcelona, Spain

Any culinary school can teach you how to cook but the Culinary Institute of Barcelona does much more than that. As one of the best culinary schools in the world, a lot of emphasis is put on individuality, pushing students to think outside the box and explore their creativity. 

The school also offers the opportunity to learn from some of the best instructors and allows students to step outside of their comfort zone and discover new possibilities and endless growth opportunities. 

Why It’s Recommended

A selection of programs for all levels and varying specialties, including combined programs, means you can design an education and career that works for you. Culinary arts, pastry and baking, plus management programs are all covered. 

You’ll also find a welcoming community of alumni known as CIBers, many of whom have opened successful businesses in the industry, solidifying the institute’s status as one of the best culinary schools in the world. 

Location: Barcelona, Spain

10. Johnson & Wales University, U.S.

The best way to learn something is by doing it and that’s the exact hands-on approach Johnson & Wales University focuses on. Experiential learning is a key component of the education and growth of individuals, making it one of the best culinary schools in the world for practical learning.

The university also fosters a strong sense of community, bringing first-year students together through two core courses to build connections and create a welcoming environment.

Why It’s Recommended

You’ll have access to a range of popular programs, including culinary arts and baking and pastry arts. You can also dive into a different specialty, such as food innovation and technology or clinical nutrition and dietetics. The four-year bachelor programs have been condensed into three years, so you can save money and begin your career faster at one of the best culinary schools in the world. 

Location: Providence, RI, U.S.

11. Hattori Nutrition College, Japan

If you’re studying abroad, one of the best culinary schools in the world to study at is Hattori Nutrition College. Founded in 1939 by Chef Yukio Hattori, this school became the first culinary and nutrition institution in Japan. 

The statement “food for the benefit of the people” is something the Hattori Nutrition College feels strongly about, teaching students that food is a way to cultivate mind and body. Make sure you are fluent in Japanese before committing to this school, as all the school programs are only offered in Japanese.

Why It’s Recommended

Available programs include culinary arts, nutrition, culinary pâtisserie and Japanese cuisine. The traditions and techniques taught at Hattori Nutrition College encompass and embrace the culture of Japan, giving students an authentic taste of the country while studying abroad at one of the best culinary schools in the world.

Location: Tokyo, Japan

12. Gastronomicon, France

Considered to be one of the best culinary schools in the world, Gastronomicon was founded in the early 2000s by Martine Lessault. Her passion for working in the hospitality and culinary industry led her to create a highly recognized institution in France. 

With modernization in mind, the school moved to a new campus with state-of-the-art facilities in 2014. Classes are kept small and intimate for the benefit of students learning and a direct hands-on approach is taken throughout the programs. There’s also a reserved classroom for learning French.

Why It’s Recommended

Both the culinary and pastry programs are offered at different levels and lengths, with the shortest program only being two months and the longest being one year. This means students can be out in the workforce sooner. The longer programs also include extensive internships at hand-picked restaurants from the French Michelin Guide. 

Location: Agde, France

13. Business & Hotel Management School, Switzerland

Don’t let the name fool you, the Business & Hotel Management School (BHMS) is a lot more than just business, it’s also one of the best culinary schools in the world. It was established in 1998 and has been providing a five-star education to students ever since. With plenty of hands-on learning and established internships, students are set up for success.  

Why It’s Recommended

Along with various degrees in culinary arts, BHMS also offers a Swiss diploma in pastry, chocolate and bakery. Each program is highly accredited and taught in top-quality facilities, ensuring students are ready and able to take on the fast-paced industry ahead.

Location: Lucerne, Switzerland

14. Keiser University, U.S.

Dr. Arthur Keiser and Evelyn Keiser originally founded the Keiser School in 1977 to teach healthcare and business. Through the decades, more programs were added and in 2006 Keiser University got its current name. The school is committed to a “student first” approach offering accommodations like scheduling options, smaller class sizes and one-on-one learning. 

Its culinary program stands out for providing hands-on training in state-of-the-art kitchens, equipping students with the practical skills and industry knowledge needed for successful careers in the culinary arts.

Why It’s Recommended

Both culinary arts and baking and pastry arts programs are offered with comprehensive curriculums and include an externship to prepare upcoming graduates for entry-level careers. The heavy focus on putting students first also provides a healthy and encouraging learning environment where students can thrive.

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL, U.S.

What to Look for in a Culinary School

1. Accreditation

When it comes to choosing the best culinary school in the world, accreditation should be one of the first things to consider. Accreditation is typically granted by bodies such as the American Culinary Foundation in the United States or international equivalents like the World Association of Chef’s Societies. These organizations evaluate schools based on various criteria, including curriculum quality, faculty qualifications and student outcomes. 

Attending an accredited culinary school can significantly increase your chances of employment after graduation. Employers often prefer candidates from accredited programs and schools as the institutions themselves are recognized for delivering a higher standard of education. The best culinary schools in the world will have all the necessary accreditation and maybe even extra accolades.

2. Reputation and Alumni Network

Attending a culinary school with a great reputation is crucial for aspiring chefs. The best culinary schools in the world have strong reputations and have built extensive relationships with industry leaders, which translates into valuable networking opportunities. A well-regarded program may even be affiliated with renowned chefs or prestigious restaurants that can help culinary students have a leg up against the competition. 

A robust alumni network can also be a game-changer for potential students. Alumni who have successfully navigated their culinary careers can provide mentorship, job referrals and insights into industry trends. Employers who share the same alumni network might also be more inclined to hire that individual as they share a common community.

3. Curriculum and Specializations

A program without a steady curriculum is nothing. The best culinary schools in the world offer a well-rounded program that covers everything from fundamental cooking techniques to food safety, nutrition and hospitality management skills. 

What often sets these schools apart, however, is their range of specializations. Institutions that provide focused tracks, such as pastry arts, international cuisine and vegan cooking, cater to the different interests and career aspirations of students. 

Specializations also allow students to dive deeper into specific areas of culinary arts, making them stand out among the competition in the job market. The best culinary schools in the world are the ones that use this tailored approach to ensure graduates are not only proficient with general cooking skills but also possess specialized knowledge that can help them succeed in niche markets. 

4. Facilities and Equipment

State-of-the-art facilities and equipment play a critical role in a culinary school’s success. The quality of kitchens, tools and technology directly impacts a student’s experiences and how they learn to cook like a chef.

The best culinary schools in the world are those that invest in the latest culinary technology such as sous-vide machines, blast chillers and advanced cooking equipment to prepare students for the realities of modern kitchens. 

Access to a well-equipped kitchen allows students to practice their skills in an environment that mirrors professional settings. When students are able to smoothly transition from a culinary school kitchen to a restaurant they demonstrate their readiness to face the fast-paced demands of the industry. 

What are the Best Culinary Schools in the World?

The big question every budding chef wants to know is: “What are the best culinary schools in the world?” However, the answer to that is not as simple because the best culinary school in the world depends on your own specific needs. The factors above can help you decide on what it is you are specifically looking for with an education in the culinary world. 

When diving into different specialties you might research specific schools, such as the best culinary schools in the world for baking or with a vegetarian emphasis, but many of the best culinary schools in the world already offer these specialties.

Institutions like Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, the Culinary Arts Academy, the Culinary Institute of America and Le Cordon Bleu are some of the most highly regarded and best culinary schools in the world. Their reputations speak volumes and the accreditation backs it up. 

These schools all offer a wide range of programs and specialties that either directly or indirectly relate to the culinary arts. While these are only the top four on the list, many of the other best culinary schools in the world are just as well-rounded and highly sought after.

If you’re searching for the best culinary schools in the world, choosing a well-rounded institution that offers many programs and specialties is a great place to start. 

Beyond the classes, the best culinary school in the world might depend on a number of factors. Location, class size, community and alumni networks, among other criteria, may influence your decision. 

While one culinary school might be perfect for one individual, it might not be the best for you. Remember to do plenty of research, talk to students, alumni and faculty, and maybe even plan a campus visit. The best culinary school in the world is ultimately the one that works best for you.

For even more ways to explore the culinary world, check out what’s happening on Cozymeal.