Italian Cooking Schools

Many people attend Italian cooking schools not only in the hopes of getting a good food industry job, but also because they simply want to learn the techniques and secrets of this exciting cuisine. Though most culinary schools cover Italian cooking, many people want to specialize in this area, and fortunately there are schools that will cater to them. Obviously, many of them are in Italy, but there are respectable Italian cooking schools in other parts of the world as well. Here are some memorable Italian cooking schools, both in the country of origin and elsewhere.

Apicius - Located in the beautiful Tuscany, Florence region, Apicius is a school that has earned much acclaim. Along with business, general arts and applied science courses, this school offers courses in general Italian cooking, Italian pastry cooking and wine studies. There are also Associate, Bachelor and Master Degree programs through the school. A travel program for students is offered, as well as specialized day classes in specific areas of cooking. Course fees vary, and can go as high as €65,720 for an 8-semester professional program.

Mami Camilla - If you want to learn about the wonderful foods and flavors of real Italy, the best way is to get right in there with the real people. Mami Camilla is a combination bed and breakfast and cooking school that is a delight to students and visitors alike. Located in the south of Italy, this quaint but serious school teaches not only how to cook Italian cuisine, but how to prepare whole meals in the Italian tradition. Not for those who are looking for degrees, this school is for the priceless experience. There are, however, graduated courses that can lead to internship in one of their food or hospitality establishments. Fees start at €48 for a one-day class to €1790 for a 4-week class.

The Italian Culinary Academy, New York - This acclaimed school is located in the heart of New York City and is an affiliate school to one in Parma, Italy. Chefs come from all over the country, and even from Italy, to teach intensive courses to dedicated students of Italian cuisine. Learning is hands-on, and almost always involves eventual internships at top Italian restaurants in the United States or even Italy. The most popular course that this Italian cooking school offers is called the “Italian Culinary Experience”. It includes instruction not only in all manner of Italian cuisine, including pastry, but also instruction in the Italian language and culture. Half of this course is held in New York, the other half in the Parma, Italy school. The fee for this 6-month course is just under $40,000. A shorter but still all-inclusive course is held only in the New York school. This course is called “Essentials of Italian Cooking”, lasts about 4 weeks, and costs $2775.

Chefs who know how to cook authentic Italian cuisine are always in demand, and Italian cooking schools help culinary students add an important section to their resumes. Some of the schools, such as The Italian Culinary Academy in New York offer financial aid for students in need.