Elite Culinary Intensive

This intensive academy with the Culinary Institute of America is your all-access pass to the world’s premier culinary college. This isn't just a class; it’s an immersive exploration where you’ll go behind the scenes and work alongside elite CIA chefs in state of the art kitchens. You’ll get your hands dirty mastering "chef speak" and pro knife skills before creating your own masterpieces of iconic dishes from around the globe, from authentic Italian pastas, to French bistro classics and bold Asian street food. You'll learn alongside the professionals who helped shape modern culinary education, including The Professional Chef, the industry’s gold-standard textbook. In every kitchen lab, professionals deliver hands-on mentorship, real-world rigor, and a passion for excellence—teaching not just recipes, but the techniques, discipline, and mindset of the best in the business.

Each day on campus with CIA you'll spend half of the day getting your hands dirty in the kitchen, and half the day exploring the broader world of food and beverage with expert lectures and campus excursions. Dive deeper into hands-on learning about the science of taste and flavor, the rise of non-alcoholic beverages, and the future of food and food systems.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Talk the Talk: Get to know professional culinary terminology for kitchen equipment and advanced techniques.
2. Master the Basics: Practice pro-level skills, including mise en place, expert knife handling, and a range of cooking methods.
3. Cook Globally: Learn the fundamentals of Italian regional cuisine, explore the très chic world of the French bistro, and dive into the dynamic flavors of Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, and China.
4. Bake Like a Pro: Study the science and creativity of baking and pastry, ranging from artisanal bread to modern plated desserts.

Program Outcomes

The week will conclude with the CIA’s Toque Ceremony, marking your transition into the culinary profession. Surrounded by your peers and chef-instructors, you’ll be officially “toqued” and take a pledge upholding the standards of the world’s greatest kitchens. This time-honored tradition honors your hard work and welcomes you into a global legacy of culinary excellence, providing a memorable close to the week.