Bharat SainiLast Updated on December 25, 2024 by Bharat Saini
The culinary industry in India is expanding rapidly, offering tremendous opportunities for aspiring chefs and culinary professionals. With the rising interest in diverse cuisines, both traditional and contemporary, India has become a hub for culinary arts education. The country offers numerous institutions where students can acquire skills ranging from classical Indian cooking to international cuisines, pastry arts, and hospitality management. Whether you’re passionate about creating artisanal confectionery or pursuing a career in the hospitality industry, there is an institution tailored for you.
Best Culinary Arts College in India: Highlights 2024
India’s culinary schools cater not only to the booming domestic food industry but also to global opportunities. Some of the best culinary arts colleges in India are internationally recognized and affiliated with global organizations like the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS). Graduating from one of these schools equips students with essential cooking techniques and provides exposure to industry experts, global cuisine trends, and specialized culinary training programs. Many culinary institutions offer integrated degree programs that combine tourism and hospitality, setting the foundation for diverse career paths.
Best Culinary Arts Colleges in India: India Today Ranking 2024
India Today annually ranks culinary colleges based on academic excellence, industry connections, placement records, and global exposure. Here are the top culinary arts colleges for 2024:
- Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Delhi
- Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad
- Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Goa
- International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi
- Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Chennai
Top 10 Culinary Arts Schools in India
Each institution offers unique culinary arts courses tailored to specific career goals, from becoming a professional chef to excelling in hospitality management. Here’s a detailed look at the top culinary schools in India:
1. Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Goa
IHM Goa, affiliated with Delhi University and recognized internationally, is considered one of the top culinary institutes in India. Located in Goa, a vibrant food tourism destination, the school provides an ideal setting for learning about coastal and international cuisines.
Courses Offered:
- Bachelor’s in Hospitality and Hotel Administration (BSc HHA)
- Diploma in Food Production
- Diploma in Food and Beverage Service
- Certificate in Pastry and Food Production Craftsmanship
Why Choose IHM Goa? The institute’s connection with the Ministry of Tourism offers insight into the tourism industry alongside culinary education. Its global reputation and prime location make it a preferred destination for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals.
2. Krystal School of Excellence, Kolkata
Krystal School of Excellence specializes in providing practical knowledge and global exposure. With over 24 international tie-ups, the school is highly regarded for its hospitality and culinary courses.
Courses Offered:
- Excellence in Culinary Arts & Patisserie
- Excellence in Aviation
- Excellence in Food & Beverage Management
- International Hotel Management & Tourism
- Excellence in Artisan Bakery
Key Highlights: Krystal’s world-class training kitchens, international internships, and industry-driven projects ensure students are well-prepared for global careers.
3. Culinary Academy of India (CIA), Hyderabad
Established as India’s first professional training school for culinary arts, CIA has a legacy of producing top chefs for the global market. Located near premier hotels in Hyderabad, the academy provides professional and certification courses with a strong focus on kitchen management and international cuisine.
Courses Offered:
- Bachelor’s in Catering Technology & Culinary Arts
- Post Graduate Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Costa Crociere Cruise Chef Course
- Specialization Courses for International Cruise Lines
Why CIA? The academy’s cruise chef programs and strong affiliations with global hospitality chains make it a top choice for students aiming for international careers.
4. Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Delhi
IHM Delhi is among the top culinary schools in India, known for attracting the brightest talent and providing exceptional learning opportunities. It blends traditional and contemporary culinary education with hospitality management.
Courses Offered:
- Master of Science in Hospitality and Hotel Administration (MSc HHA)
- Bachelor’s in Hospitality and Hotel Administration (BSc HHA)
- Diploma and Craftsmanship Courses in Culinary Arts
Key Benefits: With robust industry linkages, IHM Delhi offers internships, placements, and networking opportunities with top hospitality brands worldwide.
5. The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development
The Oberoi Centre offers unique management training programs for hospitality professionals. Graduates often secure senior management roles within the prestigious Oberoi Group.
Courses Offered:
- Kitchen Management Program
- Housekeeping Management Program
- Sales Management Program
Why The Oberoi Centre? The program’s competitive stipend, international training opportunities, and well-defined career growth paths make it a desirable choice for students interested in managerial roles.
6. International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi
Founded by Chef Virender S Datta, IICA is India’s first culinary institute accredited by the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS). It offers a range of programs for aspiring chefs and patisserie artists.
Courses Offered:
- Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Bakery and Patisserie
- Professional Patisserie & Confectionery Diploma
Key Features: With top-notch faculty and international partnerships, IICA provides students world-class exposure and networking opportunities with culinary experts.
7. Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Chennai
IHM Chennai has been a leader in hospitality education for over 50 years. It is renowned for producing skilled professionals in the culinary and hospitality sectors.
Courses Offered:
- Master’s in Hospitality Administration (M.Sc. HA)
- Bachelor’s in Hospitality & Hotel Administration (B.Sc. H&HA)
- Diploma in Food Production & Patisserie
- Craftsmanship Course in Food & Beverage Service
Why Choose IHM Chennai? The institute’s strong alumni network and connections with national and international hotels provide students with exceptional industry exposure.
8. JB Institute of Hospitality Management (JBIHM), Kolkata
JBIHM emphasizes practical culinary skills and management training to prepare students for versatile careers in the hospitality industry.
Courses Offered:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel Management
- Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality & Tourism Management
- Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts and Bakery
- Diploma in Food & Beverage Service
- Diploma in Front Office Management
Key Highlights: Specialized diploma programs and hands-on training make JBIHM ideal for students focusing on specific areas of hospitality.
9. St. Peter’s College, Kolkata
St. Peter’s College offers state-of-the-art training facilities, including a fully equipped computer lab, audio-visual lecture halls, and a well-stocked library.
Courses Offered:
- Master’s Degree Programs
- Professional Postgraduate Programs
- Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel Management
- Certificate Programs in Culinary Arts and Hospitality
Why St. Peter’s College? Its emphasis on technology-enhanced learning and international-standard curriculum prepares students for both domestic and global careers.
10. Hyderabad Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition
Founded in 1972 as the Food Craft Institute, this school has evolved into one of India’s top culinary and hospitality institutions.
Courses Offered:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality & Hotel Administration (B.Sc. H&HA)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accommodation Operation Management
- Craftsmanship Course in Food Production & Patisserie
- Craftsmanship Course in Food & Beverage Service
Why Choose This Institute? Its affiliation with the National Council for Hotel Management and Catering Technology (NCHMCT) ensures that students receive top-tier education and access numerous opportunities in the hospitality industry.
State-wise Best Culinary Arts Colleges in India
Top culinary schools are spread across various states, offering region-specific specializations. Some highlights include:
- Maharashtra: IHM Mumbai
- Tamil Nadu: IHM Chennai
- West Bengal: Krystal School of Excellence
- Telangana: Culinary Academy of India
Distance Culinary Arts Colleges in India
For students unable to attend on-campus programs, several institutions offer distance learning or hybrid models in culinary arts, such as:
- IGNOU Hospitality Courses
- Online Certification Programs in Culinary Arts by private academies
ROI of Best Culinary Arts Colleges in India
Culinary education is an investment. Institutions like IHM Delhi and CIA Hyderabad often boast high ROI due to excellent placement records and opportunities in global markets. Average starting salaries range from ₹3-₹8 LPA.
Highest Salary Offered by Best Culinary Arts Colleges in India
Premier institutes like The Oberoi Centre and IICA report the highest salaries for graduates, especially those entering international hospitality chains or cruise lines. Top graduates have secured packages of up to ₹15 LPA.
Low-cost Culinary Arts Colleges in India
Government-affiliated institutions like IHM Chennai and Hyderabad Institute of Hotel Management offer quality education at relatively lower costs, making culinary education accessible to a broader audience.
Specialisations Offered by Best Culinary Arts Colleges in India
Popular specializations include:
- Pastry and Bakery Arts
- International Cuisine
- Cruise Chef Training
- Food and Beverage Management
- Kitchen Management
Best Culinary Arts Colleges in India: Comparison
| College Name | Courses Offered | Highlights | Fees (Approx.) | Placement Avg. Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IHM Delhi | B.Sc. HHA, MSc HHA | Industry Linkages | ₹3-₹6 Lakh | ₹5-₹8 LPA |
| Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad | BCT&CA, Post Graduate Diploma in Culinary Arts | Cruise Chef Specialization | ₹5-₹7 Lakh | ₹6-₹10 LPA |
| IICA, New Delhi | Diploma in Culinary Arts, Patisserie | Accredited by WACS | ₹4-₹6 Lakh | ₹6-₹12 LPA |
Conclusion: Shaping Your Culinary Future in India
India’s top culinary arts schools provide a well-rounded education for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals. These institutions offer pathways into the ever-evolving culinary and hospitality industry, from foundational cooking techniques to specialized management courses. By choosing the right culinary school, you can refine your skills and gain access to international opportunities, ensuring a successful and rewarding career.
Whether your goal is to master artisanal bakery, work as a chef on a luxury cruise, or manage a world-class restaurant, India’s culinary schools have the expertise, infrastructure, and industry connections to make it happen. Start your culinary journey today by exploring these exceptional institutions!
