The culinary industry can be extremely lucrative, especially for those who are able to distinguish themselves by pursuing the highest levels of professionalism and skill. For those who want to take their careers to the next level, earning a top culinary award like a Michelin Star or a James Beard Award could be a game changer. However, the path to achieving these awards is often difficult to navigate. Placement International can help chefs who are seeking to achieve this level of success by matching them with top culinary schools.
Sullivan University National Center for Hospitality Studies
Founded in 2002, the Sullivan University offers an associate degree program that takes just eighteen months to complete. The school is known for its small class sizes and expert faculty. Students have the opportunity to learn state-of-the-art techniques and gain real-world experience through on campus student-run dining establishments.
Metropolitan Community College
The Metropolitan Community College in Omaha, Nebraska offers a number of culinary programs that are accredited by the American Culinary Federation. Its culinary programs are highly competitive and include an emphasis on developing professional kitchen skills. The school is also recognized for its low tuition prices and unique opportunities like the three to ten week “Farm to Table” program, which takes students off campus to work with local farmers.
James Beard Awards
Established in 1990, the James Beard Foundation recognizes talent in the culinary arts, hospitality, and media around food. The foundation is also a driving force behind making the world a more connected and inclusive culinary community.
Each year, the foundation recognizes restaurants that are leaders in the areas of service, wine and spirits, and cuisine with their Restaurant and Chef awards. It also celebrates new and rising stars within the culinary world, as well as those who make a difference in their communities with its Humanitarian Award.
The winner of each category is determined by a panel of experts and the public. Restaurants that receive the most votes in a given area are named winners. The most coveted awards, like the World’s Best Restaurant, are handed out after a year-long search. The runner-ups are listed below each category.