Just like actors get Oscars and musicians receive Grammys, chefs have their own accolades that recognize their accomplishments. One of the most prestigious culinary awards is a Michelin star. These stars are awarded to restaurants that provide exceptional dining experiences.
A three-star rating is reserved for restaurants that are “really good, very good or excellent.” The restaurants must have a cuisine and style that make them stand out from the pack. They must also have a high level of professionalism, with service that is attentive but never intrusive. Finally, the restaurant must offer food that is prepared and served with great care.
Getting a three-star rating is no easy feat. It takes a lot of work and dedication. The Michelin team goes through an extensive evaluation process and checks for everything from cleanliness to menu consistency. Only a small number of restaurants earn three stars, making them the best of the best. The ratings are based on over 30,000 restaurant inspections. Inspectors are required to keep their identities secret, and the entire judging process is done by a panel of about 1,040 judges that is composed of food writers, chefs and well-traveled gourmands. The judges are asked to avoid restaurants that they have a financial stake in and cannot vote for places where they have dined within the past 18 months.
If you dream of becoming a chef, attending culinary school is essential. Luckily, there are plenty of great programs out there. The top culinary schools offer hands-on experience and flexible schedules. Plus, they’re a great option for career changers and young people who want to pursue their passions.
Some schools even have their own restaurants, giving students a real-world education. For example, Metropolitan Community College in Omaha, Nebraska, is home to the Auguste Escoffier school, which teaches techniques developed by the king of chefs himself. In addition, the school offers affordable tuition prices and unique opportunities, including a six-week “Farm to Table” experience that gives students an out-of-the-kitchen experience.
Another great culinary school is the Culinary Institute of New York. Located just 25 minutes from New York City, this culinary school is the perfect place to gain real-world experience in addition to an education. Students here can enjoy the 23,000 restaurants in the city after class and practice their skills.
Most people agree that going to culinary school is worth it, even if they don’t plan on running their own restaurant. In fact, a recent survey found that three out of four people who went to culinary school were debt-free after graduation. Whether you’re planning on opening a restaurant or just want to become a sous chef, these are some of the best culinary schools to consider.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a culinary school is its location. The school’s location will have a huge impact on your career. For instance, if you choose to attend the Culinary Institute of America, you’ll be close to all of New York City’s best restaurants.