6 Culinary Schools in Houston to Turn You from Kitchen Catastrophe to Culinary Genius
I remember the first time I tried cooking a real meal from scratch. It was a simple pasta dish, but I was so proud of what I had made!
Little did I know, that small step sparked a love for cooking I never expected!
If you’ve ever had that same excitement for cooking, you might be wondering how to take it further. Whether you want to start a career in the kitchen or just learn new skills, there are several culinary schools in Houston that can help you do just that!
1. Culinary Institute Lenotre
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Website: https://culinaryinstitute.edu/
Address: 7070 Allensby St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: +1 713-692-0077
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 10 PM;
- Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM;
- Saturday – 9 AM to 2 PM;
- Sunday – Closed
If you’re thinking about a career in cooking, the Culinary Institute Lenotre® (CIL) in Houston is a great place to start!
Founded in 1998 by chefs Alain and Marie Lenotre, CIL is known for its hands-on training, combining traditional French cooking techniques with modern methods.
At this school, students learn both classic and modern cooking skills, including menu planning, nutrition, and pastry arts.
The school offers programs like Associate Degrees and diplomas in Culinary Arts and Baking/Pastry, with options to specialize in areas like Wine or Restaurant Management.
They have small classes, so students get personalized attention from experienced chefs. The school also offers evening classes, which is perfect for students who work during the day.
Outside of class, students can join cooking competitions, cooking demonstrations by famous chefs, and weekly student presentations where dishes are shared. These activities help students stay connected to the latest trends and improve their skills.
Best of all, CIL has strong connections to businesses in the culinary world, which helps students find career opportunities!
Pro Tips:
- Consider applying for financial aid, scholarships, or language classes if needed.
- Take advantage of flexible class schedules, including evening labs, if you’re working during the day.
2. Houston Community College – Culinary Arts
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Website: https://www.hccs.edu/programs/areas-of-study/public-safety-transportation–consumer-services/culinary-arts/
Address: 3100 Main Street, Houston TX
Contact Details: +1 713-718-2000
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM; Saturday to Sunday – Closed
If you want to start a career in cooking, Houston Community College (HCC) offers a great program that will teach you the skills you need to succeed in the fast-paced food industry!
You can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree or various certificates, all designed to help you grow in the culinary world.
The program teaches important topics like food preparation, cooking, baking, and using kitchen equipment. You’ll also learn about food safety and sanitation, which is important for working in any kitchen.
You can also earn the ServSafe Health Certificate and you’ll learn how to manage food costs and make sure the kitchen follows sustainable practices!
HCC’s Culinary Arts program also offers great job opportunities. There are over 2,000 chefs and cooks working in the Houston area, and this number is expected to grow by 10% in the next few years. Graduates can expect to earn around $39,000 a year!
Pro Tips:
- Students are expected to purchase tools and materials for classes, so make sure to budget for that!
- TSI testing is required before enrollment for AAS degrees and Level II certificates, so be prepared!
3. San Jacinto College – Culinary Arts
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Website: https://www.sanjac.edu/
Address: 5800 Uvalde Rd, Houston, TX
Contact Details: +1 281-998-6150
If you love food and want a career in cooking, San Jacinto College’s Culinary Arts program is a great choice in Houston. Located at the North Campus, the program prepares students for success in various kitchen jobs.
They offer both degree and certificate programs, including specializations like Pastry Chef and Restaurant Management. The program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation (ACF), which means it’s recognized as one of the best in the area!
The college has modern kitchens where students get hands-on experience, from cooking to managing a kitchen. Students can also compete in cooking contests, which help improve their skills and build connections in the industry.
San Jac has flexible programs for different skill levels! The Associate of Applied Science degree offers a full education, while the Certificate of Technology helps you get into the workforce quickly.
Best of all, the faculty is dedicated to teaching both technical and creative cooking skills, making sure students are prepared to be not only great cooks but also strong leaders in the kitchen.
Pro Tips:
- Network and seek internships to build professional connections in the culinary industry.
- Try visiting the state-of-the-art culinary facilities, which have been designed to simulate real-world kitchen environments.
4. Alvin Community College Culinary Arts Program
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Website: https://www.alvincollege.edu/culinary-arts/
Address: 3110 Mustang Rd, Alvin, TX
Contact Details: +1 281-756-3500
If you’re considering a career in the culinary arts, Alvin Community College offers one of the best programs in the Houston area!
ACC’s program provides both degree and certificate options designed to help you succeed in the culinary field.
The program focuses on a combination of hands-on cooking skills and in-depth knowledge of food preparation, baking, nutrition, and international cuisines.
You’ll also explore key aspects of the hospitality industry, including cost control, sanitation, and supervision, making you well-prepared for a wide range of culinary career paths.
One of the program’s strengths is its flexibility, offering evening classes for students with busy schedules. Plus, with guidance from experienced faculty, you’ll gain valuable real-world experience that sets you up for success in the culinary world.
The program is also recognized for preparing students for certification through the American Culinary Federation, adding even more value to your education.
Pro Tips:
- Take advantage of the academic courses in business and computer skills for a well-rounded education.
- You can check the school’s Career Coach platform for job opportunities and salary expectations in the culinary field.
5. Well Done Cooking Classes
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Website: https://welldonecc.com/
Address: 8207 Long Point Rd Suite B, Houston, TX
Contact Details: +1 832-782-3518
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 4:30 to 10 PM;
- Saturday – 12 to 3 PM; 4:30 to 10 PM;
- Sunday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM;
- Monday – Closed
If you’re looking to gain certifications in cooking without spending too much out of pocket, Well Done Cooking Classes is a great choice! It offers a mix of basic and advanced culinary lessons in a friendly and relaxed setting.
Beginners can start with the Fundamentals Classes, which teach essential skills like knife techniques, making sauces, baking bread, and even mastering fresh pasta.
For a more in-depth experience, the Culinary Certificate Program is available. This series of 20 classes comes with a Certificate of Completion and an embroidered chef jacket.
It’s a fantastic option if you’re considering a career in the culinary field or simply want to level up your skills!
You’ll work in small groups, which allows for personalized instruction. The school also offers wine, beer, and sodas to pair with your food, or you can bring your own drinks without any extra fees.
Gift certificates and discounted packages make these classes very affordable–they make a great gift too!
Pro Tips:
- You can view and print class recipes 48 hours before your scheduled class. No need to bring them unless you prefer taking notes.
- There’s often leftover food, so bring containers to take some home.
6. Galveston College – Culinary Arts
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Website: https://gc.edu/academic-career-programs/public-services-business-industry/culinary-arts.php
Address: 4015 Avenue Q, Galveston, TX
Contact Details: +1 409-944-4242
The Galveston College Culinary Arts Program is a great place to learn cooking. The program is located on Galveston Island, not far from Houston!
This program offers three distinct pathways: two levels of certificates in Culinary Arts and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.
One of the highlights of this program is its focus on real-world skills! You’ll get certified for sanitation and health management through the ServSafe Food Professional Managers Certificate.
You’ll also develop critical thinking skills to handle everything from adjusting recipes to managing dietary restrictions for clients.
For those who want to open their bar or restaurant, the program doesn’t stop in the kitchen. It teaches the business and administrative aspects of the food service industry, so you’ll be ready for leadership roles in a rapidly growing field.
Pro Tips:
- Explore transfer opportunities to universities for a bachelor’s degree if long-term academic goals are part of your plan.
- Start with the admissions process early by completing the Galveston College Admissions Application.
