Denver is a thriving culinary hub with a plethora of culinary schools that offer diverse programs for aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts.
Whether you are a seasoned chef looking to upskill or a beginner seeking to enter the culinary industry, there are culinary schools in Denver that will meet your needs.
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The List of Culinary Schools in Denver
In this section, we will take a closer look at the culinary schools in Denver, their programs, and what makes them unique.
Johnson & Wales University – Denver Campus
Founded in 1914, Johnson & Wales University is a private, non-profit institution that offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in hospitality, culinary arts, and business. The Denver Campus is home to the university’s College of Culinary Arts, which is renowned for its hands-on training and world-class facilities.
The culinary program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in both classical and contemporary culinary techniques, with an emphasis on sustainability and global cuisine. Students can choose from a range of degree programs, including Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts, Culinary Nutrition, and Food Service Management. Find more information here.
Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts – Boulder Campus
The Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts was founded in 2006 in honor of the legendary French chef Auguste Escoffier.
The school offers a variety of culinary programs, including Culinary Arts, Pastry Arts, and Food & Beverage Operations, as well as a Farm to Table Experience program that emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing.
The Boulder Campus is home to state-of-the-art facilities, including a professional kitchen, a demonstration kitchen, a pastry kitchen, and a student-run restaurant.
The school’s curriculum is focused on classic French techniques, as well as modern culinary trends and techniques. Find more information here.
Culinary School of the Rockies
Founded in 1994, the Culinary School of the Rockies is a private, for-profit institution that offers a variety of culinary programs, including Professional Culinary Arts, Professional Pastry Arts, and Farm to Table.
The school’s curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in culinary techniques, as well as practical experience in a variety of culinary settings, such as restaurants, hotels, and catering companies.
The school’s facilities include a professional kitchen, a pastry kitchen, and a student-run restaurant. Find more information here.
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Emily Griffith Technical College
Emily Griffith Technical College is a public, non-profit institution that offers a variety of vocational and technical programs, including a Culinary Arts program.
The program is designed to provide students with the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to work in the culinary industry, including culinary techniques, kitchen safety, food preparation, and menu planning.
The program also includes an internship component, which provides students with hands-on experience in a variety of culinary settings. Find more information here.
The Art Institute of Colorado
The Art Institute of Colorado is a private, for-profit institution that offers a variety of degree programs, including a Culinary Arts program.
The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in culinary techniques, as well as business skills and industry knowledge.
The program includes hands-on training in the school’s state-of-the-art kitchens, as well as internships and externships in a variety of culinary settings.
The school also offers a Baking & Pastry Arts program, which emphasizes the art and science of baking. Find more information here.
Metropolitan State University of Denver – Hospitality, Tourism, and Events Department:
Founded in 1965, the Hospitality, Tourism, and Events Department at Metropolitan State University of Denver is an excellent option for students seeking a comprehensive education in the culinary arts.
The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability and responsible sourcing in the food industry, and students have the opportunity to learn from experienced chefs and hospitality professionals.
The program also includes an internship requirement, which gives students valuable hands-on experience in the field. Find more information here.
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Community College of Denver – Culinary Arts Department:
The Culinary Arts Department at the Community College of Denver has been offering culinary education since 1980.
The program focuses on both classical and contemporary culinary techniques, and students can work in a student-run restaurant and catering service.
In addition to culinary skills, students also learn about restaurant management, cost control, and menu planning. Find more information here.
Red Rocks Community College – Culinary Arts Department:
Red Rocks Community College’s Culinary Arts Department was founded in 1984 and offers a wide range of culinary programs, from basic skills courses to advanced pastry and baking classes.
The program emphasizes hands-on learning, and students have access to a state-of-the-art kitchen and bakery.
Graduates of the program have gone on to work in some of the top restaurants and hotels in the country. Find more information here.
Denver Public Schools – CareerConnect Culinary Arts Program:
The CareerConnect Culinary Arts Program at Denver Public Schools provides high school students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience in the culinary industry.
The program partners with local restaurants and catering companies to provide students with internships and job shadowing opportunities.
Students also learn about nutrition, food safety, and menu planning. Find more information here.
Colorado Mountain College – Culinary Arts Department:
Founded in 1965, Colorado Mountain College’s Culinary Arts Department offers a unique approach to culinary education.
The program is based in the Rocky Mountains and emphasizes the use of local and seasonal ingredients.
Students can work in a student-run restaurant and learn about sustainable food practices.
The program also includes courses in wine and beverage management. Find more information here.
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Denver Community Church – Culinary School Program:
The Denver Community Church – Culinary School Program is a unique program that offers training in both culinary skills and spiritual growth.
Founded in 2012, this program aims to provide individuals with a holistic approach to culinary education.
Students learn not only the techniques and skills needed to succeed in the culinary industry but also the importance of community and social responsibility.
The program offers hands-on training in a variety of culinary techniques and includes courses such as Knife Skills, Culinary Basics, and Baking and Pastry.
In addition to culinary training, students also participate in spiritual growth activities such as meditation and community service. Find more information here.
The Cooking School of Aspen – Denver Campus:
The Cooking School of Aspen – Denver Campus is an extension of the renowned Cooking School of Aspen, which was founded in 1995.
This school offers a variety of culinary classes and workshops for both amateurs and professionals.
The school’s instructors are experienced chefs who have worked in some of the world’s top kitchens.
The classes cover a range of topics, from basic cooking techniques to advanced culinary skills.
Students can choose from classes such as Knife Skills, Classic French Techniques, and Artisan Bread Baking.
The Cooking School of Aspen – Denver Campus also offers private classes and corporate team-building events.
Culinary Quick Start Program at Workforce Boulder County:
The Culinary Quick Start Program at Workforce Boulder County is a free program that provides training for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in the culinary industry.
The program was founded in 2012 and is designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the culinary industry.
The program offers hands-on training in culinary techniques such as knife skills, sautéing, and baking. In addition to culinary training, the program also covers topics such as resume writing and interview skills.
The Culinary Quick Start Program at Workforce Boulder County also offers job placement services to graduates.
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Whole Foods Market – Denver Cooking School:
The Whole Foods Market – Denver Cooking School is a unique culinary school that offers a variety of classes and workshops taught by experienced chefs.
Founded in 2010, this school is part of the Whole Foods Market chain of grocery stores.
The classes cover a range of topics, from basic cooking techniques to international cuisine. Students can choose from classes such as Thai Street Food, Italian Classics, and Mexican Fiesta.
In addition to culinary classes, the Whole Foods Market – Denver Cooking School also offers classes on nutrition and wellness. Find more information here.
Sur La Table – Denver Cooking Classes:
Sur La Table – Denver Cooking Classes is a culinary school that offers a variety of classes and workshops for both amateurs and professionals.
Founded in 1972, Sur La Table is a well-known name in the culinary industry. The Denver location offers classes such as Knife Skills, French Bistro Favorites, and Sushi 101.
The school’s instructors are experienced chefs who have worked in some of the world’s top kitchens. In addition to culinary classes, Sur La Table – Denver Cooking Classes also offers private classes and corporate team building events. Find more information here.
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