Culinary Schools in New York

Pretzels, Hot Dogs, and More at Culinary Schools in New York

New York is a must-visit state for those who long to eat some of the country's best-known dishes. Thanks to its bustling culinary scene and notable crop of culinary schools, it is a popular destination for those who want to learn to cook, too.

A taste of New York's culinary scene

It is impossible to discuss New York state's culinary profile without mentioning New York City, which is somewhat of a national culinary mecca for chefs and foodies alike. What makes New York City's food scene so dynamic is its diverse population: Virtually all cultures -- and their cuisine -- are represented here, and in a variety of venues. According to Zagat (zagat.com, 2011), New York City -- and thus New York state -- plays host to some of the nation's finest chefs, including chefs Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Mario Batali and Bobby Flay. It is home to hundreds of food trucks, diners and street-cart vendors. If someone wants it, chances are they can get it somewhere in New York. Still, some foods are so quintessentially New York that they deserve their own recognition. According to The New York Times (nytimes.com, 2012), these include New York-style pizza, cheesecake, Manhattan clam chowder, and bagels. Kosher deli classics, like pastrami and Jewish rye, are also among the state's culinary landmarks. Even the all-American classic hot dog was redefined here, as landmarks Nathan's and Coney Island can affirm.

New York's notable food scene extends far beyond New York City, however. The state's coastal position gives it access to plenty of fresh seafood, which takes center stage in sushi or seafood restaurants across the state. Also, given its central position in the American Northeast, New York has embraced a number of regional favorites from beyond its borders, including Philadelphia's famous cheese steak sandwiches or southern Boston's corned beef and mash. The state is also a staging ground for a number of culinary movements, including the slow, sustainable and farm-to-table trends. From rich or comfort food to light and healthy cuisine, New York has it all.

Culinary schools in New York: Learn by doing

For those considering culinary schools in New York, the state's food scene may be reason enough to make the move. Another reason to consider settling here: New York's culinary industry is booming. According to a report from the National Restaurant Association (restaurant.org, 2013), restaurants will generate a projected $33.6 billion in sales in 2013 and account for about 751,000 jobs. The group also projects that between 2013 and 2023, New York will add 50,600 new restaurant jobs. This is significant, because every dollar spent in a New York restaurant adds an additional $.88 in sales to the state economy, so that for every $1 million spent, 20.6 new jobs are created. All of this could generate tremendous opportunity for future culinary pros considering culinary schools in New York.

Perhaps another reason New York may be the ideal launching pad for one's culinary career is its roster of respectable chefs who can serve as mentors to those new to the field. Whether their goals are personal culinary enrichment or to fulfill an externship requirement, culinary students may find that New York's restaurants can make dynamic classrooms, and its cast of seasoned chefs knowledgeable teachers.

Sources:

New York Restaurant Industry At A Glance, http://www.restaurant.org/Downloads/PDFs/State-Statistics/newyork

New York City Food Lover's Guide: Who Came Out on Top?, http://www.zagat.com/buzz/new-york-city-food-lovers-guide-who-came-out-on-top

Lost, Then Found: New York Classics, http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/01/dining/lost-then-found-new-york-food-classics.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0

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