To create a detailed list of the top 10 culinary arts colleges in India, multiple key factors were evaluated. One of the major aspects considered was the placement rating of each institution, as job opportunities are a crucial factor for students beginning their careers in the culinary industry. Another significant element was the value-for-money rating, ensuring that students receive high-quality education at an affordable cost. Faculty ratings were also reviewed, reflecting the expertise and teaching experience of professors who guide the students. The infrastructure rating played an important role as well, since modern facilities are essential for students to practice and refine their skills. These ratings, provided by India’s leading education portal Shiksha.com, added strong credibility to the list. Feedback and reviews from current and former students were also taken into account, offering valuable insights into the overall learning experience. With all these aspects carefully considered, a balanced list of the top 10 culinary arts colleges in India was compiled to help aspiring chefs make an informed decision about their education and career path.
Culinary Academy of India, Hyderabad
The Culinary Academy of India is the first professional training school for higher education in culinary arts in India. Since its establishment in 1996, CAI has maintained international standards on par with top American and European culinary institutes. Today, CAI is recognized as India’s leading institute for culinary arts and catering technology, and among the best culinary colleges for aspiring chefs worldwide. In 2019-20, CAI celebrated its silver jubilee. Over the past 25 years, the institute has placed more than 7,000 young Indians in leading cruise ship food production operations globally, while over 2,000 chef graduates are now shaping India’s hospitality sector at top hotels and restaurants.
Website: https://www.iactchefacademy.com/home.html
IICCM Institute of Culinary Arts, Pune
The IICCM Institute of Culinary Arts in Pune is a prestigious culinary school known for its advanced culinary programs. The institute is affiliated with the State Government University, City and Guilds of London Institute, and the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council of India. Focused on delivering industry-relevant education, IICCM has earned multiple awards including Most Rated Culinary Arts Institute of the Year 2022, Most Innovative Culinary Arts School of the Year 2021, and Asia’s Best Culinary Arts Training Institution of the Year 2022. Its exceptional placement record, with students consistently securing industry positions, highlights the effectiveness of its curriculum. IICCM continues to set benchmarks in culinary education in India.
Website: https://iiccm.in/
Welcome Group Graduate School, Manipal
The Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration (WGSHA), part of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, was founded in 1986 under the Dr TMA Pai Foundation in partnership with ITC Hotels. WGSHA has emerged as India’s premier hotel management school and was ranked 26th among the World’s Best Hospitality and Hotel Management Schools in 2020 by CEOWORLD Magazine.
Website: https://www.manipal.edu/wgsha.html
Institute of Hotel Management, IHM-A, Aurangabad
For over three decades, IHM Aurangabad has been nurturing world-class hospitality and culinary professionals. Its internationally recognized curriculum remains cutting-edge, offering unmatched real-world exposure and immersive learning. With strong backing from Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and support from the Maulana Azad Education Trust, the institute benefits from guidance by industry experts and leading academics, ensuring future-ready graduates.
Indian School of Hospitality, Gurgaon
Part of Sommet Education, the Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) is among India’s finest hospitality and culinary institutions. ISH offers culinary programs in partnership with École Ducasse, France, and hospitality programs in collaboration with Les Roches, Switzerland—both globally recognized higher education institutes.
Symbiosis School of Culinary Arts, Pune
Located in Pune, the Symbiosis School of Culinary Arts (SSCA) is a premier culinary institution offering a wide range of professional culinary courses. With modern facilities and expert chefs as faculty, SSCA equips students with essential knowledge and skills for successful culinary careers.
GD Goenka School of Hospitality, Gurgaon
GD Goenka University is a leading higher education institute in India with global recognition. Known for its focus on research, innovation, and quality learning, GD Goenka University is recognized by UGC and has earned the prestigious QS IGAUGE “Diamond” rating. It aims to set global benchmarks in 21st-century education.
IHM Pusa, New Delhi
The Institute of Hotel Management, Catering & Nutrition, Pusa, New Delhi, is one of India’s top-ranked hospitality schools offering undergraduate to postgraduate programs. Operating under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the institute has been honored as the Best Institute of Hotel Management in the country for six consecutive years. With eco-friendly initiatives like solar heaters and water conservation systems, IHM Pusa continues to set national standards in hospitality education.
Oberoi Center of Learning and Development
Founded in 1966, the Oberoi Center of Learning and Development (OCLD) provides a three-year degree program for students who have completed Class XII. Its Systematic Training and Education Programme (STEP) combines hands-on training at Oberoi and Trident Hotels with a bachelor’s degree in Tourism Studies from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
APCA – Academy of Pastry & Culinary Arts
The Academy of Pastry & Culinary Arts (APCA) is a prestigious group of professional culinary and pastry schools with campuses in Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Delhi NCR, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Established in 2010, APCA has grown rapidly with plans to expand into Thailand and Dubai. With advanced technology and innovative techniques, APCA focuses on both the art and science of culinary excellence, preparing students for global careers in food and hospitality.