Top Culinary Schools in Mexico: Study at the Best Mexican Institutions

Mexico’s rich culinary traditions have made it one of the top food destinations in the world.

While Michelin stars may be all the rage, how about a UNESCO rating?

That’s right: UNESCO first designated Mexican cuisine as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural value.

No small feat and it speaks volumes to the impact of Mexican cuisine.

But did you know that Mexico has also become a popular choice for formal culinary education?

Mexico’s culinary schools are becoming increasingly recognized on the global stage for blending centuries-old culinary traditions with modern, professional training.

These culinary schools reflect Mexican heritage in their teaching while also meeting international hospitality standards.

For those considering culinary studies abroad, Mexico is no longer just a destination for food tourism—it’s now a serious contender for world-class education in the culinary arts.

From Mexico City to coastal towns known for their seafood, these culinary schools offer training that blends traditional techniques with modern kitchen standards.

Students from across Latin America, the U.S., and Europe are enrolling to gain practical experience in kitchens where Mexican flavors are celebrated daily.

If you’re looking for culinary schools in Mexico, this is the right place to start.

This article highlights the best culinary schools in Mexico that stand out for their reputation, quality instruction, and commitment to student success.

Mexican cuisine is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

7 Best Culinary Schools in Mexico

The best culinary schools in Mexico are known for their excellent reputations, competitive enrollment, successful alumni, and highly qualified instructors.

These institutions are located in key culinary cities such as Mexico City, Puebla, and Oaxaca.

Depending on the culinary school, instruction is taught in Spanish, English, or both. This makes culinary schools in Mexico accessible to a wide range of international students.

Whether you’re looking to focus on traditional Mexican gastronomy, modern culinary trends, or a mix of both, these schools provide a solid foundation.

Below is an expanded and detailed guide to the top culinary schools in Mexico.

Each listing includes insights into what makes the school

• 1. stand out

• 2. the language of instruction

• 3. program highlights

• 4. why it might be the right choice for your culinary journey.

1. Le Cordon Bleu Mexico

Location: Mexico City

Website: Le Cordon Bleu Mexico

Due to its affiliation with the famed Le Cordon Bleu network, Le Cordon Bleu Mexico is one of Mexico's top culinary schools and has international prestige. Known for its high-quality instruction, modern facilities, and a professional yet welcoming learning environment, it attracts students from Mexico and around the world who are serious about advancing their culinary careers.

What Sets It Apart:

Le Cordon Bleu Mexico trains around 20,000 students annually across its global network, with a significant portion enrolled at its Mexico City campuses. The school’s reputation is built on a consistent standard of excellence, combining classic French techniques with specialized programs in Spanish and Mexican cuisine.

Faculty Expertise:

The school’s instructors include some of the most respected chefs in the industry, such as Chef Carlos Santos, Chef Carlos Barrera, Chef Denis Delaval, and Chef Edmundo Martínez.

These chefs bring a wealth of experience in both French and Mexican gastronomy, ensuring students receive practical, hands-on training that meets international standards.

Diploma & Language of Instruction:

One of the key advantages of studying at Le Cordon Bleu Mexico is its bilingual approach to education. Programs are offered in both Spanish and English to serve a diverse student population.

• ● Spanish-language programs are standard, but for non-Spanish speakers, simultaneous translation into English is available in specific programs.

• ● Programs such as the Diploma in Spanish Cuisine, as well as the Basic, Intermediate, and Superior Certificates in Spanish Cuisine, are delivered with real-time English translation to ensure accessibility.

• ● The prestigious Le Grand Diplôme®, combining intensive cuisine and pastry studies, also offers simultaneous translation from Spanish to English.

• ● Additional Specialty Certificates cover focused areas of culinary expertise and follow the same bilingual model.

2. Casa Jacaranda (Mexico City)

Location: Mexico City

Website: Casa Jacaranda

Casa Jacaranda offers immersive experiences through workshops in a charming historical home, blending cultural storytelling with hands-on instruction.

Reputation and Perception:

Casa Jacaranda in Mexico City is highly regarded for its immersive Mexican cooking classes that blend hands-on instruction with cultural exploration.

The school has earned a strong reputation for offering a personal, engaging, and authentic culinary experience. Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable instructors, the quality of the food, and the depth of cultural insight provided throughout the classes.

Visitors appreciate the school's thoughtful approach to teaching, which goes beyond recipes to include history, traditions, and the deeper connections between Mexican food and its culture.

Student Experience:

Cooking classes at Casa Jacaranda typically host small groups of 6 to 8 students, ensuring a highly interactive and personalized learning environment.

For larger groups, arrangements can be made by contacting the school directly to discuss customized classes or private events, allowing for flexibility in group size and focus.

Faculty Expertise:

Casa Jacaranda has culinary professionals who provide gastronomic experiences.

• Key figures include:

  ● Chef Emilio Pérez – Resident Chef and Operations Manager, known for guiding students through authentic Mexican cooking techniques.

• ● Ana Quintero – A culinary instructor with a focus on the transformative power of food and its cultural significance.

• ● Natalia Fitz – An environmental scientist who contributes through her work with the Casa Jacaranda Garden in Cuernavaca, bringing a unique perspective on sustainability and local ingredients.

Together, this team ensures that students receive expert instruction while understanding the cultural and environmental contexts of Mexican cuisine.

Language of Instruction:

Because Casa Jacaranda welcomes visitors from around the world, its culinary experiences are primarily conducted in English.

However, Spanish-language sessions are available upon advance request, making the school accessible to both local and international participants.

Programs Offered:

Casa Jacaranda offers immersive culinary experiences centered on the rich traditions of Mexican home cooking.

Programs typically include hands-on cooking classes, guided market tours, and opportunities to explore the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Classes emphasize the relationship between food, culture, and nature, encouraging students to discover their own unique “sazón,” or personal cooking style.

Through these intimate culinary experiences, participants gain both practical skills and a deeper appreciation for Mexico’s culinary heritage.

3. Universidad Anáhuac México (Multiple Campuses)

Location: Mexico City and other cities

Website: Universidad Anáhuac

Anáhuac’s gastronomy program integrates culinary training with business and social entrepreneurship.

It’s ideal for those looking to combine kitchen expertise with leadership roles in the food industry.

Reputation

Universidad Anáhuac México holds a strong reputation as one of the country’s most respected private universities and is recognized for offering high-quality education across a wide range of academic disciplines, including gastronomy and culinary arts.

It is consistently ranked among the top universities in Mexico by respected sources such as the QS World University Rankings.

Within the culinary field, Anáhuac is known for its comprehensive programs that blend culinary arts with business, leadership, and innovation, preparing students not only to succeed in kitchens but also in management roles within the hospitality industry.

The university’s strong reputation is further supported by its 4.5-star rating based on over 1,040 Google reviews.

• Key Information at a Glance:

  ● Students: Approximately 17,700 enrolled across both undergraduate and graduate programs

• ● Faculty: A blend of chefs and business experts.

• ● Language of Instruction: Universidad Anáhuac México’s culinary program, Gastronomy, is primarily taught in Spanish, reflecting the university’s cultural and academic context. However, select courses and modules are also available in English, providing opportunities for international students and bilingual learners to participate in key areas of study.

• ● Programs Offered: Universidad Anáhuac México offers a comprehensive Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts, designed to equip students with both practical culinary skills and the managerial knowledge necessary to excel in the food and beverage industry.

4. Sazón Cooking School (San Miguel de Allende)

Location: San Miguel de Allende

Website: Sazón Cooking School

Sazón is known for its hands-on, intimate approach to teaching regional Mexican cuisine, ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Key Information at a Glance:

• ● Reputation: Popular with tourists and aspiring chefs.

• ● Students: Small groups ensure personalized learning.

• ● Faculty Expertise: Chef Emanuel Cervantes leads Sazón’s culinary instruction. He is recognized for his deep knowledge of regional Mexican cuisine and his talent for making traditional techniques accessible to both novices and experienced cooks.

Language of Instruction

The primary language of instruction at Sazón Cooking School is English, making it especially popular with international visitors. However, Spanish-language sessions are available upon request with advance notice, allowing flexibility for different groups and individual needs.

Programs Offered:

Sazón specializes in hands-on culinary classes that focus on the rich diversity of regional Mexican flavors, ingredients, and culinary history.

Courses often include interactive market tours where students learn about local produce and ingredients.

Classes are tailored to various skill levels and group sizes, with options for private one-on-one instruction or small-group experiences.

The curriculum blends traditional techniques with insights into modern Mexican cooking trends, offering an engaging and practical approach for those interested in both cultural immersion and skill-building.

5. Instituto Culinario de México (ICUM)

Location: Puebla

Website: Instituto Culinario de México

Situated in the heart of Puebla’s rich culinary scene, the Instituto Culinario de México offers practical, hands-on training rooted in Mexico’s gastronomic traditions.

Reputation and Perception:

The Instituto Culinario de México (ICUM) is a respected private culinary institution recognized by Mexico’s Secretariat of Public Education (SEP).

While it may not carry the global name recognition of brands like Le Cordon Bleu, ICUM holds a strong reputation within Mexico for its commitment to preserving and promoting traditional Mexican cuisine and culinary techniques.

It is particularly well-regarded among students who wish to focus on the culinary heritage of Mexico while also receiving a solid foundation in international cooking standards.

ICUM is often considered a trusted choice for those looking to build careers in both the culinary arts and the broader hospitality industry within Mexico and Latin America.

Faculty Expertise:

• ICUM’s teaching staff includes experienced chefs with specialties in both Mexican and European cuisines. Key instructors include:

  ● Chef Amaro Cordero – Specialist in Cocina Mexicana (Mexican Cuisine)

• ● Chef Gervais Voisard – Expert in European Culinary Techniques

These chefs contribute a balance of regional expertise and international culinary standards, giving students a well-rounded educational experience rooted in both local and global culinary traditions.

Language of Instruction:

The primary language of instruction at ICUM is Spanish, reflecting the school’s focus on serving Mexican and Latin American students.

Select courses or modules may offer bilingual instruction for international students or those pursuing collaborations abroad.

Programs Offered:

The Instituto Culinario de México (ICUM) provides a range of culinary programs designed to prepare students for professional careers in the culinary and hospitality industries, both in Mexico and internationally.

Programs emphasize hands-on training in fully equipped professional kitchens, blending technical skills with theoretical knowledge of gastronomy and business management.

Programs Include:

• ● Culinary Arts: ICUM offers comprehensive degree and certificate programs in Culinary Arts, with a curriculum that balances Mexican culinary traditions with European influences, particularly techniques from French, Italian, and Spanish cuisines. The coursework covers essential kitchen skills, recipe development, international cooking methods, and culinary innovation.

• ● Students: A diverse cohort of Mexican and international students.

6. Seasons of My Heart (Oaxaca)

Location: Oaxaca

Website: Seasons of My Heart

Founded by renowned chef Susana Trilling, this school specializes in Oaxacan cuisine, one of Mexico’s most celebrated culinary traditions.

Reputation:

Seasons of My Heart Cooking School enjoys a strong reputation for offering immersive, hands-on culinary experiences rooted in Oaxacan and Mexican traditions.

Founded by renowned chef and culinary ambassador Susana Trilling and now led alongside her son, Chef Kaelin Ulrich Trilling, the school is celebrated for its deep commitment to preserving and teaching authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

Reviews consistently praise the school’s detailed market tours, interactive cooking classes, and the high quality of the food prepared, making it a standout destination for food enthusiasts and culinary professionals seeking a deeper understanding of Mexico’s rich gastronomic culture.

Student Experience:

Classes at Seasons of My Heart typically accommodate small groups, with a minimum of six students and a maximum of 18 students per session. This intimate class size ensures personalized attention and a collaborative, hands-on learning environment where students actively participate in every step of the culinary process.

Programs Offered:

Seasons of My Heart provides a variety of culinary programs catering to both locals and international visitors.

These include hands-on cooking classes in Oaxaca that focus specifically on Oaxacan and broader Mexican cuisine, with flexible options for full-day or half-day experiences. Beyond Oaxaca, the school offers specialized culinary and cultural tours such as the “Tastes & Traditions of Mexico City Tour” and the “10-Day Yucatán Peninsula Culinary & Cultural Tour.” These programs combine cooking instruction with cultural immersion for a richer educational experience. Additionally, for those unable to travel, the school offers online cooking classes, allowing students worldwide to learn traditional techniques and recipes directly from the experts.

Faculty Expertise:

Susana Trilling is a chef, teacher, author, television host, and respected figure in the culinary world, with decades of experience teaching and promoting Oaxacan cuisine.

Since 1988, Susana has lived in Oaxaca, dedicating her career to sharing the flavors, history, and traditions of the region through her work at Seasons of My Heart Cooking School.

Under her guidance and that of her son, Chef Kaelin Ulrich Trilling, the school continues to thrive as a trusted resource for those passionate about Mexican gastronomy.

7. Centro Culinario Ambrosía (Mexico City)

Location: Mexico City

Website: Centro Culinario Ambrosía

Centro Culinario Ambrosía has shaped some of Mexico’s most innovative chefs. It’s particularly well-regarded within the fine dining sector for its blend of traditional techniques and avant-garde cuisine.

• Key Information at a Glance:

  ● Reputation: A leading institution with strong ties to Mexico’s fine dining scene.

• ● Students: Consistent enrollment of local and international students.

• ● Faculty: Industry experts with deep roots in Mexico’s culinary culture.

• ● Language: Spanish, with occasional bilingual workshops.

• ● Programs: Diplomas in Culinary Arts, Patisserie, and a Bachelor’s in Gastronomy. Focuses on traditional and modern gastronomy.

Why These Culinary Schools?

These culinary schools in Mexico were selected for their strong industry reputations, educational quality, and alignment with growing trends in hospitality and gastronomy.

Mexico’s foodservice industry is projected to exceed $110 billion by 2030, driven by both domestic demand and tourism.

These institutions equip students—both Spanish and English-speaking—with the skills needed to succeed in this expanding sector.

Whether you’re aiming for the prestige of Le Cordon Bleu or looking to specialize in regional Mexican cooking, these schools offer diverse pathways to launch a successful culinary career.

Culinary School Fees and Locations

Cost of Living While Attending Culinary School (Mexico City)

The cost of living in Mexico for international students, including those attending culinary schools, is considered relatively affordable compared to other popular study destinations like the U.S., Canada, or Europe.

Monthly expenses typically range between $470 and $1,160, depending on lifestyle choices and the specific city.

City-Specific Rent Example (Monthly, 1-Bedroom Apartment):

• ● Mexico City (City Center): ~9,000 pesos ($530 USD)

• ● San Miguel de Allende / Oaxaca / Puebla: More affordable, averaging $300 - $600 USD outside city centers.

• ● Some luxury or highly central rentals can range up to 41,000 - 44,000 pesos ($2,400 - $2,600 USD) per month, though this is not typical for students.

Work/Study Opportunities for Culinary Students in Mexico

For Native Mexicans:

Mexican citizens studying culinary arts often find part-time opportunities in restaurants, bakeries, catering companies, and hotels to both support their studies and gain industry experience.

Many schools have partnerships that lead directly to internships or employment.

For International Students:

International students can face more restrictions. The standard student visa does not automatically permit paid employment, but exceptions exist for internships arranged through the school.

Common Work/Study Options for Both Mexican and International Students:

• ● Part-time restaurant jobs: Many culinary students work evenings or weekends in kitchens to gain hands-on skills.

• ● Externships: Most culinary schools in Mexico, including Le Cordon Bleu and Centro Culinario Ambrosía, require 200+ hours of professional externship experience, sometimes paid.

• ● Online coursework flexibility: Some institutions offer hybrid programs, freeing students to pursue part-time work.

• ● Financial Aid: Scholarships are available through individual schools, and students may explore aid options like FAFSA (U.S. citizens) or scholarships from organizations like the National Restaurant Association.

Job Opportunities After Graduating from Culinary Schools in Mexico

Graduating from a culinary school in Mexico opens the door to a wide range of opportunities for both local and international students.

Whether working behind the scenes in a bustling kitchen or creating unforgettable dining experiences in a luxury resort, the skills gained from these programs are highly valued across Mexico’s thriving food and tourism industries.

Mexico’s reputation as a global food destination, combined with its booming tourism sector, means culinary graduates can find roles not only in kitchens but also in related fields like media, tourism, and entrepreneurship.

Where Culinary Graduates Work:

• ● Restaurants

• ● Hotel

• ● Catering Services

• ● Tourism & Hospitality.

• ● Entrepreneurship

At a Glance: Common Culinary Job Roles After Graduation

• ● Line Cook

• ● Sous Chef

• ● Pastry Chef / Baker

• ● Executive Chef

• ● Catering Coordinator

• ● Restaurant Owner

Key Takeaways

• ✅ We discussed the seven best culinary schools in Mexico, trusted by both local and international students for quality culinary education.

• ✅ Covered detailed information about each school's fee structure, locations, and programs offered.

• ✅ Highlighted program durations, ranging from short-term workshops to full 4-year bachelor's degrees.

• ✅ Provided insights into each school's faculty, including renowned chefs and industry professionals.

• ✅ Explained the languages of instruction, with many schools offering programs in both Spanish and English.

• ✅ Shared realistic information on the cost of living for students in Mexico and the availability of work/study opportunities.

• ✅ Outlined the career opportunities available after graduation in restaurants, hotels, catering, tourism, and food media.

Final Thoughts

We have carefully listed 7 of the best culinary schools in Mexico to help guide your decision. The information provided here is accurate and based on trusted sources to ensure you have a solid starting point in your search.

If you’re considering enrolling, we encourage you to visit each school’s official website for the most up-to-date details on programs, tuition, and admissions.

These institutions are recognized as some of the finest culinary schools in Mexico, offering quality education for both local and international students.

We’ve done our best to give you a helpful and clear overview. Now it’s up to you to take the next step toward your culinary future.

You now have the information you need to make an informed decision about your culinary education in Mexico.