For foodies who believe the heart of a culture beats in its kitchen, there’s no better way to experience a destination than by learning to cook its most beloved regional dishes. As a chef who teaches international classes in Los Angeles, I know that stepping into a country’s kitchen can feel like a passport to its culture. Each dish tells a story, offering a unique perspective on a place, its people, and its history. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills or just savor the thrill of cooking, these five cooking schools abroad promise unforgettable, world-class experiences.
Of course, there are countless boutique and privately owned culinary schools around the world, each with its own flavor and flair. Narrowing down the options can be a feat! But the five schools highlighted here have earned global acclaim for their accessibility, expert instructors, and immersive adventures. So, whether you’re in for a quick class or a weeklong immersion, here’s where to start.
1. Le Cordon Bleu – Paris, France
No list of the best cooking schools abroad would be complete without the iconic Le Cordon Bleu in Paris. Founded in 1895, this world-renowned institution has trained culinary heavyweights for over a century, but it’s not just for professionals. Le Cordon Bleu offers one-off classes and short-term programs for food lovers craving a taste of French gastronomy.
Visitors can indulge in a French Pastry Workshop, a Bordeaux Wine Masterclass, or a Traditional French Cuisine course covering everything from sauces to pastries. The chance to cook in this legendary environment is a dream for anyone looking to refine their skills while soaking in Paris’s charm.
- Location: 13-15 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005 Paris, France
- Duration: One-day workshops to multi-day programs
- Website: Le Cordon Bleu Paris
2. Baipai Thai Cooking School – Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand’s cuisine is legendary for its bold flavors and vibrant street food culture. At Baipai Thai Cooking School in Bangkok, students get an immersive culinary experience in a tranquil garden setting. Here, you’ll learn to make iconic dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum Soup from scratch, guided by expert chefs.
Half-day courses include a visit to a local market to pick out fresh ingredients—a mini adventure that offers a deeper connection to Thai food culture. Baipai’s small-group classes make it a top choice for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Thai culinary traditions.
- Location: 150/12 Soi Nandha, Thoet Damri Rd, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand
- Duration: Half-day and full-day courses
- Website: Baipai Thai Cooking School
3. Centro Culinario Ambrosía – Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico’s culinary heritage is as colorful and diverse as the country itself. At Centro Culinario Ambrosía in Mexico City, food enthusiasts learn the art of Mexican cuisine in a professional kitchen, from Oaxaca’s rich moles to Yucatán’s smoky spices.
The school’s Mexican Regional Cuisine class is a favorite, teaching the secrets behind classic dishes and local ingredients. Shorter workshops, like the Mole Masterclass or Tacos and Salsas session, make it easy to fit a slice of authentic Mexican cooking into your trip.
- Location: Calle de la Barranca 2, Col. Lomas de Vista Hermosa, Cuajimalpa de Morelos, 05100 Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico
- Duration: Half-day workshops to multi-day programs
- Website: Centro Culinario Ambrosía
4. Scuola di Arte Culinaria Cordon Bleu – Florence, Italy
For a taste of authentic Italian cooking in the heart of Tuscany, the Scuola di Arte Culinaria Cordon Bleu in Florence is a celebrated choice. Located in a prestigious 16th-century building, this school offers a range of programs, from short workshops to a full Bachelor’s Degree in Italian Culinary Arts for those aiming for a professional path.
Courses cover everything from traditional Tuscan dishes to advanced Italian cuisine, guided by the school’s founders, Gabriella Mari and Cristina Blasi, along with experienced chefs. With over 30 years of culinary instruction, the Scuola di Arte Culinaria Cordon Bleu brings together Italian tradition and innovation, making it an ideal destination for culinary immersion.
- Location: Via Giuseppe Giusti, 7, 50121 Florence, Italy
- Duration: Single workshops to multi-month programs
- Website: Scuola di Arte Culinaria Cordon Bleu
5. Tokyo Cooking Studio – Tokyo, Japan
For an authentic Japanese culinary experience, the Tokyo Cooking Studio in Shibuya offers small-group, hands-on classes that introduce students to Japanese home cooking and traditional techniques. From crafting sushi and making ramen from scratch to preparing seasonal dishes, Tokyo Cooking Studio’s classes provide an engaging, authentic dive into Japanese flavors and techniques.
The studio’s serene and welcoming environment creates a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can connect deeply with Japanese food culture. Classes range from short, two-hour sessions to more extended culinary workshops.
- Location: 2 Chome-25-3 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0063, Japan
- Duration: 2-hour to full-day courses
- Website: Tokyo Cooking Studio
Additional Culinary Experiences
If you’re eager for even more culinary adventures, these platforms can help you explore a world of options:
These sites make it easy to find and book unique food experiences worldwide, from intimate local cooking classes to immersive food tours—perfect for your next food-focused journey.
Learn more about Chef Jesse, explore his recipes, and dive into his plant-powered blog, Going Vegan, at chef-jesse.com.
