Looking for unforgettable cooking classes in the Hudson Valley? Discover what it’s like to take a hands-on culinary course at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, NY—including tips, class info, and what to expect.
Why the Culinary Institute of America Has Always Been on My Bucket List
For years, I dreamed of cooking at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York. As someone who has taken dozens of cooking classes—from Sur La Table workshops to pasta making in Italy and jam preserving in Brooklyn—this felt like the ultimate foodie milestone.
I’ve cooked everything from macarons and croissants to tamales, steak, and festive desserts like Bûche de Noël, but stepping into the CIA kitchen was an experience on an entirely different level.
My Experience: "Spain and the World Table" at CIA Hyde Park
I chose a single-day class called “Spain and the World Table,” taught by the amazing Chef Eric Sauber. His energy and positive attitude made the experience approachable, even as we tackled more complex techniques.
We began the class with a deep dive into knife skills—spending nearly an hour just learning to properly cut onions and garlic. Then we broke into teams of four, and each group was assigned four Spanish-inspired dishes to prepare.
We cooked nonstop for three hours, collaborating in a fast-paced, professional-style kitchen. Then we sat down to enjoy our hard-earned feast. It honestly felt like I was part of a culinary competition—but in the best way possible.
What Sets CIA Cooking Classes Apart
While I’ve participated in many cooking classes over the years, this one stood out for its intensity, structure, and teamwork. It felt like a true behind-the-scenes experience in a professional kitchen.
That said, I would have loved a bit more instruction or cultural background on the regional flavors of Spain. A brief overview of traditional dishes or culinary history would have elevated it even more. I'd even loved to have planned a bit better and done this with a friend because relying on strangers was challenging!
Still, the hands-on learning, expert instruction, and teamwork made this a one-of-a-kind culinary experience.
CIA Boot Camps, One-Day Classes & What You Need to Know
The CIA in Hyde Park offers a variety of culinary learning opportunities, including:
CIA Boot Camps (multi-day immersive programs)
Single-Day Cooking Classes
Beverage & Wine Classes
All are led by experienced CIA chef-instructors and held in state-of-the-art teaching kitchens.
💰 Cost: My one-day class was $250
📅 Booking Tip: I had to reserve my spot 5 months in advance—these classes fill up quickly!
What to Explore After Your Class at CIA
After class, I took time to explore the beautiful CIA campus and bookstore. I highly recommend checking out:
Student-run restaurants on campus (highly rated and open to the public)
Campus tours, offered on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 2:30 p.m.—just $15, with proceeds going directly to student scholarships
Final Thoughts: Is the CIA Cooking Experience Worth It?
Absolutely. If you're a passionate home cook, food enthusiast, or just looking for a unique weekend experience in the Hudson Valley, cooking at the Culinary Institute of America is a must. It’s immersive, inspiring, and yes—100% bucket list-worthy.
