EDUCATION

There are many ways to join the industry but growth and business acumen is greatly enhanced with formal education. Today, world over, there are some great colleges and training institutes for young Chefs. One can learn techniques and familiarize oneself with new technology that is now an integral part of the kitchens around the world. A good institute will teach you the basics of food handling and sanitation procedures, certify you in HACCP, teach you cuts of meat and vegetables and the various cooking methods.

To get to the top you need to be well practiced in advanced cooking techniques, and able to cook/manage menus for fine dining sit downs, buffets and banquets. Finally, you are expected to have a rich knowledge and experience of global cuisines.

I started my formal education in 2008 as a STEP Associate at the prestigious Oberoi Hotel in Bangalore (Bengaluru) whilst completing my Bachelor Degree in Tourism Studies, and then went on to do a Post Graduate Diploma in Kitchen Management at the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development (OCLD) in 2011. I also recommend the highly competitive program that is run every year by ICEX Spain Trade and Investment in Spanish Gastronomy.