Welcome to the Culinary Arts program at Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES, where students embark on a delectable journey into the world of gastronomy, honing their skills in the art and science of cooking and hospitality. Our program offers a comprehensive culinary education that prepares aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals for exciting careers in the dynamic and diverse food industry.

Led by experienced chefs and industry experts, our Culinary Arts program provides students with extensive hands-on training in various culinary techniques, including knife skills, food preparation, cooking methods, pastry arts, and menu planning. This practical experience, combined with classroom instruction in our state-of-the-art kitchen facilities, equips students with the creativity, discipline, and attention to detail needed to excel in the culinary world.

At Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES, we believe in the power of experiential learning. That’s why our students can work in our student-run restaurant, where they can apply their skills in a real-world setting, serving delicious meals to guests under the guidance of their instructors. Whether mastering classic French cuisine, exploring global flavors, or creating innovative culinary creations, our students gain valuable hands-on experience that prepares them for success in the fast-paced world of culinary arts.

In addition to culinary skills, our program emphasizes professionalism, teamwork, and customer service—qualities essential for success in the hospitality industry. Students also can earn industry-recognized certifications, such as ServSafe, enhancing their credentials and employability in a competitive job market.

Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared to pursue a wide range of exciting career paths in the culinary and hospitality industry. From becoming a chef, pastry chef, restaurant manager, caterer, food stylist, and more, the possibilities are endless. Whether you dream of working in a fine dining restaurant, a bustling hotel kitchen, or launching your own culinary venture, the Culinary Arts program at Erie 2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES will help you turn your passion for food into a fulfilling and rewarding career. Join us and start cooking up your future today.

Students enrolled in Culinary Arts learn essential components of the food service and hospitality industry, including menu planning, food preparation, cutting techniques, recipe conversion, equipment operation, and baking. In addition, students develop their understanding of cost analysis, dining service, and banquet and buffet skills. The program is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers, from the short-order cook and specialty chef to the restaurant or banquet manager. The curriculum emphasizes sanitation training, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles, and kitchen safety. Students can pursue internships with area bakeries, restaurants, artisanal food shops, grocery stores, and food service industry businesses. 

* At the LoGuidice Educational Center, the Culinary Arts program incorporates Hospitality Management into the curriculum.

• Alfred State College
• Bryant & Stratton College
• National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (ProStart)
• Niagara County Community College
• Pittsburgh Technical College
• SUNY Cobleskill
• SUNY Erie
• SUNY Morrisville
• Trocaire College

• ServSafe
• Qualters
• ProStart, Foundations I & II (Carrier)

• Executive Chef
• Pastry Chef
• Dietician or Nutritionist
• Restaurant/Banquet Manager
• Food Stylist
• Entrepreneur or Business Owner