Culinary Institute of America

The CIA at Greystone looks more like a castle at first glance than a culinary school.  But don't expect any knights, swords, or maces, unless by "mace" you mean the spice made from the nutmeg plant.

Photo courtesy of CIA Photo Archives

Students enrolled in the credit programs can choose to earn an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts, or specialize in Wine Studies or Baking and Pastry Arts.  Over 2000 students attend classes at the California campus (there are also campuses in TX, NY, and Singapore).

Of course, anyone with the desire can attend one of the cooking demonstrations or take what's known as a Food Enthusiast course, a one-day class which usually focuses on one recipe or culinary technique.  Calling oneself a "food enthusiast" sounds so much more refined than saying "I like to eat a lot"; I think I'll use that phrase from now on.  Some of the Food Enthusiast courses offered include: Gluten-Free Baking, The Flavors of Asia, and One Dish Meals.

Housed inside the school is the Wine Spectator Greystone Restaurant.  Diners can watch chefs and students work in the open kitchen to prepare their meal.  We found the waiters and chefs very friendly and willing to answer questions and discuss the ingredients and techniques used to make our food.

For a great happy hour, stop in and try the 5 Bites deal.  For just $10, you will get a 5-course tasting menu of small bites and a glass of wine.  This special menu is only offered from 4:30pm to 6:30pm Monday - Thursday.

Our small bites included soup, oysters, salad, fish skewers, and crab wontons.  Delicious!

Wine Spectator Greystone Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America
2555 Main Street  |  St. Helena, CA 94574  |  Reservations 707.967.1010

CIA Cooking Demonstrations:
Saturdays and Sundays only at 1:30pm  |  Cost: $20  |  Demonstration Schedule

CIA Food Enthusiast Courses:
Various Course Topics Available  |  Cost: $250  |  More info