The dining scene in Toronto is ever growing, which, for us foodies, means an endless supply of new restaurants to try. Every month, a handful of new eateries crops up with chefs at the helm who have had to travel abroad to receive their training. But going overseas isn’t the only way for aspiring chefs to receive a first-class education in the culinary arts – Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa is a premier culinary institute much closer to home.
The largest network of culinary schools in the world, Le Cordon Bleu has a 123-year long history of combining innovation and creativity to provide a premiere culinary education. Located in the heart of Canada’s capital city, Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa is the only Canadian campus of the culinary institute and the first to be founded outside of Europe.
Ottawa’s rich history in gastronomy and penchant for French architecture make it the perfect place to pursue a culinary arts education. Located within walking distance of downtown Ottawa, Le Cordon Bleu’s campus is close to restaurants, shops and major attractions. Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of Nature and other major attractions are close at hand. Easily accessible, the Byward Market is home to year-round farmers’ markets, specialty food shops, one-of-a-kind retailers, bars and restaurants.
Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa is set in the beautiful Munross Mansion, a historic building dating back to 1874. After being purchased by Le Cordon Bleu’s CEO and president, André J. Cointreau, the mansion was carefully restored to its original grandeur. The boutique-style setting of the Ottawa school makes it feel like home to all the students who attend.
Alumni of Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa have gone on to establish themselves in dining scenes all over the world. At the Shangri-La Hotel in Toronto, Le Cordon Bleu Ottawa alumni, Richard Singh creates Asian-inspired dishes as the chef de cuisine at Bosk restaurant. Who knows? Perhaps you'll be next.
To find out how to start your culinary education, head to their site here.
