Last Updated on July 14, 2025 by admin
If you’re passionate about food and dream of a career as a chef, pastry artist, or food entrepreneur, Kolkata offers some of the finest culinary arts colleges in India. This updated 2025 guide helps you explore the top culinary institutes in the City of Joy with detailed comparisons on courses, fees, placements, alumni success, and more.
Whether you are a Class 12 graduate or a working professional looking for a career switch, the culinary industry in Kolkata offers a diverse range of learning options—from diplomas to international certifications. In this blog, we will cover the top 10 culinary colleges, what makes them stand out, and how to choose the best fit for your career.
Why Choose Kolkata for Culinary Arts?
1. Diverse Culinary Landscape
Kolkata’s culinary scene is an exciting fusion of traditional Bengali cuisine and global gastronomical trends. The city’s love for food reflects in its rich street food culture, luxury fine-dining spaces, and booming café ecosystem.
2. Cost-Effective Living and Education
Compared to cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, or Delhi, both the living costs and tuition fees in Kolkata are affordable. This makes the city highly appealing to outstation students looking for quality education without financial strain.
3. Strong Industry Network
The city hosts numerous five-star hotels, heritage restaurants, and international franchises. This gives students better chances for internships, part-time experience, and future employment.
What to Look for in a Culinary College
Before making your decision, consider the following parameters:
- Accreditation & Affiliations: Ensure the institution is recognized by UGC, AICTE, or global culinary bodies.
- Curriculum & Specializations: Look for programs offering both practical kitchen training and theoretical management modules.
- Industry Tie-Ups: Institutes with active collaborations often offer better internship and placement opportunities.
- Faculty Experience: Learn from chefs who have industry experience in luxury hotels or global chains.
- Placement Record: Evaluate the track record based on real placement stats and alumni testimonials.
Top Culinary Arts Colleges in Kolkata – Quick Comparison
| College Name | Avg. Fees (INR) | Course Duration | Placement Rate | Top Recruiters |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IHM Kolkata | 1.5 – 2.5 Lakhs | 3 Years | 95% | Taj, Oberoi, ITC, Hyatt |
| NSHM Knowledge Campus | 3.2 Lakhs | 3 Years | 90% | Le Meridien, Marriott, Novotel |
| Guru Nanak Institute (GNIHM) | 2.8 Lakhs | 3 Years | 92% | JW Marriott, Trident, The Park |
| IIHM Kolkata | 4.5 Lakhs | 3 Years | 85% | Hilton, ITC, Radisson Blu |
| Subhas Bose Institute | 1.2 Lakhs | 1-2 Years | 75% | Budget Hotels, Startups |
| SBIHM Kolkata | 2.5 Lakhs | 3 Years | 80% | Café Coffee Day, Club Mahindra |
| International School of HM | 3 Lakhs | 2-3 Years | 88% | Cruise Liners, Resorts |
| Techno India University | 2 Lakhs | 3 Years | 78% | Local Hotels, Event Firms |
| NIPS School of HM | 3.6 Lakhs | 3 Years | 86% | Westin, Taj, Shangri-La |
| George College | 1.8 Lakhs | 3 Years | 70% | Entry-level placement support |
In-Depth Look at the Top Culinary Colleges in Kolkata
1. IHM Kolkata – Institute of Hotel Management
- Affiliation: NCHMCT, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India
- Courses Offered: B.Sc. in Hospitality and Hotel Administration
- Course Highlights: Industry-led modules, intensive kitchen training, and personality development sessions.
- Admission Process: Requires qualifying NCHM JEE.
- Why Choose IHM Kolkata: It’s the most reputed government culinary institute in East India with high placement rates and affordable fees.
2. NSHM Knowledge Campus
- Programs: B.Sc. in Culinary Science, Diploma Courses
- Facilities: Modern kitchen labs, bakery training sections, and food testing labs.
- USP: Focus on nutrition, global cuisines, and food innovation.
- Placement Partners: Marriott, Radisson, Oberoi Group.
3. GNIHM – Guru Nanak Institute of Hotel Management
- Special Courses: International Diploma in Culinary Arts, BA in International Culinary Arts
- Global Exposure: Offers internships in Dubai, Malaysia, and the U.S.
- Placement Support: 100+ recruiters onboard; has a reputation for global placements.
- Student Support: Offers mentorship, industrial visits, and workshops by international chefs.
4. IIHM – International Institute of Hotel Management
- Degree Options: Dual certification from IIHM and UK Universities.
- International Pathways: Students can pursue part of the program in London or Bangkok.
- Special Focus: Wine tasting, molecular gastronomy, food business management.
- Entrance Exam: eCHAT followed by personal interview.
5. Subhas Bose Institute of Hotel Management
- Programs Offered: Diploma in Culinary Arts, Certificate Courses
- Best Suited For: Students looking for short-term, skill-based culinary training.
- Industry Tie-Ups: Local chains, budget hotel brands, and caterers.
- Advantages: Low fees, personalized mentorship, and community catering exposure.
6. SBIHM Kolkata
- Course Duration: 3 Years for Bachelor’s programs
- Unique Features: Entrepreneurial skill development, menu planning modules
- Training: Internship programs in restaurants, hotels, and cafés
- Recommended For: Students interested in owning cafés or catering businesses
7. International School of Hospitality Management (ISHM)
- Placement Highlights: High international internship conversion rate
- Learning Modules: Emphasize cruise kitchen management, bakery, and advanced food styling
- Extra Benefits: Student exchange programs and soft skills training
8. Techno India University – School of Hotel Management
- Degree: Bachelor in Hotel and Hospitality Management with culinary focus
- Strength: Blends hospitality theory with culinary practice
- Ideal Candidate: Students wanting a tech-integrated education model
9. NIPS School of Hotel Management
- Awards: Best Private Hotel Management Institute (Times Education Icons)
- Specialization: Food & Beverage Production, International Cuisine
- Facilities: Multi-kitchen setups, mock restaurants, and café training
10. George College of Management & Science
- Programs Offered: B.Sc. in Hospitality Management with culinary modules
- Best Feature: Value-for-money education with career launchpad
- Support: Career counseling and placement drives
Admission Process & Eligibility Criteria
- Standard Eligibility: Class 12 (any stream) from a recognized board
- Entrance Exams: NCHM JEE (IHM), eCHAT (IIHM), Institute-level tests
- Age Limit: Generally 22 years (relaxable for reserved categories)
- Documents Required: Mark sheets, ID proof, entrance exam results, photos
Culinary Courses Available in Kolkata
- Bachelor’s Programs: 3-Year B.Sc. or BA in Culinary Arts/Hospitality
- Diplomas & Certifications: Duration ranges from 6 months to 2 years
- Specializations: Pastry Arts, Continental Cuisine, Food & Beverage Management, Nutrition
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- Merit-Based: For students scoring above 85% in Class 12 or entrance exams
- Need-Based: For students with low-income backgrounds (subject to verification)
- Special Scholarships: For female candidates, SC/ST candidates, and sports achievers
Career Scope After Culinary School
- Professional Roles:
- Executive Chef
- Sous Chef
- Food Stylist
- Pastry Chef
- Kitchen Manager
- Industries:
- Hospitality Chains
- Cruise Liners
- Cloud Kitchens
- Food Blogging & Consulting
- Average Starting Salary: INR 2.5 – 5 LPA depending on role and brand
Alumni Testimonials
- Chef Arjun Das (GNIHM): “GNIHM gave me the skill set and the opportunity to intern in Malaysia. I’m now Head Chef at JW Marriott Pune.”
- Chef Priya Mukherjee (NSHM): “The training I received helped me launch three cafés in Bangalore. The campus life was equally enriching.”
- Chef Souvik Banerjee (IIHM): “Thanks to IIHM’s UK pathway program, I now work aboard a cruise ship, traveling the world.”
Final Thoughts
Kolkata’s blend of cultural richness, affordability, and industry opportunities makes it a top destination for aspiring chefs. Whether you’re aiming to work with international hotel brands or launch your own food startup, choosing the right culinary arts college is your first step to success.
Take your time to research, attend open houses, speak with alumni, and assess your goals. With the right education and passion, your culinary dreams are just a whisk away!
Ready to start your journey? Bookmark this page and apply to your dream culinary college today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the duration of culinary courses in Kolkata?
Most bachelor’s programs last 3 years, while diplomas range between 6 months and 2 years.
Q2. Which culinary institute offers international placements?
GNIHM, IIHM, and ISHM have strong international tie-ups for internships and placements.
Q3. Do these colleges provide accommodation?
Yes, most colleges offer hostel facilities for outstation students with varying costs and amenities.
Q4. Can I open a restaurant after graduating from these colleges?
Absolutely. Many alumni have launched successful food ventures right after graduation or after gaining experience.