Our programs are state approved in compliance with California state standards set by BPPE.
Where are classes held?
CulinaryLab has two locations, one is located in Tustin, California, right off the 55 Freeway and 17th Street, next to Mimi’s Café, and the other in Santa Ana at 4th Street Market.
Tustin Location 17231 17th St. B
Tustin, CA 92780
Why is CulinaryLab so affordable compared to other culinary schools?
At $26,500 for the entire program, CulinaryLab is a fraction of what’s required for enrollment at traditional culinary schools. We keep fees as low as possible because we don’t believe it’s fair to stick students with high debt after graduation. This is also one reason why we place you in an apprenticeship. You’re able to make money that you can put toward your education or to cover your costs while learning.
Do you offer financial assistance?
While we don’t accept FAFSA, we work with two student loan companies to offer payment plans. Keep in mind, during your 1,000-hour apprenticeship, you can make a minimum of $13,000 before graduation.
Can I choose my schedule?
We offer morning (7:00 am to 2:30 pm) and evening (3:00 pm to 10:30 pm) class options two days a week (Monday and Tuesday or Wednesday and Thursday) throughout the year. Our program is two days per week to accomdate students with outside jobs and/or family responsibilities.
Do you guarantee a job after graduation?
You graduate from CulinaryLab with the knowledge and connections needed to excel in a variety of culinary careers. A 1,000-hour paid apprenticeship program is part of the program. Many of our students stay at that job after graduation.
Do I have to take all the classes?
Chef Ryan and the team have narrowed down this program as much as possible to teach students only what really matters. In order to leave CulinaryLab with the quality education and experience we think is necessary to succeed in the industry, students are required to complete all five levels of the program.
How soon can I get started?
Classes typically fill up quickly. However, we start new cohots quarterly. So, if your application is accepted, you can begin as early as the next cohort start date.
COVID-19: What safety measures are we taking during COVID?
CulinaryLab takes many steps to ensure student safety, including mandatory face coverings, small class sizes, individual work (no partners), hourly disinfecting of high-traffic areas, and socially distant work stations. Each cooking station is 6 feet from the next, and the Chef instructor is teaching at the front of the room, with video and monitors. Chef Ryan and CulinaryLab has done everything possible to make sure students are comfortable and able to work safely in the kitchen.
