I came to Northwest Culinary Academy as a home cook, looking to advance my skills and make a career change. Northwest exceeded my expectations in every way possible and without a doubt, participating in the professional culinary and pastry program this past year, was the best year of my life. The instructors all made an incredibly positive impact and I am thankful for the newfound confidence I have gained as a result, both in cooking at home, and now working in the field. The entire team at Northwest is extremely supportive and encouraging, they care deeply about every student's journey, interests and are truly dedicated to help students navigate their first steps when entering into the field and continued mentorship throughout one's career. The curriculum and environment is one of a kind, you will truly have the opportunity to dive into your learning, hone your skills and discover a deeper appreciation for your love of cooking, and forever be inspired to follow your dreams!

There is an overwhelming amount of options for culinary programs in Canada, but I am so glad I chose Northwest. Their approach to learning is honestly refreshing. There's no "Yes, Chef", there's no babysitting, and there is no shortage of incredibly talented Chefs in the building, each with their own speciality and wealth of experience. I learned so much about food, the industry, and more unexpectedly, I learned a lot about myself. The professional culinary program will push you and help you achieve things you may never have thought possible. You will create lasting relationships and a network of connections in the industry. Look no further if you're considering culinary school. This is the best program in Canada.

As a long-time food hobbyist, I've been looking for a shorter pro-level program to challenge myself. After years of evening classes here, I took the leap of faith and enrolled in the 16wk professional culinary program. You have to work hard and constantly challenge yourself, but the staff will be there every step of the way to advise, support and encourage you. It was a great experience and I left with life-long valuable skills and a start as an official apprentice in a trade.

NorthWest is a wonderful place to learn culinary art and build your career in the food industry. Chef Tony and his crew of dedicated chef instructors are on a mission to run the best culinary school in the world. After completing the 3.5 month professional culinary program in late 2019, I am confident that NorthWest is right up there in achieving this mission. The teacher student ratio was exceptional, with 7 chefs to about 25 students. I am grateful for the strong working relationships I developed with each of the chef instructors - each taking the time to answer all of my many questions. NorthWest afforded me industry connections and insights through weekly placements in premier kitchens around Vancouver where I was given the opportunity to jump on the cooking line of some serious kitchens. In terms of logistics, enrolling into the course was made seamless through the kindness and professionalism of Co-owner, Lena, who handles the administration of the school. All in all, a wonderful learning experience, which I highly recommend to any culinary school aspirants out there!

I completed the professional pastry program here and it was the best decision of my life! The experience I had was priceless... I never wanted it to end! The passion that all of the Chef’s have is inspiring and I will never forget the lessons that they have taught me. All of it impacted my life immensely and I am eternally grateful. Thank you!!

I completed the NWCAV One Year Diploma in Spring 2019 and can safely say that it was one of the best decisions I have made!

The environment was incredibly conducive to learning, the Chef's are beyond supportive and to me now are mentors and persons to whom I will return to for guidance. The kitchen space is clean, organised and had many ingredients abound to experiment with.

The curriculum is a great balance between guided learning but also encouraging your own thinking and experimenting with flavour and techniques. It is taxing at times, but in a great way - what schooling isn't? We were there to stretch our capabilities and become better cooks for it.

The entire NW Team, from admin to chef to cleaner are a wonderful group of individuals. I have also made some amazing connections and friends throughout my time there. I completely recommend this school for anyone wanting to take their cooking to another level, refine their skills and open up their minds.

This school is truly a one of a kind special place. I did the professional culinary program and I could not say enough good things about the program, the chefs, and the school itself. The chefs are so knowledgable, caring and professional. Being vegetarian, I was concerned about being in a culinary program, but they where so incredibly accommodating and respectful. I am currently now in the professional pastry program and it is just as hands on and amazing! I recommend this school, and any of its programs or classes to anyone who loves to cook or bake. It does not matter if you have experience in the industry, just go to the school, have a meeting with one of the chefs, and you will see what Im talking about! Choosing to go to Northwest was honestly life changing in so many ways and one of the best decisions I have ever made.

My experience at NWCAV was an enjoyable one. I loved the wide range of food and techniques we got to learn, and all the menu development exercises.

The instructors and Lena are also very nice and approachable. They are easy to talk to, helpful, give good feedback and advice.

Going to NWCAV is one of the best decisions I have ever made! It was worth the investment :)