Culinary Institute Of Tuscany
The Culinary Institute Of Tuscany Is The Secret To Olive Garden’s Success
Olive Garden is owned by Darden Restaurants, Inc. And is one of the largest Italian-American chain of restaurants in North America. Every year, approximately 100 of their top chefs and managers are rewarded a trip to Italy to attend Olive Garden’s Culinary Institute of Tuscany, which was established in 1999.
The Culinary Institute is located in the picturesque Riserva di Fizzano. When the school is not in session, the property is a bed and breakfast and working restaurant that offers regional fare. Visitors can also take courses on the cuisine of Tuscany.
Eleven weeks out of the year, during the winter months, the cooking school opens its doors to the lucky Olive Garden employees who become students of the school. The chefs and managers learn about Italian cooking and also gain an appreciation for Italian culture.
The Institute teaches the staples of Italian cuisine, which consists of olive oil, wine, cheese, pasta, and bread. The school also helps students learn how to choose ingredients, how to layer flavors in their dishes, and educates them on proper wine pairings.
Olive Garden’s Culinary Institute of Tuscany is truly a magical place that shows hard-working employees the place where their work all began. A trip to beautiful Tuscany is certainly a reward in itself, but having the privilege of attending a hands-on cooking school and learning all aspects of Italian cuisine is a welcomed bonus.
The chefs and managers gain a new appreciation for the cuisine they represent in their restaurants. Actually being in the area’s surroundings and cooking with the freshest of local ingredients teaches them the importance of taking pride in the work they do and the dishes they create. The cooking school makes it possible for the employees to see what goes into the creative process from start to finish. It is here where Olive Garden’s menu specials are perfected, making it possible for their diners to experience the tastes, aromas, and heart of an Italian kitchen.