A Revolutionary
Step in Jamaica's
Culinary
Education
A Message from the
Minister of Tourism
Jamaica’s culinary heritage is one of our greatest assets, and our tourism industry depends on exceptional food experiences that highlight our unique flavours and hospitality. The Gastronomy Academy at the Montego Bay Convention Centre represents a transformative investment in our people and our future.
This world-class training facility will produce certified chefs who can compete on the global stage while celebrating our rich culinary traditions. By partnering with the American Culinary Federation and utilizing the Caribbean’s first ACF-certified kitchen, we’re ensuring our culinary professionals receive internationally recognized credentials.
The Academy is more than education—it’s economic empowerment. Every chef we train, every certification we award, strengthens Jamaica’s position as a premier culinary destination. I encourage all aspiring culinary professionals to seize this opportunity to elevate their careers while contributing to Jamaica’s culinary excellence.
Hon. Edmund Bartlett, OJ, CD, MP, Hon LLD
Minister of Tourism
About Us
Transform Your Culinary Career
The Gastronomy Academy at the Montego Bay Convention Centre represents a revolutionary step forward in Jamaica’s culinary education landscape. More than just a training programme, we’re building the foundation for Jamaica’s next generation of world-class chefs, food innovators, and culinary leaders.
Why Choose the Gastronomy Academy?
- Train in the Caribbean's first American Culinary Federation (ACF) certified kitchen
- Earn internationally recognized certifications that open doors worldwide.
- Learn from Certified Culinary Educators in state-of-the-art facilities.
- Gain real-world experience preparing for major events at Mobay Centre.
Our Vision
To establish Jamaica as a globally admired gastronomy destination by nurturing and empowering a new generation of chefs through internationally recognized training and certification.
Your Journey to Culinary Excellence
-
STEP 1:
Assessment by HEART NSTA Trust to customise your learning path -
STEP 2:
Foundation building with ACF Handbook and JCTI curriculum -
STEP 3:
Practical training in a world-class kitchen -
STEP 4:
Certification via ACF theory and practical exams
Train in the first ACF certified kitchens in the caribbean!
The Academy Kitchen: Built for Excellence
Our ACF-certified kitchen is among the largest and most advanced culinary training facilities in the Caribbean region. Each specialized zone is designed to maximize learning and skill development:
-
HOT KITCHEN:
Master advanced culinary techniques and high-volume cooking -
COLD KITCHEN:
Garde manger, pastry fundamentals, and precision plating -
PREP AREA:
Knife skills, mise en place, and ingredient preparation -
GREEN ROOM:
Pre/post-training sessions and instructional media viewing -
STORAGE ROOMS:
Inventory management, costing, and ingredient control
Our Partners in Excellence
The Gastronomy Academy is supported by Jamaica’s leading institutions:
- Ministry of Tourism – Strategic oversight and industry alignment
- Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information – Educational standards and accreditation
- Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) – Financial support and development
- American Culinary Federation – International certification and standards
- HEART NSTA Trust – Training delivery and assessment
Beyond Certification: Lifelong Learning
Your education doesn’t end with certification. Through our partnership with the ACF, access ongoing professional development through:
- Advanced online training modules
- Trending culinary techniques and innovations
- Continuous skills enhancement opportunities
Course
Certified Culinarian (CC)
Course
Certified Sous Chef (CSC)
Course
Certified Executive Chef (CEC)
Course