Supporting Education & Culinary Innovation

SVCI depends on your support to offer affordable education to aspiring students pursuing a culinary career through our Professional Program.

January 27 - January 31, 2026

2026 FOOD & WINE CELEBRATION

Sun Valley’s Premiere Food & Wine experience

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A Unique Location For Your Next

UNFORGETTABLE EVENT

Great Food, Superb Service & Historic Surroundings For Your Next Dinner, Event, Celebration or Meeting

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The Culinary Hub of the

WOOD RIVER VALLEY

A Non-Profit Organization Devoted to Providing Professional Culinary Education & Experiences.

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Sharing Exciting Culinary Experiences

WITH OUR COMMUNITY

SVCI Is A 'Feel Good', 'Do Good' & 'Fun Experience Non-Profit'

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Transforming Lives Through

CULINARY EDUCATION

Paving the Way for Future Generations of Culinary Professionals Who Can Graduate With Little to No Academic Debt.

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Culinary Calendar

DINNERS & CLASSES

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THANK YOU TO OUR RESTAURANT AND FOOD PARTNERS

Dinners-Cooking Classes-Events

Join our themed dinners, classes and signature events at Sun Valley Culinary Institute, where passion and skill thrive. As a non-profit, we offer top culinary education and memorable experiences.

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Professional
Program

Prepare for a culinary career in Sun Valley with our one-year Professional Program. Gain hands-on experience, paid externships, and mentorship in a stunning, supportive setting.

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Venue
Rental

Enjoy our beautiful space on Main Street in downtown Ketchum.
This historic building provides an inviting, professional, and memorable
atmosphere to events big and small.

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Transforming Lives Through

CULINARY EDUCATION

Meet Romea Smith - Class of 2026!
Spiced Butternut Squash Soup

Romea shared this soup as a seasonal favorite she "loves toe make for my mom on a chilly fall day." Thank you Romea!

#culinaryeducation #cookingupcareers #holidaymealsmadeeasy

Meet Mihai Gherman!
Class of 2025/26

Mihai Gherman is an engineer who is passionate about cooking and service, having lived between two worlds. Originally from Romania, Gherman has called Sun Valley, Idaho, home since 2004. His love for cooking was inspired by his mother and grandparents, who showed him that food is a heartfelt way to express love and build community. With a degree in Electrical Engineering, he started a career in technology, but his passion for cooking remained constant. Gherman worked as a busser at The Sun Valley Inn, quickly learning the rhythm of service and teamwork. Within weeks, his dedication led him to become Assistant Manager at Gretchen’s Restaurant, where he gained a deeper understanding of both front-of-house and kitchen operations. He has worked at various restaurants across the Valley, including eight years at Cristina’s Restaurant, where he collaborated closely with Cristina Cook and Chef Pat Jam. When the pandemic changed daily life, Gherman saw an opportunity to merge his professional path with his passions. He shifted from biotech to property management for Tony Robbins, gaining experience in private service and estate management. At the Sun Valley Culinary Institute, Gherman is expanding his skills, deepening his knowledge, and building meaningful relationships in the local culinary community.

Interested in a career in the Culinary Arts? SVCI is accepting applications for the class of 2026/27! Click on the Professional Program link in our bio to learn more,

#CulinaryDreams #cookingupcareers #culinaryeducation
👨‍🍳👨‍🍳👨‍🍳

New Year's Day Après With Esta!
Jan 1, 1 to 6 pm | Kick Off The New Year With Comfort Food!

This year’s menu is pure holiday indulgence: crisp, golden latkes served hot off the griddle; soul-warming matzo ball soup just like Esta makes it; rich, house-made chopped liver; and the ultimate après treat—a classic, melty Reuben sandwich stacked high and served warm.

Gather your friends, grab a seat, and welcome the year ahead with an après celebration that feels as comforting as it is delicious.

No reservations are required. No takeout orders.

#delidelicious #newyearsday #resolutions #comfortfood #weloveesta

Meet Ryder Donerkiel - Class of 2026! 👩‍🍳
Pear & Gorgonzola Salad 🥗

Ryder remembers this salad as a crisp and fruity addition to his family's holiday table. A fresh and festive salad to compliment any holiday menu. Thank you Ryder!
#culinaryeducation #cookingupcareers #holidaymealsmadeeasy

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Supporting Education & Culinary Innovation

Your Contribution Counts

January 27 - January 31, 2026

2026 FOOD & WINE CELEBRATION

A Unique Location For Your Next

UNFORGETTABLE EVENT

The Culinary Hub of the

WOOD RIVER VALLEY

Sharing Exciting Culinary Experiences

WITH OUR COMMUNITY

Transforming Lives Through

CULINARY EDUCATION

Culinary Calendar

DINNERS & CLASSES