Italian Culinary & Cultural Arts Boot Camp: July 2026
A Structured Culinary Immersion Hosted by Mahindra University and CAST
Programme Overview
This high-impact international boot camp integrates technical skill development, cultural intelligence, and exposure to Italy’s artisan production. Hosted at CAST (The Italian Institute of Culinary Arts and Hospitality) in Brescia, the programme situates students at the crossroads of Lombardy and Veneto, two of Italy’s most influential gastronomic landscapes. Participants will gain a globally contextualized culinary perspective grounded in authentic Italian excellence.
Professional Training
Hands-on technical instruction led by Italian Master Chefs at CAST.
Field Exposure
Direct, curated interaction with Italy’s premier food artisans and industry producers.
Cultural Heritage
Guided exploration of historic Italian landmarks, UNESCO sites, and regional architecture.
Reflection & Certification
Structured integration of experiences culminating in an internationally recognized certification.
Programme details
Quick Facts
- Dates: Saturday, July 18 – Tuesday, July 28, 2026
- Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights
- Eligibility: The programme is open for anyone
- Base Location: CAST, Brescia, Italy
- Arrival/Departure: Milan Malpensa International Airport
- Cohort Size: Minimum 15 participants
Contact your academic advisor today to review application deadlines and secure your position for July 18, 2026.
- Day 1 (July 18): Arrival at Milan Malpensa, private transfer to central Milan, check-in, and welcome dinner at CAST.
- Day 2 (July 19): Guided cultural walking tour of Brescia, including Roman ruins and UNESCO heritage sites.
- Days 3 & 4 (July 20-21): Intensive Italian Savoury Culinary Masterclasses. Modules include reimagined appetizers, regional pasta/risotto, and refined fish and meat main courses.
- Day 5 (July 22): Italian Artisan Gelato workshops followed by a curated field visit.
- Day 6 (July 23): Italian Pastry Artistry Masterclasses focusing on classic/contemporary techniques and ingredient sourcing.
- Day 7 (July 24): Artisan Traditions & Graduation. Choice of specialty modules: ‘Bread, Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar’ OR ‘Italian Coffee Culture’.
- Concludes with the Graduation Ceremony.
- Day 8 (July 25): Full-day excursion to Venice (Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge, and artisan districts).
- Day 9 (July 26): Full-day excursion to Milan, featuring a guided tour of the Duomo di Milano.
- Day 10 (July 27): Dual field visits for industry exposure and closing integration.
- Day 11 (July 28): Private shuttle transfer to Milan Malpensa Airport for departure.
Built to create professionally qualified chefs for the growing hospitality industry.
Course Structure
- Direct Mentorship: Learn from world-class Italian chefs and food artisans.
- Industry Access: Exclusive visits to world-class culinary producers in Brescia.
- Professional Recognition: All successful participants are awarded a Certificate of Participation by the CAST – Italian Institute of Culinary Arts & Hospitality.
