Has anyone been to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park NY lately? I've been thinking I might like to try it. We enjoyed the one in California.

The CIA in Hyde Park is considerably better than the one in CA. I like their Italian restaurant the best (despite not having the most senior students). Reservations are often quite hard to get, as it is good value and also there simply aren't restaurants of similar quality within 20 miles of there.

I apologize for going slightly OT here, but what did you like about the CIA in CA? My son works in the restaurant business and I sent him and his wife there on their honeymoon based on FT recommendations and they were disappointed.

His observations:

Ignored by server. He attributes this to his age. His experience tells him that older diners tip much better and he blames that stereotype for the poor service. I asked if the servers were supervised and he said they were "professionals" as opposed to students. He left a note with his small tip.

He described the atmosphere as "noisy kitchen". The pandemonium of the open kitchen did not create a romantic aura.

Small portions & high prices. His wife's plate had exactly 3 scallops. I forget what it cost.

It needs to figure out what it is. Is it a school or a restaurant? The prices/service/atmosphere need to be in sync with reality.

I hope the Hyde Park operation is superior, but I wouldn't bother with the CA restaurant myself when there are so many other good options and life is so short.

As someone that has taken classes at the CIA at Hyde Park, I am a little biased in favor of them, so I will pass on comments.

BUT, they are having a special for lunches at their dining rooms between Nov 1 and Dec 21, 2006, a prix fixe menu for $19.46USD in honor of their 60th anniversary. Go to their website at www.ciachef.edu for details.

Going for the lunch, while not as great as dinner is still very top notch, you should not be disappointed... Hopefully.

Enjoy!
Kevin

We were there about a year ago and I don't recall what we ate or what we paid. I remember thinking that it was reasonably priced. Was it a place I would rave about? No, but we did like it. The service was excellent. Our server was very friendly. The food presentation was excellent and, whatever I had, I remember liking it.

We were there for lunch on an exquistely beautiful day so I think that added to the ambience.

I think, but can't swear to it, that the head chefs there came from the CIA in NY.

I second the Italian restaurant there.

My brother is studying at CIA in NY right now - my wife and I visited and had a great dinner - steak florentine and roasted potatoes

Be sure to get reservations far ahead of time - we were only able to get in b/c my brother pulled some strings...