More and more culinary students and aspiring chefs are setting their sights on international internships, and for good reason. Among all the exciting options, Spain stands out as the ultimate destination to dive headfirst into the world of high-end cuisine.
Let’s explore exactly why Spain stands out as the perfect choice for culinary internships.
World-Renowned Cuisine
Renowned globally for its culinary expertise, Spain has earned its stripes as a culinary powerhouse. With celebrated chefs like Ferran Adrià and Joan Roca leading the charge, Spanish cuisine has garnered international acclaim, making it an ideal destination for aspiring culinary professionals eager to learn from the best.
Gain experience in Michelin-starred restaurants
At Alliance Abroad, we’ve partnered with some of the best independent, award-winning restaurants across Spain and the Spanish Islands. Right now, you can apply for internship positions and learn from top chefs such as the Michelin-starred restaurant Aponiente, in Cadiz, Versatil in Zarza de Granadilla, Skina in Marbella, and Mantua in Jerez de la Frontera. With both summer and winter positions available, now is the ideal time to speak to our team to find the best match for your skills and experience.
Culinary Innovation and Creativity
Spain has a rich culinary history, blending centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge innovations. From the savory paellas of Valencia to the succulent jamón ibérico of Andalusia, the country’s diverse regional specialties offer a unique journey through its culinary history. As an intern you can learn to make the pintxos of the Basque Country – small yet flavorful tapas often enjoyed with a glass of local wine – or the hearty fabada asturiana from Asturias, a comforting bean stew made with chorizo and morcilla.
At the forefront of culinary innovation, Spain is synonymous with avant-garde gastronomy. Pioneering techniques like molecular gastronomy have pushed the boundaries of traditional cooking, inspiring a new generation of chefs to explore uncharted culinary territories. For example, Chef Ferran Adrià’s El Bulli restaurant has revolutionized the way flavors and textures are combined, while Chef Andoni Luis Aduriz’s use of edible paper has helped make dining an interactive and multi-sensory experience.
Diverse Regional Flavors
Spanning diverse landscapes and climates, Spain’s regional cuisines offer a world of flavors waiting to be explored. From the Basque Country’s pintxos to Galicia’s seafood delights, each region boasts its own culinary identity, providing ample opportunities for culinary students to broaden their palate.
Our culinary internship program isn’t just based in the bigger Spanish cities, but brings participants to all regions of Spain where you can explore and savour these regional variations and specialities. Positions are available in Cadiz, Hondarribia, Basque Country, Zarza de Garandilla, Extremadura, Marbella, Galicia, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Jerez de la Frontera and more!
Access to Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients
Nurtured by Spain’s fertile lands and abundant seas, the country’s culinary landscape is blessed with an array of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From sun-ripened tomatoes to premium olive oils, interns have the privilege of working with top-quality produce sourced directly from local markets and farms. Hone your skills with the freshest ingredients at your fingertips!
Vibrant Food Culture and Lifestyle
Spain’s vibrant food culture celebrates communal dining, tapas culture, and a calendar filled with food-centric festivals. Whether savoring a meal with friends or partaking in a local fiesta, students will find themselves immersed in Spain’s culinary lifestyle.
Some of the upcoming culinary festivals during this year are:
- Valencia Cuina Oberta – Restaurant Week : The most recognized restaurants in Valencia participate in this initiative that aims to bring the best gastronomy to all audiences.
- Gastrofestival Madrid : The city of Madrid becomes the world capital of gastronomy for a few days with a multitude of culinary offers.
- Fiestas de la Vendimia de Jerez de la Frontera : During these celebrations, tribute is paid to three emblematic elements of Jerez culture such as wine, the horse and flamenco.
- Fiesta del Marisco : The excellent products in the cost of Galicia attract thousands of people every year, making this event a reference and earning O Grove the nickname “seafood paradise.
Language and Cultural Immersion
Beyond the kitchen, students have the chance to deepen their cultural understanding by immersing themselves in the Spanish language and way of life. Language immersion programs and cultural activities provide invaluable insights into the country’s rich heritage, fostering a deeper connection with the local community.
Personal and Professional Growth
A culinary internship in Spain isn’t just about mastering culinary techniques; it’s a transformative journey of personal and professional growth.
From gaining confidence in the kitchen to developing a global perspective on food culture, interns emerge from their experience in Spain equipped with the skills, knowledge, and cultural insights to thrive in the competitive world of gastronomy.
You’re Just One Step Away!
Spain offers an authentic array of opportunities for culinary students and recent graduates seeking to elevate their skills, their careers, and personal growth. With its rich culinary heritage, world-renowned cuisine, and different internship opportunities, Spain welcomes aspiring chefs and gastronomy professionals to live a culinary adventure like no other. So, why wait?
The best part? All our Intern Programs in Spain include meals and housing.
To be eligible to participate you must meet the following criteria:
- You’re currently studying gastronomy or tourism OR
- Have a degree in gastronomy or tourism (and have graduated within the last 2 years)
- Speak Spanish proficiently
- You’re between the ages of 19 – 33
Explore the endless possibilities for you in the heart of Spanish gastronomy. Your next adventure begins here. Apply Now →
