The aroma of sizzling burgers, the enticing sight of colorful poke bowls, and the symphony of sizzling churros; all came together to create a flavorful experience at the Academy of Culinary Arts Cambodia (ACAC) Open Day on November 18, 2023. From 9 am to 1 pm, the ACAC opened its doors to over 200 enthusiastic visitors, offering an immersive journey into the world of culinary arts and hospitality.
The event aimed to provide a glimpse into the ACAC’s curriculum, the diverse career prospects in the culinary industry, and an opportunity for attendees to engage with students and chefs while relishing delectable dishes and exploring state-of-the-art facilities.
One of the highlights of the day was the guided tour led by knowledgeable ACAC students, where visitors embarked on a food trail, navigating through different classrooms and kitchen sections while indulging their taste buds with an array of mouthwatering cuisines.
After the tour, Open Day visitor San Raksmey excitedly said “I was so inspired by the students’ stories and the experiences they shared while tasting all this delicious food. It’s clear to me that the Academy fosters not just culinary skills but a real sense of community among aspiring chefs.”
The stations were a testament to the culinary diversity and expertise fostered at ACAC:
Burger Station: Offering succulent patties and an array of fresh toppings, allowing guests to craft their personalized burgers.
Hand-made Chinese-Style Noodle Station: Showcasing the artistry of noodle-making, offering visitors a taste of authentic Chinese flavors.
Poke Bowl Station: Vibrant and fresh, this station boasted an assortment of colorful ingredients and fresh fish, creating visually appealing and delicious bowls.
Churros Station: A celebration of sweetness, where crispy churros were served with tempting dips and coatings.
Crepes Station: A delightful stop offering both savory and sweet crepes, showcasing the versatility of this French delicacy.
Pancake Soufflé and Breadstick Station: Tempting attendees with fluffy soufflés and crispy breadsticks, prepared with finesse.
Colorful Cake Pop Station: A visual treat, offering bite-sized cake pops adorned with vibrant colors and flavors.
As the tour drew to a close, visitors were encouraged to step into the shoes of a chef by donning chef attire and participating in a lively photo challenge for social media engagement. With creativity at play, participants posed with their culinary-inspired attire and kitchen equipment, vying for the most likes. The top three entries with the highest likes on social media platforms will be rewarded with a memorable dinner experience at ACAC, further enhancing the engagement and excitement among attendees.
The ACAC Open Day not only provided a tantalizing gastronomic experience but also served as a platform for aspiring chefs and hospitality enthusiasts to gain insights into the intricacies of the culinary world. It fostered an environment where passion met expertise, showcasing the commitment of ACAC towards nurturing culinary talent and promoting the art of hospitality.
Next Intake: A Gateway to Culinary Excellence
As the day unfolded, the Academy proudly announced that the next intake for aspiring chefs is set to begin in December 2023. Prospective students were encouraged to explore the world of culinary arts and take the first step towards their passion by enrolling in the upcoming program.
Prospective student Rith Ream said: “Enrolling for the upcoming semester really is a no-brainer for me after today. The talent and dedication here are palpable, and I can’t wait to be part of their team.”
The ACAC’s Open Day event on November 18, 2023, was more than just a showcase of culinary expertise; it was a celebration of passion, creativity, and the art of transforming raw ingredients into culinary masterpieces. With a successful event behind them, the Academy eagerly looks forward to welcoming a new cohort of aspiring chefs and culinary enthusiasts into its vibrant community, where the journey to culinary excellence begins.
The enrollment process is now open, offering a chance for individuals to turn their culinary dreams into a reality.
How to apply: https://acac.edu.kh/application-process/