Why Learn Foreign Languages for Culinary Success

Culinary is not just about being able to cook. Exceptional cooking skills still remain to be the main ingredient for success, but it’s no longer enough. Fluency in foreign languages is also essential for culinary success. That’s because restaurant owners are now looking to employ bilingual or multilingual chefs.

This may seem discouraging for a newbie chef. But there’s no denying the benefits being bilingual/ multilingual can give them.

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Why Chefs Should Learn Foreign Languages for Culinary Success

• Standard culinary terms are based in foreign languages

Almost all the terms in culinary are in foreign languages like French and Italian. That alone is a good reason why you need to learn a foreign language as a chef. Understanding foreign kitchen terms kitchen will strengthen your culinary foundation, especially when it comes to learning international cuisines.

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• It can boost your confidence

Having confidence is crucial for success. That is true, not just in the culinary world, but in any other career. And being bilingual/ multilingual can help boost your confidence.

• It works both ways

Learning a foreign language while learning culinary helps you excel in both areas. The former helps you understand culinary terms better, making you a better chef. At the same time, you get to practice your language skills when you use your vocabulary during culinary practicums.

• Enhances your memory

Several studies have shown that learning a new language improves brain functions. It strengthens one’s ability to focus, process, and memorize information. These skills are needed in a fast-paced environment like a restaurant.

It is because the brain uses the same cognitive functions when you memorize grammatical rules and vocabulary words, and when you memorize ingredients and recipes.

Take the first step to culinary success

Learning foreign languages is essential for culinary success. When you’re a bilingual/ multilingual, you get more career-related travel opportunities. You also have higher chances of advancing your career in this field. If you decide to take advantage of the benefits of being multilingual, there are a lot of ways you can become one.

You can attend classes at language schools. You can also enroll in language courses online so you can learn in the comfort of your home. If you’re not ready to splurge on lessons just yet, you can take advantage of the free trials that some language learning apps that offer.

Whatever method you choose, keep in mind that learning foreign languages is a great investment.