5 Spanish hotels awarded with 3 Michelin Keys
29 April, 2024Another restaurant ‘made in Sant Pol’ in the Michelin Guide
20 May, 2024Nestled on the sun-drenched coast of northeast Spain, Sant Pol School of Hospitality and Culinary Management (EUHT StPOL) is not just a place of learning; it’s a gateway to the vast world of hospitality and gastronomy. Situated a stone’s throw from Barcelona, a city renowned for its rich culinary heritage and bustling tourism industry, the school offers its students unparalleled access to some of the sector’s most influential figures and companies. All EUHT StPOL’s academic programs are not only practical and hands-on class oriented but also include various professional field-trips to nearby stakeholders of the industry. From Michelin-starred restaurants or 5-star hotels to kitchen product suppliers, breweries or supply distribution centers. All of them add up to provide an overall look from within the sector.
Connecting with Equipment & Food Suppliers
Understanding the backbone of the hospitality industry starts with knowing the tools of trade. Students have the opportunity to visit leading equipment suppliers, gaining insights into the latest technological advancements and how they can be leveraged to enhance customer experiences. For those students aiming at starting their own culinary business, having a glimpse beyond what they learn in our campus kitchens is key to widen the possibilities of their future professional projects. For instance, at Friolisa the see first-hand, the food chain of basic processed food and its applications while at Complet they discover the latest appliances, furniture and facilities for professional buffet and kitchens.
Fine-dining and excellence: Michelin-starred restaurants
The Michelin star, a symbol of culinary excellence, is within reach for students who are exposed to the inner workings of some of Barcelona and Girona’s most esteemed restaurants. By stepping into these kitchens and dining rooms, students witness the meticulous attention to detail, the passion, and the creativity that define the world’s best chefs and restaurateurs. This firsthand experience not only inspires but also offers a tangible connection to the pinnacle of gastronomic success. Visits to El Celler de Can Roca***, Sant Pau*** or Via Veneto* have been recurrent to our students of the Master’s Degree in Culinary Arts, Innovation and Kitchen Management.
Luxury Hospitality: 5-Star Hotels
Imagine walking through the halls of the Intercontinental Barcelona, Majestic Barcelona, Arts Barcelona or Atzavara hotels, where luxury meets impeccable service. These visits to five-star hotels offer students a glimpse into the high standards of the luxury hotel industry, from guest relations to behind-the-scenes operations. The experience is invaluable for those aspiring to carve out a career in hotel management, providing a clear vision of what it takes to excel in the upper echelons of hospitality. Moreover, given EUHT StPOL’s extended professional network, usually the visits are hosted by Alumni currently holding managerial positions in these hotels.
Farm to Fork: Distribution and Production Centers
Field trips to places like Montseny Brewery, El Nacional Barcelona gastronomic space, or Alta Alella Winery bridge the gap between agricultural production and the dining table, showcasing the importance of quality ingredients in gastronomy. Students learn about the journey of products from their source to final consumers, highlighting the role of distribution centers and local producers, key stakeholders in sustaining the food and beverage hospitality industry. These visits give an insight not only to the hospitality industry but also to business management and logistics. For instance, some of the skills acquired during the Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Business Management allow the students to explore professional paths in logistic centers such as the Coca-Cola Europacific’s largest distribution hub or Mercabarna. As for the latter, it is the largest wholesale fresh market in Europe with +600 companies specialized in the distribution, preparation, import and export of food products.
International venues: Fòrum Gastronòmic and Alimentaria
Participating in top industry fairs such as the Fòrum Gastronòmic and Alimentaria opens a window to the latest trends, products, and innovations in the gastronomy world. For our students, these events are not just learning opportunities—they are a chance to network with professionals, understand market dynamics, and envision their future roles in shaping the industry.
These professional visits, connect students with the reality of the profession, providing a solid foundation for a successful career in the dynamic world of hospitality and tourism. Through these experiences, students are not just preparing for the future; they are stepping into it, armed with knowledge, connections, and a passion for excellence.