Dining at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park without a reservation can be easier than you think, if you know some secrets.

The CIA is known for its world-class dining. Students hone their skills under the instruction of highly skilled and experienced chefs from all over the world and their class projects become a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience for those who visit. On campus there are four restaurants that require advance reservations. Although reservations for the most popular times book up weeks in advance, there are actually still ways to get in, even at the last minute.

Although reservations for the most popular times book up weeks in advance, there are actually still ways to get in, even at the last minute.

The Bocuse is a modern twist on a traditional French restaurant. Using cutting edge cooking techniques, students prepare world-class dishes paired with a breathtaking wine list. Although reservations for Fridays and Saturdays can sometimes be elusive, weekday evenings sometimes have same-day availability. Another thing many visitors aren't aware of is that Bocuse also offers lunch on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11:30am to 1pm. Visitors can usually make a same-day reservation for lunch or even just walk right in.

Rustic Italian food is always on the menu at Ristorante Caterina de’ Medici. Because of the popularity of Italian food, this can be one of the most sought-after reservations. However, many are not aware that there is a whole separate room in the restaurant called the Al Forno. This separate spot is open from 11am to 6pm and serves more casual food like pizzas and panini. Of course, you won't be able to order from the full menu, but there is usually no problem grabbing a table and it also offers some of the restaurant's best desserts.

American Bounty focuses on seasonal dishes utilizing local ingredients from the Hudson Valley. If you haven't been there, it's a personal favorite of our staff and a dining experience that is unlike any other.  While there's also a high demand for reservations at American Bounty, another option was just made available with the opening of The Tavern at American Bounty. This new, drop-in dining experience is now open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to close. The Tavern's menu includes dishes like Grilled Salmon Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette, the Double Cheddar Burger and Jim's Chopped Salad with Chicken, Bacon, and Avocado. Also, fans of American Bounty will be glad to know that the Tavern is also serving their famous Parker House Rolls. Visitors can also enjoy some incredible desserts like Vanilla Bean Cheesecake, Coconut Custard, and Dark Chocolate Ganache.

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Pangea is the school's pop-up restaurant which can close and re-open as a whole new dining experience depending on when you visit. This is another restaurant with a little-known lunch service that can be pretty easy to get into.

Of course, there are also a couple of other spots to dine on campus where reservations aren't accepted. The Apple Pie Bakery is located right inside Roth Hall next to American Bounty offering incredible pastries, breakfasts and lunch items. A pro-tip is to get there before Noon when most bus tours descend upon the restaurant and you most likely won't wait very long to get served.

For those who are more adventurous, you could also make your way deeper into the campus and blend in with the student body at The Egg. This state-of-the-art student dining hall isn't advertised as being open to the public, but everyone is welcome. There are plenty of food options, including another pop-up restaurant that's run by the graduating class. Its menu is always changing and features some of the most exciting culinary items available on campus. The Egg also happens to be the home of the on-campus brewery, and is where you can fill up a grower to bring home.

So if you're not a planner, there are still plenty of ways for Hudson Valley locals to experience the Culinary Institute of America. Bon Appetite.

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