What is the best culinary school in the United States?

I am considering going to culinary school. Right now, I have my sights set on the Le Cordon Bleu programs and their multiple locations. Any other programs I should be aware of?

Public Comments

1. The Culinary Institute of America, at Hyde Park.
2. Yes I have worked at the Western Culinary in Portland Oregon and the people who paid attention and did not sit around smoking and joking did real good.
3. CIA is good, the Le Cordon Bleu program is good (hubby did that one and has done well for himself)...but some of the schools have recently gotten the rap that they're just cranking enrollment for the money. Call some restaurants you respect and ask the staff what they think of the various schools/programs you're considering. That will let you know how much value the industry places on each school...and how much your degree will be worth. Culinary school is freaking expensive and you need to be able to get a good job, using in part the reputation of that school's training. Best wishes!!