ABOUT GGRACF.
The American Culinary Federation, Inc. (ACF), a professional organization for chefs and cooks, was founded in 1929 in New York City by three chefs’ organizations: the Société Culinaire Philanthropique, the Vatel Club and the Chefs de Cuisine Association of America.
The Greater Grand Rapids American Culinary Federation (GGRACF) is a dynamic community of culinary professionals dedicated to excellence in the culinary arts. Our chapter serves the Greater Grand Rapids area, bringing together chefs, cooks, educators, and enthusiasts passionate about the culinary industry.
GGRACF is a leader in offering educational resources, training, apprenticeship, competitions and programmatic accreditation designed to enhance professional growth for all current and future chefs and pastry chefs.
WHERE HEART MEETS PASSION ·
WHERE HEART MEETS PASSION ·
Our activities include culinary competitions, educational seminars, networking events, community outreach initiatives, and more.
By joining our chapter, members gain access to a vibrant culinary community, valuable resources, and opportunities for growth and recognition within the industry.
We are committed to promoting culinary excellence, supporting our members' professional development, and contributing to the culinary landscape of the Greater Grand Rapids area.
Join us in celebrating the art and craft of cooking while building lasting connections with fellow culinary enthusiasts.
Membership Levels
Membership categories are designed to follow your professional culinary career. Choose the designation that best describes you.
-
A Culinarian with a minimum of three years full-time employment in the culinary profession.
-
A Culinarian is an individual not involved in the management or supervision of staff, with a minimum of 6 months full time employment. A Culinarian should be pursuing on-the-job training and experience necessary to advance to the membership level of Professional Culinarian. A culinarian membership is subject to a limit of five years.
-
A Student Culinarian is a student or apprentice with less than two years full-time employment, a student enrolled in an accredited postsecondary culinary education program, or a registered apprentice as defined by the ACF apprenticeship training program. A student membership is subject to a limit of four years.
-
A Junior Culinarian is a high-school student between 16 and 18 years of age.
-
An Associate Member is a representative of a group, company or corporation providing products or services to the culinary profession.
-
An Allied Member is an individual employed in a field related to the culinary profession (such as dietitians, nutritionists, and restaurant managers or owners).
-
A Property Membership is an affordable option for companies who wish to enroll their employees. A minimum of six culinary staff must be enrolled to receive a discount. Each employee may join a local chapter or become an ACF national member.
-
A Culinary Enthusiast Member is an individual that is not employed in a culinary field, but has a passion for the culinary arts. Individuals who enjoy cooking, baking, dining at independent restaurants, or who may have their favorite chef on speed dial should join as an Enthusiast.
-
ACF offers military personnel the benefits of a membership at a reduced price.
Chapter Membership at a Glance!
Who are our members?
While aspiring culinarians make up a majority of our member-base, we are open and accepting any new members looking to take their love for the culinary arts to the next level.
Interested in becoming a member?
Get in touch below!
“As a growing professional in the culinary space, the connections I’ve been able to make and the opportunities in front of me… It’s immeasurable. If you’re on the fence about becoming a member—
JUST DO IT!”
— Alania P.
We love a good time!
Some of our events are exclusive to members, but many are open and free to the public! Join us— we’d love to see you and connect you with our awesome community!