I am going to be taking a one week class at the Institute of culinary education (formaly Peter Kumps) it is located at 50 west 23rd St. I am not familiar at all with the city and am looking for a hotel within walking distance. Also if you could recommend some places to eat in the area, that would be appreciated also.

Gee, it would be helpful to know which city it is that you're unfamiliar with.
NYC I assume.

OPPS ! You are correct. NYC.

This one is about a 20 minute walk straight up 6th avenue...almost a mile if you can do that.....

www.wshotel.com

This one's a block or two closer...
www.larchmonthotel.com

And here's one on 27th street, just a few blocks from the Institute....

www.gershwinhotel.com/rooms.html

Thanks I'll check those out.