Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a private chef and a Personal Chef?
A private chef is employed by a family or individual to cook all the meals in their house and generally lives in as well. A Personal Chef cooks for many clients, usually one per day, preparing multiple meals for consumption through out the week.

Can you cook my food and deliver it to me?
No, that is not possible. Health Department regulations prohibit that practice. All Personal Chefs cook in the client’s kitchen for health safety reasons.

How Long Will You Be at My House?
I will be cooking all your meals from scratch, so cooking time will vary depending on your food choices and cooking times. I will generally be in your kitchen 3-6 hours.

Do I need to be home while you are there? If I am home that day, will it be okay if I watch or help?
You do not need to be home. Most of my clients are at work. I will also be at work in your kitchen! Your kitchen will be my “office” for the day and I will need to focus on the tasks at hand. Unfortunately, extended conversation or many interruptions will slow down the cooking process considerably and will interfere with the quality and timing of my cooking. Additionally, distractions may cause me to get burned, or cut myself. In order to prepare your meals to the high standards you expect I will need to work alone.

How will my meals be packaged? Can you use my containers?
At the assessment interview we will discuss your preferences in packaging and portions. Before your first cook date I will shop for the containers you prefer. It is important that I use uniform sized containers for your meals as they take up less space in your fridge and freezer and allow me to best store your meals in the proper portion sizes.

I have herbs and spices at my house, can you use those?
My basic chef fee includes the cost of pantry items such as herbs, spices, oils, and vinegars. You pay for perishables such as fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, fish and cheeses and for pastas, grains and nuts.

The cost seems to be about what I would pay for a meal in a restaurant, why is that?
The price per meal is calculated by taking into consideration all the components of a Personal Chef Service; the assessment process, researching menu options to your specific guidelines, grocery shopping, meal preparation, packaging, labeling and storing your meals. You are paying for a very valuable service so you and your family can “dine” in the comfort of your own home!

You deserve a Kitchen Vacation!  Call me to schedule a FREE assessment appointment.    909-538-3521