Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

What is the difference between a Personal Chef and a Private Chef?

A private chef is employed by one individual or family full time, and is often "living in", and preparing up to 3 meals per day.

A Personal Chef serves several clients, usually one per day, and provides multiple meals that are custom designed for a client's particular requests and requirements. These meals are packaged and stored so that the client may enjoy them at their leisure in the future.

Do you cook in my kitchen?

Yes. I'll prepare your meals in the safety of your own kitchen. On our agreed upon cooking date, I will bring the fresh ingredients for your meals along with my own pots, pans and utensils, and prepare your entrees on site. At the end of the day I leave your kitchen clean, and full of the aroma of good home cooking!

How long will you be here?

I'll be cooking several entrees and side dishes from scratch, so it will take several hours. I cannot say exactly how many hours, however I am most willing to work with your schedule or situation, and we can make arrangements in advance so that my cooking date is compatible with your schedule.

I'll be home that day. Is it okay if I watch - or help?

While I respect that you'd like to assist the cooking, I'd prefer if you'd sit back and let me do the cooking. This is your time to relax. Also, I am able to cook much more quickly and safely without interruptions.

Do I heat the food?

Yes. Any entrees that have been stored for you in your freezer should be defrosted overnight in your refrigerator, and heated, to be enjoyed at the peak of their flavor. I will be happy to leave you easy-to-follow heating instructions for each entree.

How much freezer space do you need?

It depends on the number of meals you request, and the sizes of the containers, but it does generally require a considerable amount of freezer space. I can take a look at your freezer to see just how much room you have available. Efficient storage is one of the reasons I prefer to select the appropriate size, uniform storage containers for my clients.

Can you use my containers?

Again, uniform size containers take less storage space in your freezer, and I will bring the appropriate containers for the entrees I am preparing each cooking date. If you will save the containers for me after you have already enjoyed your entree, I will take those back with me each cooking date, so I will actually be rotating containers in and out of your kitchen regularly.

Why types of side dishes do you prepare?

I prepare side dishes that complete the entree you selected. For instance, if you have ordered a beautiful savory stew entree, I will prepare a rice or Polenta side dish to be enjoyed with the stew. I always allow my clients to select and prepare their own green vegetables since people have such strong preferences in that area.

What if I want you to prepare additional dishes as well?

I'd be happy to provide that service for you, however, it will incur an additional fee.

The cost seems to be about what I would pay for an entree in a restaurant - why is that?

Although fees are expressed in a per entree or per serving fee, they actually represent all of the components that make up a professional personal chef service. For example, the assessment process that I complete to determine what you like to eat, and how you like to eat, and whether or not you have allergies, sensitivities or medically specific requirements is one of the features. That, along with customizing recipes to reflect your wants and requests, submitting meal selections for your approval, the grocery shopping, coming to your home to prepare your entrees in the safety of your own kitchen, plus packaging, labeling and storing your entrees are more features.

If you were to compare a personal chef service to restaurant service you could think of it this way. For a restaurant, you must drive to get there, possibly wait for a table, take a chance that your server isn't having a good day, and if you have allergies or special requests you don't always have the guarantee that they will be honored, since most entrees are "assembly line" ready in the kitchen. After eating your meal you must pay for it, tip the server and get back in your vehicle to drive home.

If you have a Personal Chef Service, you can heat a beautiful entree that has been prepared specifically for your palate and requirements, and eat it in the comfort of your own home. You can even enjoy it curled up on the couch in your "jammies" if you want.

Do I pay you ahead of each cooking date?

Yes, it is customary to pay for the service in advance of your cooking date. If you like you may leave me a check for the upcoming cooking date on the day I am cooking.

How long will the food last us?

Depending on how many entrees you order, and how many evenings you eat at home we can determine approximately how long your meals will last. If you travel for business, or entertain in restaurants during the week, or just enjoy eating out on occasion, the meals will take your further than if you eat in each night.

How often will we need your service?

I'll be happy to determine just how often you will want to schedule my Personal Chef Service to best serve your needs. I'll make sure it supports your busy lifestyle without putting any pressure on you.

Can I order half of the regular service?

At this time, it is not possible to provide that service as it takes the same amount of time for planning, shopping, preparation and cooking.