General Questions

What is the difference between a formal dinner party and catering?

A formal dinner party consists of a 3-5 course meal, served in courses and plated formally. Some people refer to this as "restaurant style" serving as the serving method is virtually the same. Catering, or an informal dinner party, allow the guests to help themselves to as much or as little food as they would like. Food is either served buffet style in chafing dishes or "family-style" at the table.

What kind of ingredients do you use?

We look for only locally sourced, free range and organic ingredients. We strived to use only the highest quality ingredients that are allow free range, free of hormones, pesticides and antibiotics.

What areas do you serve?

We serve 25 miles within 90039. These cities include: Malibu, Agoura Hills, Calabasas, West Hills, Canoga Park, Sherman Oaks, Tarzana, Studio City, Burbank, Van Nuys, Chatsworth, Hollywood, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice, Bel Air, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Culver City, Silverlake etc.

Do you serve outside your service area?

Yes. However, a small travel surcharge will be added to your total.

Personal Chef Questions

Who needs a personal chef?

Any individual who believes in the importance of having fresh custom homemade meals ready at their convenience. Most people hire a personal chef because their diet is too difficult to cook for or they do not have the time to cook. Business professionals, expecting or new parents, busy working families, seniors, people with specific diets, people recovering from illness etc. are all great candidates for personal chefs. If you are tired of fast food, the drive-thru, commercial frozen dinners or take-out, a personal chef may be a great investment for you and your health!

What is the difference between a private and personal chef?

Private chefs are employed full time by one individual or family and often lives in their home and prepares up to three meals per day. Personal chefs serve several clients, usually one per day. They also provide multiple services that are custom designed for the clients’ particular requests and dietary requirements.

Where do you go for groceries?

This varies from client to client. I usually visit various organic grocery stores to find the finest and highest quality ingredients. If you prefer a certain store or market I will do our best to accommodate you.

Do I have to eat organic? What if I cant afford it?

No, you do not. During your consultation you will be given the option for organic or non-organic groceries. While I strongly believe in using locally sourced ingredients, conventional groceries are available. I will work with you to create a grocery budget you are comfortable with.

How do you know what I like in my diet?

Your diet is the first order of business. In the initial consultation, you and I will go over what you would like from your personal chef service, your likes, dislikes, personal preferences, dietary restrictions, allergies etc. I may also ask you to fill out a small client questionnaire, this is done to completely personalize and customize your service.

What is included in your meal plan?

Each service package includes: Initial consultation, menu building, grocery costs, grocery shopping, prep-work, cooking, kitchen clean-up, packaging, labeling, storage and handling instructions

How far in advance should I reserve a date?

It is recommended you reserve time as soon as possible. One month to three weeks in advance is generally preferred to reserve your cook date and make proper arrangements with a personal chef.

What is your cancelation policy?

For all personal chef services 72 hours advance notice is required before you must cancel. If you do cancel within 72 hours your deposit is forfeited.

Is there anything I can do prior to your visit?

Have your kitchen counters free of clutter, your sink cleared and have space made in your refrigerator and freezer.

How long will your services take?

Depending on the number of entrees personal chef services can take anywhere from 2-8 hours. I'm happy to accommodate your schedule in any way I can. Times do vary depending on the complexity of the menu and clients’ preferences.

Is it okay if I watch or help?

I will have a very specific production schedule they must adhere to to produce the best quality food in a timely manner. It is best for me not be uninterrupted while cooking so I can produce safe, delicious, high quality food for you. However, I would be happy to chat/discuss with you before or after your personal chef service.