Do you cook in my kitchen?

Yes, I will 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 equipment. I will then prepare your entrees on site. At the end of the day, I will leave your kitchen clean and filled with the aroma of good home cooking.

How long will you be here?

Since I will be preparing your customized meals on site from scratch, this process can take as few as 4 hours up to 8 depending on menu.

I am more than happy to work around your schedule.

Is it OK to stay and watch or help?

You are welcome to come in and visit for a few minutes. However, the fewer distractions the better. I require full use of the kitchen so that I may complete my job as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Do I heat the food?

Yes, any entrees that have been frozen should be defrosted overnight in your refrigerator and then heated. I will leave you with easy-to-follow heating instructions.

How much freezer space will I need?

That depends on the number and nature of the entrees you request. Generally, they do require adequate amount of space, and occasionally some refrigerator space. Food will be stored in the re-usable containers which I purchase before your first cook date. These will be yours to keep and have on hand when I return for another cook date.

Do I pay you in advance of each cooking date?

Yes. It is customary to pay a $150.00 deposit for the service prior to your cook date and the rest is paid on the day I cook for you. If you prefer, you can pay in full prior to your cook date.

What's the difference between a personal chef and a private chef?

A private chef is a full-time employee of the individual or family who often lives with the family and prepares up to 3 meals per day.

A personal chef is a small business owner who serves several clients (typically one per day) and provides multiple meals that are customized for each client's requests and requirements. These meals are packaged and stored so that clients may enjoy them at their leisure.

How often will I need your service?

I can help you determine how often you will want to schedule the personal chef service. I guarantee that it fits into your lifestyle without being an inconvenience.

What's the difference between dining out in a restaurant and hiring you to prepare my entrees - the cost seems to be about the same?

The difference is really in the personalized service and convenience in using a personal chef. Although the fees are per serving, they actually represent all of the components that make up everything I do. Everything from the initial in-person assessment, to making the menu, to shopping for the groceries, to cooking the meals, to packaging the meals, to cleaning your kitchen. It is all incorporated into the cost.

If you compare a personal chef service to a restaurant service, you will realize that to eat at a restaurant you

• Will leave the comfort of your home to drive to a restaurant, enduring the conditions that occur while driving - from traffic, to weather, then to parking.
• Will probably have to wait for a table.
• Are taking the chance that your server is having a bad day.
• Are not guaranteed to have allergies or special requests catered for.
• Risk ordering something the kitchen is out of.
• May be disappointed in what you ordered.

After eating your meal, you must pay for it, tip the server, and drive home. On the other hand, if you hire me, you can heat a wonderful entree that has been personally prepared for your taste and you can dine in the comfort of your own home.