To follow are frequently asked questions and answers modified from APPCA. If you have further questions, please contact me!
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 the client’s particular requests and requirements. These meals are packaged and stored so that the clients may enjoy them at their leisure in the future.
Do you cook in my kitchen?
Yes, we prepare your meals in the safety of your own kitchen. On our agreed upon cook date, we bring fresh ingredients for your meals along with our own pots, pans, and utensils, and prepare your entrees on site. At the end of the day, we leave your kitchen clean and full of the aroma of good home cooking.
How long will you be there?
I will be cooking several different entrees and side dishes from scratch, so it will take several hours. I can not predict exactly how many hours, as dishes change from week to week. 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 will be home that day. Is it okay if I watch – or help?
Because safety and professionalism are high priorities, it is important that a Personal Chef is able to work without distraction. Otherwise, there is a risk of forgotten ingredients or even cuts and burns.
When I cook, I get into a “flow” or “zone”. I can provide a much better service for you when my mind is focused on the cooking/cleaning/prepping process throughout the entire day.
However, I will be happy to schedule time before or after cooking, to address any concerns you may have.
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 flavor.
We 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 your request and the size of the containers, but it does generally require a considerable amount of freezer space. Efficient storage is one reason we prefer to select the appropriate uniform-shaped storage containers for our clients.
Can you use my containers?
Once again, uniform-sized containers take less storage space in your freezer. We will either use disposable containers, keep a set of glass containers in your home, or bring the appropriate containers for the entrees we are preparing each cook date on rotation. This will depend on which option forks best for you.
What type of side dishes do you prepare?
I prepare side dishes that complete the entrees you have selected, based on your taste and nutritional preferences. For example, a savory stew may be accompanied by a rice or polenta.
What if I want you to prepare additional side dishes as well?
I’ll be happy to provide that service for you; however, it will entail an additional fee.
The cost seems to be about what I would pay for an entree in a restaurant – why is that?
Fees represent all the components that make up a Personal Chef Service. For example, the assessment process that we complete to determine what you like to eat, how you like to eat, and whether or not you have allergies, sensitivities, or medically specific requirements. One of the features of a Personal Chef Service is that these factors will be taken into account when preparing your entrees. Other features include customizing our recipes to reflect your wants and requests, submitting meal selections for your approval, grocery shopping, and coming to your home to prepare your entrees in the safety of your own kitchen, plus packaging, labeling, and storing your entrees.
A Personal Chef essentially brings the restaurant to you, but with customized meal plans, no driving and no tipping. You can eat in your pajamas if you want to.
Do I pay ahead of each cook 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?
This will depend on how many entrees you order and how many evenings you eat at home. 3-5 entrees are a general rule of thumb.
How often will we need your service?
I’ll be happy to help you determine just how often you will want to schedule my Personal Chef Service to best serve your needs. We’ll make sure it supports your busy lifestyle without putting any pressure on you.
Can I order half the regular service?
I wish I could make that available to you, but the service does not work that way. For this to be a profitable business for me, I can not take the same amount of cooking time and produce half the amount of food. It takes the same amount of planning, shopping, and preparation time to cook 10 portions of food as it does for 20 portions.
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