Who uses a personal chef?
Many different people use personal chefs these days. For example, families in which both parents work; couples who both work and get home too late to prepare anything; people who enjoy restaurant quality food without having to go out; people on special diets who worry about going out to a restaurant and not being able to stick to their dietary needs…and of course people who don’t like to cook.
Can I afford it!
Yes! When you add up the time and money spent on planning, shopping, cooking, and cleaning up, the price is quite reasonable. The cost per meal is comparable to eating at a restaurant, but with our services, you will be getting individually customized meals with your specific dietary needs in mind. You will eat in the comfort of your own home, at your convenience, and you will have all the extra time saved to do the things you love!
What is the difference between a Personal Chef and a Private Chef?
Personal Chefs cook for several people. Every week or two, the Personal Chef will plan a menu, shop for the groceries, go to the client’s home, prepare several meals at one time in the client’s kitchen, then package and store those meals in the refrigerator or freezer and provide the client with heating instructions. Finally, the Personal Chef will clean up the kitchen .Private Chefs typically work for one client. They prepare meals that are consumed at the time they are prepared. There is no heating involved.
Can you prepare meals for people on special diets?
Absolutely! Although we aren’t nutritionists, we can use information from your doctor, nutritionist, personal trainer, or diet plan. We also customize dishes for food allergies.
If I want healthy low fat meals, can you do that for me?
Without a doubt. Clients can choose many different healthy menu options, including entrees, even vegetarian meals are no problem. All of these dishes are delicious and most importantly, portion controlled.
Does the personal chef have to come to my house?
Yes, by law the personal chef must cook out of the clients home, business or other kitchen provided, nless the personal chef has a commercially licensed facility.
Is it safe for someone to cook for me in my house?
Yes, we are fully insured and have food handler cards..
Do I need to supply pots and pans?
No, We’ll bring most of our own kitchen equipment. But if we should use any of yours we’ll be sure to clean them and put them back where they were stored. The main things we’ll need is a clean kitchen and plenty of counter space, a stovetop , oven , and most importantly room in a clean refrigerator or freezer!
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, contact us about a gift certificate.
How long does it take for the initial interview?
Usually no more than an hour and a half. We will then either by email or fax go over choices for your menu.
How much does it cost?
Price does vary from menu to menu. But generally the cost for two adults ranges from $150 - $350 for a weeks worth of meals. We will also provide at a lower cost meals for children for the week (kids are crazy for our homemade macaroni and cheese and homemade chicken nuggets!). We also offer a one pot option see our pricing page for details.
How is the food stored?
The meals are stored in freezer and microwavable safe containers in single servings or in a Pyrex casserole dish and you just reheat it according to the instructions we leave. The meals are prepared so they can be put in the freezer and all you need to do is either the night before or in the morning put them in the refrigerator to be defrosted.
How much food do you cook?
We’ll prepare one entrée, a salad or soup of your choice and two side dishes for each meal.
How long does a service last?
Services can be once a month, once every two weeks, 2 times a week or daily service.
Do you cook breakfast and lunch?
Sure! Arrangements can be made for both breakfast and lunch menus at an additional cost.
Who comes to cook?
All the cooking is done by myself (chef Ricky Joe) and (my sous chef) chef Doug who usually accompanies me and assists me in preparing the meals.
I have pets is that OK?
Sure as long as they aren’t aggressive with strangers. Generally pets aren’t any problem and perhaps he or she might want to sample a home doggy treat.
Will you need any help while at my home?
No. In fact, in order for us to concentrate on creating the best meals possible, it would be best to have the kitchen to ourselves. However, we are happy to arrange our services according to your schedule and what works best for you.
Do I need to be home when you’re cooking?
No, all we need is access to the kitchen on the cooking day.
How long will you be at my house doing the actual cooking?
Generally 4 to 6 hours on a pre-arranged day will be all the time we need. Imagine how wonderful your home will smell that day!
Do you specialize in any type of cooking?
We enjoy cooking all types of cuisine but our specialties are Pennsylvania Dutch, Amish, southern cooking and other types of home style comfort food.
When is the payment due for the service?
Payment is expected 7 days prior to your cook day. You may pay in two convenient ways either by using Paypal our credit card processor or if paying by personal check we need the check 7 days prior to your cooking session.
How do I heat my meals?
Each dinner will be labeled with a description of what the package contains and easy, detailed instructions for heating.
What is involved in the complimentary consultation?
This is when we will first get to know each other. We’ll ask about your likes and dislikes, health and dietary concerns, and any food allergies. This allows us to create a personalized menu geared toward your tastes and personal preferences.
Do you do small parties?
Yes, we do both cocktail parties and dinner parties. See our dinner party page.
Additional questions please drop us an email or call us at 503-828-5329