Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a Personal Chef?

A personal chef is a professional that prepares 5 days of customized homemade freshly cooked meals for you in your kitchen one time per week. My Personal Chef services includes a complimentary consultation, customized menu planning, grocery shopping, preparation, storage, heating instructions, and a guarantee that your kitchen will be cleaner than I found it when I leave! We agree on a set day and time every week and on that day I prepare home cooked meals for you to enjoy. You have the option to either enjoy the meals right away or freeze them. 

Q: Are groceries included in the pricing of your packages?

No, groceries are not included in the pricing. Clients request different types of food; for that reason I do not have a set price for groceries. My promise to you is that I will practice the same philosophy that I have when I shop for my own family. I will read labels, check cost per unit, and determine the best valued products before I purchase them for you. If you have a specific food budget, I will make sure that I create your custom menu accordingly. Average cost of groceries based on the 5 meal x 4 portion package is $100-$150 per week. Pantry items such as olive oil and dried spices and herbs are always complimentary.  

Q: Are there additional fees?

Yes, there are additional fees for storage containers.

There is a onetime fee for the storage containers of your choice. I will purchase the containers for you which will be billed on your first invoice.  I prefer to use glass containers that are freezer, oven, and microwave safe. You wash the containers and I reuse them on our next cook date. I provide my own pots, pans, cooking utensils, and eco-friendly cleaning supplies at no cost to you.

Q: Do I have to sign a contract?

I require a signed payment agreement prior to my first cook date which lists my payment and cancellation policies.

Q: How does billing work?

A $150 deposit is required 3 weeks prior to your cook date. The $150 deposit is credited to your invoice and the remaining balance is due within 3 calendar days. For first time clients the remaining balance is due at the end of your first event or cook date.

Q: What makes your Personal Chef Service stand out among the rest? Why should I pick you?

First and foremost my passion for food! I have been cooking and creating recipes since well before I was 10 years old. I have travelled the world, lived in Europe, as well as the Pacific Northwest, The Northeast, NYC, and Florida which has afforded me exposure to so many wonderful cuisines.   I continuously explore new foods and recipes by trying new techniques, reading, and researching. I have a true respect for organic locally grown produce and meats, and I also have experience in organic gardening. In addition to standard menus, I am able to create custom menus for specialty diets.

Secondly, I am the only Personal Chef Service in the Tampa Bay area that will drive to your home for a complimentary consultation for any of the services we provide. Most Personal Chefs take the "personal" out of it by asking you to fill out a dietary questionnaire online. I could never provide you a customized service without meeting with you in person.  I make my service personal, because I believe food is so personal.  This gives us the opportunity to cover every detail before your cook date, so that you know exactly what to expect going forward.

Q: Why don't you have sample menus on your website?

I personally customize every menu for my clients based on what is best for them. I do not have a blanket menu that I use, which makes my service completely personalized.