Frequently Asked Questions
Q: The cost is roughly the same as what I would pay for an entrée in a restaurant... why is that?
The fee represents all components that make up the professional personal chef service. This includes a detailed assessment of your needs and dietary requirements, special diet research, menu planning, food shopping, meal preparation, and packaging and storing your selections. Think of it this way: You would buy groceries anyway. You're hiring us to cook your meals tailored to your specific tastes and dietary requirements.
Q: Do you cook in my kitchen?
A: Yes. On the cook date I will bring all the groceries along with my equipment and prepare your meals in the safety of your own kitchen.
Q: How should I prepare for the cook date?
A: Kitchen counters need to be cleared except for appliances and stationary items. All dishes must be washed. We will need space in the refrigerator to store the groceries while we cook. Then we'll use that space for cooked meal containers.
Q: Do I need to be home for the cook date?
A: That's up to you. When we initially book your first cook date we will discuss specifics such as house entry, pet arrangements, etc.
Q: How long does a cook date last?
A: It depends on how many and what type of meals we prepare. Usually it's 4 to 6 hours. We can make arrangements compatible with your schedule.
Q: Can I contact you before a cook date if I need something from the grocery store?
A: Sure, but please give us 24 hours notice. There is no extra charge for this service.
Q: Why do you use local food products when available?
A: Local food is fresher and therefore tastes better. It's great for the local economy and keeps small farms in business. It also helps to reduce pollution.
Q: What kind of containers will you use?
A: We will use whatever containers best suit your menu and how you would like to heat your meals. Many people like to use containers that match what they already own.
Q: What's the difference between "The Standard Service" and "Fresh Weekly Service"?
A: With the Standard Service we cook for you every two or four weeks. Meals are frozen for use throughout the month. With the Fresh Weekly Service we cook every week and meals can be stored in the refrigerator.
Q: How are my menus created?
A: Menus can be decided in two ways. We can email you the menu and if there is something you don't want we will change it. Or if you like we can email you options to choose from. Menus must be final no less than 2 days before your cook date.
Q: Are the meals fully cooked?
A: Meals are generally fully cooked except for some seafood and meat items which we leave partially cooked. This is to avoid overcooking when you heat your meals for serving. Sometimes we also prepare meals just up to the point of cooking. Two examples are marinating for the grill or preparing items for baking. In all cases we provide easy detailed heating instructions.
Q: Am I locked in to a certain amount of cook dates or can I opt out at any time?
A: When you initially sign up for one of our personal chef service plans we place you on our regular schedule. You can opt out at any time.
Q: Can I tweak the service if I am not completely satisfied?
A: Of course you can. The first few cook dates are a good time to make adjustments while we get to know what you are looking for in our service. Feel free to contact us regarding anything you feel will make our service more valuable to you.
Q: What if I can't find a service plan that suits my needs?
A: We will do whatever we can to customize a plan that works best for you.
Q: How does payment work?
A: It is customary in the Personal Chef industry to pay in advance for each cook date. Groceries are paid for after each cook date.
Q: Are you insured?
A: Yes. We have full liability insurance for Personal Chefs. We also have a Qualifying Certificate in Food Protection issued by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
Q: How often will I need your services?
A: We will determine how often you will need our services depending on your lifestyle and schedule.