Why hire a personal chef?
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There are many answers to this question. Maybe you are too busy to take the time to plan your meals. You may find yourself eating fast food too often. Or maybe you're a new mom and could use the extra help to make sure your family is eating nutritious, healthy meals. Seniors or those recovering from surgery may appreciate this service. And there are those who want to explore the experience of a light, tasty diet of vegetarian and seafood fare, but don't know where to start.
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What is the difference between a personal chef and a private chef?
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A private chef is employed by one individual or family full-time, often "lives in" and prepares up to 3 meals a day. As your personal chef, I will provide dinners that are custom designed to your particular requests and requirements, for two to five evenings, often all prepared in one day. These meals are packaged and stored so that your family may enjoy them at their leisure.
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What kinds of food can you prepare?
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I specialize in seafood and vegetarian fare that is light yet full of flavor, but I can accommodate a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. My passion has been studying the cuisines of the world, and have amassed a library of about 400 cookbooks and reference books about food. I have prepared meals inspired by the following cuisines: Indian, Italian, Greek, Persian, Turkish, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Spanish, French, Mexican, Brazilian, Japanese, Korean, Moroccan, Eastern European and Russian. If you have favorite seafood or vegetarian recipes, I would be happy to prepare them for you. Or, if you will give me a list of preferences, I can surprise you with new tastes every day that meet your requirements. Dinner could be a culinary adventure!
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Do you have to cook in my kitchen?
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Yes.
I'd rather cook for you in my own kitchen. There would be so many advantages. I would know where everything is kept and how it works, and wouldn't have to schlep so much equipment around. But that would be considered catering and the law requires an approved commercial kitchen for catering. I am fully covered by personal chef liability insurance and would be happy to discuss the details with you.
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How long will it take?
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Since everything is made from scratch it generally takes about 4-6 hours to prepare your selected entrees and the accompanying side dishes. It's hard to say exactly how many hours since each menu is different, but I will be happy to make arrangements in advance so that my cooking fits into your schedule.
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What if I do not have the necessary kitchen equipment?
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Not a problem. I will bring my own equipment, including knives, pots, pans, grinder, food processor, trash bags and even dish detergent. I only ask that the kitchen be neat when I arrive, and that there is room in the frig/freezer for your meals. I will leave your kitchen as clean (if not cleaner) as it was when I got there.
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Will you cater a party?
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Yes, give me a call or drop me an email describing the event, and I'll work up an estimate for you. Keep in mind the cooking will be done in your kitchen. Your house will smell like you've been cooking all day when your guests arrive! I will leave instructions for reheating everything and clean up your kitchen before I go.
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How affordable is your personal chef service?
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When you consider the cost of groceries, the time to plan a variety of healthy meals, shop, cook, and clean up, you'll find the pricing to be quite affordable. Also consider the food you clear out of the refrigerator that no one got around to eating--not to mention the money spent on eating out at restaurants and fast food establishments. There's no driving, waiting, babysitting costs, tips, or servers to deal with! You and your family can dine in the comfort of your own home on healthy food, tailored to your specifications. Click here to view the different plans offered and their costs.
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How will my meals be packaged?
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Your meals are packaged according to your preferences: family-style, for two, or individually in either disposable or reusable containers. I can use containers you already own (if they are appropriate for the safe storage of your meals), or I can purchase some for you. Each dish will include heating instructions based on your preferred method: oven or microwave. You can also request grill-ready dishes. I will prepare the items and leave them marinating in your frig, ready to throw on the grill when you get home.
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What about gift certificates?
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Yes, they are available! This is a great way to let someone know you care. Maybe you've noticed a dear friend is working too hard. Or that your mom or dad could use some help to ensure that they are eating well. Maybe your sister just had a baby, or your cousin just got married. Baby showers, housewarmings, anniversaries, birthdays...almost any occasion! Let us know you are interested and we'll get back to you right away.
Click here to contact us.
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What if I prefer poultry and red meat to a diet of vegetables and fish?
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My passion is traditional ethnic cuisines, in which meat does not play as important a role as it does in the typical American diet. Most of my dishes include lots of fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains with optional seafood or other animal proteins. Many of my clients who like to eat meat appreciate that my dishes help them to "eat lighter" without sacrificing any enjoyment.
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What if I prefer a vegan diet?
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I can provide more variety than you ever thought possible. A vegan diet is very hard to accommodate when eating out. Your choices are so limited. So why bother? Call me up and let me put some excitement in your culinary life.
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I'd like to lose some weight. Can you help me with portion control?
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Absolutely. I can also provide you nutritional information for each portion packaged, at no extra charge to you.
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