Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Fash.
How much does a personal chef cost?
On average, a personal chef costs$40 to $100 per hour or $50 to $130 per person. Some personal chefs charge per year, month, or day. Many charge $200 to $750 per week to prepare meals that you can reheat during the week. A personal chef's fee for a one-time dinner party is $300 to $1,600.
On the other hand, a private chef costs$5,000 to $10,000 per month or $60,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on their experience and how many hours they work. They usually work full time, up to 60 hours per week. Some private chefs charge per hour or day to create food for a one-time dinner party, but most work receive a regular salary from a single client.
What does a personal chef do?
A personal chef prepares meals for a family or client, either for a one-time dinner or on a regular basis. Many personal chefs will make a fresh meal once per week for clients and prepare reheat-able meals that their clients can heat up on their own later.
Is a personal chef worth it?
Personal chefs are worth it if you don’t have the time or ability to cook and have enough money to pay someone to cook for you. A personal chef can help you:
Save time on grocery shopping and cooking
Eat healthier foods and avoid fast food
Try different kinds of foods and expand your palette
Throw a dinner party or holiday dinner
How is a personal chef different from a private chef?
A personal chef is a cook that prepares food for one or more families, typically on a weekly or one-time basis. They may have several clients at a time and usually charge less than private chefs.
In contrast, private chefs typically prepare meals full-time for one family at a time which pays them a yearly salary. Private chefs charge more than personal chefs because they often have more experience and prepare more fresh meals instead of packaged meals made in advance.
How do I choose a personal chef?
You can follow these steps to make sure you hire the best possible personal chef:
Compare multiple quotes from reputable chefs near you.
Read chefs' reviews on Fash and Google.
Ask for a detailed quote and contract in writing.
Ask about their training and experience.
Ask what fees they charge and how they handle paying for groceries.
Make sure they have experience with any dietary needs you may have.
What questions should I ask personal or private chefs?
To make sure you find the candidate that will work best with your family, ask these questions:
What are your rates? Do you charge per person, per hour, per week, or something else?
Where did you receive your training or culinary education?
How many years of relevant experience do you have?
Where will be preparing the food?
Do you charge extra for groceries, or will I reimburse you after you shop?
Do you have experience with any specific dietary restrictions?
How soon can you start if we decide you're a good fit?
Do you charge extra for food delivery?
Do you have a set menu with rotating recipes, or could we make a customized meal plan?
Reviews for St Louis personal chefs for hire
Recent success stories from people in the St Louis area.
Melissa R.
From start to finish the service in planning the menu to the detailed set up of all of my events, the ideas and creativity, professionalism and even staff attire...all top tier! The food is AMAZING, HOT, FRESH and is catered specifically for your event! I would highly recommend Chatty Chews Catering! I'm a completely satisfied customer! Thank you Chatty Chews for ALWAYS serving with EXCELLENCE!
Chatty Chews Catering The Experience
Elexis D.
Her professionalism was immaculate and she provided outstanding service. The food was everything expected. Would highly recommend for any catering services.
Savory Succulence
Gigi M.
Rea's food tasted inCREDIBLE! We could taste the love. She made us an Asian fusion dish for our date night. Rea not only got our taste buds dancing! Her positive energy filled up our entire home. So thankful Rea could come out and cook for us!! Can't wait to have her again.
Rea Davis
Mary M.
Jess did amazing job on the food, communication and customer service. I love how she decrease my stress during the process! I will definitely hiring her again for my next occasion.
JRB's Catering
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Nearby personal chefs for hire in and around St Louis