Guide
How far in advance should you book a private chef?
A private chef needs to be booked at least 6 days in advance. For special dates, events, groups and peak summer season in holiday destinations it is best to book 2-3 weeks ahead.
The minimum notice: 6 days
You can send a request for a date at least 6 days away. This gives chefs time to assess the request, prepare a menu proposal and, once it is confirmed, organise the shopping.
For an ordinary dinner in town, 6 days is often enough. The more time you leave, though, the more proposals you are likely to receive and the more room you have to compare them calmly.
When to book earlier
In some cases it is better to send your request 2-3 weeks ahead, because available chefs get booked up quickly.
- Special dates: Christmas, St Stephen’s Day, New Year’s Eve, Epiphany, Valentine’s Day, Ferragosto (15 August)
- Events such as milestone birthdays, anniversaries or company dinners
- Large groups
- Peak summer season in holiday destinations
- Villa stays with a chef for several days
Special dates: prices and availability
On special dates (Christmas, St Stephen’s Day, New Year’s Eve, Epiphany, Valentine’s Day and Ferragosto) the indicative price bands are doubled. They are also the most requested dates, so booking early matters twice as much.
For groups of more than 10 people, events and cooking classes the team looks after you directly: here too it is worth getting in touch a few weeks ahead.
Proposals have a deadline
After your request, which is free and quick to fill in, chefs send menu proposals by email. Each proposal has an expiry date: if you wait too long to choose it, it may no longer be valid.
You pay online only after choosing a proposal. The chef receives your contact details only after confirmation, and that is when the practical details are agreed.
If your plans change
You can cancel up to 48 hours before the service starts and get a refund of the amount paid. Within the last 48 hours the amount may be kept in whole or in part, because the chef has already done the shopping and prepared the work.
So it pays to book in good time but with reasonably firm dates, and to let the chef know straight away if the number of guests changes.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book a private chef?
At least 6 days before. For special dates, events, groups and peak summer season it is best to book 2-3 weeks ahead.
Can I book a chef for tomorrow?
No, the minimum notice is 6 days.
Do special dates cost more?
Yes: at Christmas, St Stephen’s Day, New Year’s Eve, Epiphany, Valentine’s Day and Ferragosto the indicative bands are doubled.
How long do I have to choose a proposal?
Each proposal shows an expiry date: it is best to compare them and choose without waiting too long.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, up to 48 hours before the service starts, with a refund. After that the amount may be kept in whole or in part.
Your chef in 5 minutes
Free request, proposals by email, you only pay for the one you choose.