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Writer's pictureBrent MacGillivray

What is a Private/Personal Chef

Updated: Jun 26


I'm often asked what a Private Chef does, and what exactly to expect. In the case of Dinner Thyme the lines are a little blurred. We are a bit of both worlds. We both prepare meals for private families, and we cater small intimate, one off's in private homes. These events include anything from bachelorette's, birthdays, micro weddings, reunions and much more.


Private chefs and personal chefs are both culinary professionals who prepare meals for clients, but there are some key differences between the two roles:




Private Chef:

  • Employment: Typically employed full-time by a single individual or family.

  • Living Arrangements: Often live in the same residence as their employer.

  • Availability: Available on-call to prepare meals whenever needed.

  • Cuisine: Can cater to specific dietary needs and preferences, often preparing gourmet meals.

  • Cost: Generally more expensive than personal chefs due to their exclusive services.



Personal Chef:

  • Employment: Self-employed and work with multiple clients.

  • Living Arrangements: Do not live with their clients.

  • Availability: Typically prepare meals in advance for clients to reheat.

  • Cuisine: Offer a variety of meal plans and can customize menus to suit individual needs.

  • Cost: More affordable than private chefs as they divide their time among multiple clients.


So how did the Private Chef Service Business become such a popular trend?


The personal chef business likely arose from a combination of factors:


  1. Changing lifestyles: As people's lives became busier and more demanding, they had less time for cooking but still desired fresh, home-cooked meals. Personal chefs provided a solution for this need.

  2. Increased demand for personalized services:  There was a growing trend towards personalized services in various industries, including food. People wanted meals tailored to their specific preferences and dietary needs, which personal chefs could offer.

  3. Culinary expertise and entrepreneurship: Talented chefs who wanted more flexibility and control over their work saw an opportunity to start their own businesses as personal chefs. This allowed them to share their culinary skills directly with clients and create a more intimate dining experience.

  4. Changing perceptions of dining: The traditional restaurant model was no longer the only option for fine dining. People were open to alternative experiences, such as having a chef prepare meals in their own homes.

The personal chef business likely started organically, with individual chefs offering their services to friends and family and gradually expanding their clientele. As the concept gained popularity, it became a recognized and viable business model.


Many other factors have contributed to the Private Chef phenomenon; here are a few examples.


  1. $200 per person for a three course meal with wine, tip and taxes...minimum! At dinner thyme the cost is $129 per person

  2. Flexibility; You pick the date, time, theme and menu

  3. Local, organic and sustainable is our 100% commitment! No grocery stores or big box convenience foods, ever!

  4. Custom menus; All menus are custom designed with the clients needs put first. Allergies, special diets and vegan/vegetarian options. NO PROBLEM!

  5. No Stress; We come to you. No concerns about drinking and driving. WE do all the work, and leave your home cleaner than when we arrived.

  6. Exceptional Cuisine; our chefs are well versed in International cuisine, vegetarian and special diet menus.

  7. Beverage service; we can suggest wines, shop for you and serve you at a fraction of the cost of a restaurant.

  8. Cooking classes and demonstrations; want to add an entertainment aspect to your event? How about a cooking class, wine tour or maybe live entertainment? DONE!

  9. Free Stuff; All our customers receive free access to our recipe and education portal. Want the recipes from your meal? DONE!

  10. Posh Picnics; looking for something to take to the beach, park or special event? Custom made picnic baskets delivered to your event!




Have a great hump day folks! We have so many options at Dinner Thyme Private Chef Association, give us a try, you wont regret it. We still have dates for August through October. BOOK NOW!

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