Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a dinner cost?
The price of a meal depends on many factors, including how many people are eating, the specific menu items, and where you are located. On average, a three-course meal costs between $100 and $175 per person plus tax.
How long does a dinner take?
A typical three-course meal for eight to twelve people will take about four hours—two hours of preparation, one hour of eating, and one hour of clean-up. Cocktail parties generally take about six hours in total.
Do you travel outside Halifax?
The simple answer is yes. I travel all over Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and beyond. I charge a per-hour fee for every hour I have to travel in each direction. I also charge for accommodations if I have to travel more than four hours in each direction.
I am based out of Dartmouth and River Bourgeois, Cape Breton.
Do I have the right pots and pans?
No need to worry. I bring all my own pots and pans. I bring literally everything I need except the table setting and stove.
Do I need to make room in my fridge?
I will require some fridge space for certain desserts but will let you know ahead of time.
What time is the meal served?
The time you eat is entirely up to you. Generally, people like to eat between six and seven pm. I require two to three hours (depending on the menu) of preparation before serving the food. So, I will typically arrive at four or five if you’d like to eat at seven.
Does everyone order the same thing?
Since every dish is freshly prepared in your kitchen, I generally recommend a uniform menu for all guests to ensure the highest quality and efficiency. However, I recognize the need for flexibility. I’m more than willing to modify nearly any menu item to cater to allergies or dietary restrictions. For events requiring varied main courses, I suggest keeping side dishes consistent across all plates to streamline service while accommodating diverse tastes.
Do I have to order a soup, salad, appetizer, main course and dessert?
Simply put, no. Most people order a three or four-course meal, but you can order whatever you’d like.
Is my kitchen big enough?
Whatever sized kitchen you have will be fine. As long as it is clean and tidy, and your oven works, I can make it work.
What do I need to provide?
All you need to provide is a clean and tidy kitchen and table settings. I’ll provide everything else.
Have a question not answered here?
Private Chef Menus
You can find private chef menu ideas here. Custom menus are available upon request and for an additional fee.
Spring
Winter
Summer
Finger Foods
Fall
Family-Style
When You Book Me
As part of my Private Chef Service, I provide everything needed except glassware, plates, cutlery, and the kitchen. I like to say that you provide the kitchen and I provide the rest. You may be wondering exactly what I provide. Here is a checklist that I use to ensure that I have everything I need.
I may not bring everything on the list, but if I need it, I will have it. On top of that, it is always my goal to leave your kitchen cleaner than I found it. Yes, I even do the dishes and clean your kitchen after dinner.
