Question 1

What is a personal chef?

Accepted Answer

A personal chef comes to your house to prepare an entire week's worth of meals that are personalized to your unique preferences, dietary needs, and favorite foods. You'll get high-quality, fresh cooked food prepared in a sanitary environment (no greasy kitchens or unknown people making your food behind doors!). You'll save precious time in the kitchen so you can enjoy more of the things you live: friends, family, hobbies, and rest!

Question 2

What's the difference between a personal chef and a private chef?

Accepted Answer

A private chef is someone who cooks meals exclusively for you and your family each day of the week. A personal chef makes several meals at once that can be eaten throughout the week (aka, meal prep) and usually has multiple clients.

Question 3

Do I get to choose my meals?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We will work closely together to create menus that you will love. Hate green beans? You'll never see them in a meal. Total pumpkin lover? I'll do plenty of pumpkin dishes. Etc!

Question 4

What kind of meals do you prepare?

Accepted Answer

My cuisine is zesty, healthy, "California cuisine." I cook vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and omnivore meals while using as much local, seasonal produce as possible. Expect lots of greens, sauces, beans, veggies, curries, bright fruits, delicious healthy treats, and fresh herbs.  I must admit that due to my aversion to shellfish, I may not the best fit for you if you love seafood.

Question 5

What do I need in my kitchen before you cook?

Accepted Answer

I will do a comprehensive kitchen assessment before my first cook day. You will need several storage containers for me to use to pack your meals into, with different sizes depending on if you choose family style or composed meals (see below). You can buy storage containers online, or at your local Ace Hardware store. We will review this more during our consult.

Question 6

How long does a cook day take? Can I help you cook?

Accepted Answer

Depending on how many meals I prepare, I will usually be in your kitchen somewhere between 2 - 4 hours. I will do all the cooking myself. During this time I will be "in the zone," and not available for conversation or hanging out. Communication between chef and client takes place via email or phone.

Question 7

Can I do the grocery shopping myself?

Accepted Answer

To ensure exact ingredients and freshest ingredients, I will do the shopping myself. If you have grocery delivery service, I will place the order. It's amazing how even a different brand of cheese can make all the difference in a dish, and I want to make sure I get the exact item I need to make your food as delicious as possible.

Question 8

What is your COVID safety policy?

Accepted Answer

I am fully vaccinated and I arrange a plan for Covid safety with each of my clients.

Question 9

Do you have insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I am insured via FLIP (Food Liability Insurance Program). I'm happy to share more details upon request.

Sweetly Simmered

chef services for meal prep, retreats, & private events

sonoma. marin. napa. mendocino.

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