1. Post your request early
The top rated private chefs on Table at Home get booked out week after week, so try put your request in at least 2 weeks in advance to have your pick on our busiest times (Friday and Saturday nights). That being said, last minute 'day before' requests can often get picked up by private chefs who decide to work last minute, so don’t hesitate to try your luck on a Monday morning for that Tuesday night dinner date you have planned.
2. Browse our photo galleries for inspiration
All private chefs are encouraged to post lots of photos of their work. Many have amazing photo portfolios that will make your mouth water. Check out the ‘food porn’ on our Inspire me page or our Instagram feed to get some new ideas on a food style or theme for your next dinner party. Often we see customers base a Meal request around a photo of a dish that caught their attention.
3. Give chefs creative freedom on the menu
Private Chefs are creatives at heart. We have found that you get the best results when you give them a fairly free rein to propose a menu. So tell them you want vegetarian or have a craving for lamb, but don’t give them your grandma’s risotto recipe. That being said, don’t be afraid to ask them to suggest another desert when you like the main they have proposed but are not a fan of the creme brulee they proposed.
4. Look at other customers reviews when choosing your chef
Who better to tell you what a private chef is really like than a fellow customer. When trying to pick between chefs, often the comments from other customers can help you work out who you want. In addition to feedback on the food, customers comments often tell you about who the personal style and atmosphere they create. For intimate affairs like small dinner parties, often this interpersonal dimension is just as important an ingredient as the food. Do you want a private chef that likes to share their secrets and interact with guests? Or someone more in the background? There is no right or wrong, it is just about choosing what is right for you.
5. Don't wait to the last minute to confirm a private chef
As you would expect, the best chefs on our platform are in high demand, and tend to book out. Once you have received 3-4 proposals from chefs, and worked out the private chef you want .... don't wait too long to 'Accept' their proposal and confirm them. Until you confirm a booking with a private chef, there is always a chance that they are snapped up by another customer.
In addition to these tips, we are always available to help you in any way. Whether its getting you some different chefs proposals or talking through the best way to run your night.
