1.      It seems expensive.  Is hiring a personal chef a worthwhile investment?

It may seem expensive at first, but in those hours that Chef Noreen is in your kitchen, she will prepare enough food to feed a couple or small family for a week. It’s not as expensive as going out to dinner, where you have to travel to the restaurant, pay for your food and drive back home.  How much is your time worth to shop, prepare, cook and clean up for your meals?  With Chef Noreen coming to your home, you don’t have to shop for groceries, cook a meal and clean up.  This can free up your time to spend on things that are more important to you.  Chef Noreen saves you money, time and hassle.

Our fee is based on the professional personal chef service (plus food).  The fee includes the initial consultation, creating a customized menu, shopping, coming to your home to cook with all the necessary equipment, packaging, labeling and storing your meals and cleaning your kitchen afterwards. 

2.      Are you insured?

Yes, Chef Noreen carries liability insurance and has a ServSafe Certificate, which means she has been trained in safe food handling.

3.      Can you use my containers?

I prefer to select the appropriate size and style container to fit your requirements.  Uniform size containers take less storage space in your freezer.  If desired, I can use your containers, but would like to help you decide which containers are appropriate.   

How much freezer space do you need?

It depends on the number of meals you request and the size of the container, but it does generally require a considerable amount of freezer space.  I consider your freezer size during our initial assessment.  Efficient storage is one of the reasons I prefer to select the appropriate size container.

What is the difference between a Personal Chef and a Private Chef? 

A private chef is employed by one individual or family full time, often living with the family and preparing three meals per day.  A personal chef serves several clients, usually one per day, and provides multiple meals that are custom designed for the client’s particular requests and requirements.  These meals are packaged and stored so that the client may enjoy them in the future.

Do you cook in my kitchen?

Yes, we do prepare your meals in the safety of your own kitchen.   On our agreed upon cooking date we bring the fresh ingredients for your meals along with our own pots, pans and utensils and prepare your entrees on site.  At the end of the day, we leave your kitchen clean and full of the aroma of good home cooking!

How long will you be here?

I’ll be cooking several different entrees and side dishes from scratch, so it will take several hours. I can arrange with you so my cook date fits into your schedule. 

I’ll be home that day.  Is it okay if I watch or help?

I would prefer that you think of your kitchen as “my office” when I am in your home preparing your meals.  I am a professional that you hired to do a job.  Being under someone’s watchful eye or being distracted by conversation or inquiries cannot only slow the process, but it can also distract me and cause burns, cuts and forgotten ingredients. 

9.      Why do you prepare the food in my kitchen?

Illinois law requires personal chefs to use their client’s kitchens unless the chef has access to a licensed commercial kitchen.

What can I do to prepare for your arrival? 

Please have a clean kitchen, an empty sink and room in your fridge and freezer.

Do I heat the food? 

Yes.  Any entrees that have been stored for you in your freezer should be defrosted overnight in your refrigerator and heated, to be enjoyed at the peak of their flavor.  Heating instructions will be left for each entree.

What type side dishes do you prepare?

I prepare side dishes that compliment the entree you have selected.  For example, if you have ordered a beautiful savory stew entree, I will prepare a rice side dish and fresh green salad to be enjoyed with the stew. 

What if I want you to prepare additional side dishes as well? 

I will be happy to provide that service for you; however, it will require an additional fee.

Do I pay you ahead of each cooking date? 

Yes, it is customary to pay for the service in advance of your cooking date.  If you like you may leave me a check for the upcoming cook date on the day I am cooking.

Is there a long-term commitment?

No. This service is designed for you to have the meals you want, when you want it. Just schedule your cook date when you are ready. I can come back every week, 2 weeks or whenever you just need a break!