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

A Caterer typically prepares food for large events, creating the meals in a commercial kitchen and delivering the finished food to your event.

A Private Chef is employed by one individual or family full time and often prepares up to three meals per day.

A Personal Chef serves several clients, usually one per day. They provide multiple meals that are custom designed according to your particular requests and requirements, all in the safety of your own kitchen.

Is it expensive?
Having a chef come to your home to prepare custom made meals is a luxury, but it is a service that clients feel greatly improves the quality and quantity of their very valuable free time. This service isn't only for the very wealthy.  If you calculate the amount of money you spend each week on groceries that are never eaten, meals eaten in restaurants, gas, tips, and of course the time you spend shopping, cooking, cleaning, etc. you might be surprised just how affordable a personal chef really is.

Do you cook in my kitchen?
Yes.  On our agreed upon cook date, I will prepare your meals in your kitchen.  The health department requires that all food preparation take place in your home or facility.  I will bring the freshest ingredients for your meals, along with my own pots, pans, small appliances, and utensils as needed.  When I’m finished cooking I will clean up, leaving your kitchen as it was.

Do You Have a Business License?
My Chef Stacey adheres to all state and municipal laws and possesses a license to operate a business.


Do You Carry Liability or Property Insurance?
This is an extremely important question. In the unfortunate, and rare, event that injury or damage is caused to you and/or your property, you will have the peace of mind knowing that My Chef Stacey has insurance available to "make it right".

What if I don't have a big kitchen or fancy pots and pans?
Don't worry. I will bring all my own equipment. All you need to have is a stove/oven, refrigerator/freezer, and sink. I can prepare the same quality meals regardless of kitchen size.

Do I need to be home when you are there?
No, but I will need access to your kitchen.

I’ll be home that day.  Is it okay if I watch you cook?
My ultimate goal is for the food that I am preparing for you to exceed your expectations.  As much as I like to talk, the number of meals that I will be cooking for you requires quite a bit of concentration and timing.  I would love for you to pop in and say hello if you would like however, watching encourages talking and can lead to distraction  so visiting is best if left to a minimum. 

How long will you be in my home?
I am usually in a client's home anywhere from 4-6 hours depending on the number of dishes I prepare. I will make arrangements in advance so that the cooking date and time are compatible with your lifestyle and situation.

How are my meals stored?
You can choose from a variety of storage containers.  You can use pyrex, corning ware, gladware, disposable containers that are freezer, oven, and microwave safe, zip top storage bags, or vacuum-sealed bags.   Meals are labeled then stored in your refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to heat and eat. They can be packaged in single, double or family servings, depending on your needs.

How are my meals heated?
Depending on the type of entree, they may be heated in the oven, microwave or in a pot of simmering water.  I will leave heating instructions for each menu item. 

How much freezer space do you need?
It will depend on the number of meals you request and the size of the containers.  Usually a portion of the food I prepare can be stored in the refrigerator.  Efficient storage is one of the reasons I prefer to select appropriate uniform sized containers for my clients.

How long will the food last?
That depends on how many people are eating,   how many entrees you order,  and how many evenings you eat at home.  I will help you determine approximately how long your meals will last.  If you travel for business, entertain in restaurants during the week, or just enjoy eating out on occasion, the meals will take you further than if you eat in every night.   But of course eating in is like eating out when you have a personal chef.

What if I don't live within the service area?

We will provide chef service outside the Murray and Calloway County area of Western Kentucky if our schedule allows it. The best way to guarantee availability is to book early. Additional charges will apply. Contact us for a quote.

Do you cook for singles?
Yes. Several friends may want to go in together and purchase the service with the meals prepared in one home and packaged individually.

When do I pay for this service?
The service fee will be due the date of service.  A grocery deposit for each cook date is due 7 days prior to the date.

How much time will I save?
When you consider the time spent planning your meals, shopping for groceries, preparing and cooking the meals, and clean up the average individual will save from 8-14+ hours per week. Just imagine what you could do with all that extra time!

Do I have to select meals and catered events from a pre-set menu?
Never. My Chef Stacey tailors each menu to individual clients' specific tastes and dietary requirements. Ingredients you don't like will never appear on meals created for you.

Will you cook at my dinner parties?
Sure! I love to cook for dinner parties and family gatherings.  I will prepare a delicious dinner and clean up while you enjoy dessert.  If there is a theme or special occasion, I will plan the meal accordingly.  I charge a planning and shopping fee, cost of groceries, plus an hourly labor fee.

Can I call you on an as needed basis?
For Personal Chef Service, I will need a weeks notice. Please call at least 48 hours ahead to schedule parties,  intimate dining, and any of our other services.

What is your cancellation policy?
A 48 hour advance notice of cancellation or postponement is required for all services.  If these conditions aren’t met all deposits will be non refundable. 

How can I begin to use My Chef Stacey Personal Chef Service?

Now that's a great question!

Simply send us an email

or give us a call at 270-753-2280