Getting Started

• What is ChefMaison?

  ChefMaison is a platform that connects guests with professional private chefs for personalized dining experiences at home, on vacation, or at special events.Featured

• What makes ChefMaison different?

  There are a lot of ways to book food for an occasion. What makes ChefMaison different is what you're actually getting: a real chef, shaping a real experience, around you. You choose a chef, not a menu off a shelf On ChefMaison, you browse real chef profiles — their photos, their style, their reviews — and pick the one who feels right for your occasion. There's no generic package assigned to you and no anonymous kitchen behind the scenes. You know exactly who's cooking before you ever confirmFew readers

• Can I gift a private chef experience?

  Yes! A ChefMaison gift card is a great way to give someone a private chef experience — and it's more flexible than you might expect. Our gift cards are valid for 2 years, and work worldwide A ChefMaison gift card remains valid for 2 years, and can be used anywhere in the world where we currently have chefs available. This means the person you're gifting it to could enjoy the experience somewhere else entirely in the future — whether they're traveling, or we've since expanded our chefFew readers

• Why book through ChefMaison instead of arranging things directly with a chef?

  It might seem simpler to find the chef on Instagram or google, or exchange numbers and handle everything yourselves — but here's what you'd actually be giving up. What ChefMaison actually does for your event Booking through the platform isn't just a formality — it's what makes the whole experience run smoothly and safely: Structured planning, not guesswork. Proposals are built around your actual event — guest count, menu, timing, location — so nothing gets lost in a casual DM thread.Few readers

• Is ChefMaison free to use?

  Yes. Creating an account, browsing chefs, and requesting quotes are all completely free. What costs nothing Creating your ChefMaison account Browsing chef profiles, photos, and reviews Requesting a quote for your event Chatting with chefs and comparing proposals There's no obligation at any point during this — you can request quotes from several chefs, ask questions, and compare menus without paying anything or committing to anything. When you actually pay You only pay once youFew readers

• What type of services do you offer?

  Chefs on ChefMaison offer a wide range of private dining and culinary services. Each experience is customized depending on your event, location, and preferences. Common services include: Private dinners A chef prepares and cooks a multi-course meal for you and your guests in your home or accommodation. This is the most popular option for birthdays, celebrations, and special evenings. Vacation chef services For guests staying in vacation homes or villas, chefs can cook daily meals during yoFew readers

• Which countries and cities is ChefMaison available in?

  ChefMaison chefs are active across 30+ countries — we're present wherever we have chefs and requests, so our coverage keeps growing every week. Our strongest markets today include France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, each with dozens to hundreds of chefs already active, alongside a fast-growing presence across the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Switzerland, Portugal, Belgium, South Africa, Germany, and Greece. ChefMaison works differently from a fixed directory. Even if yoFew readers

• Do you have experience with large events?

  Yes. Many chefs on ChefMaison have experience cooking for large groups and special events. Depending on the chef and the type of event, they may be able to accommodate: large family gatherings birthday celebrations weddings corporate events retreats private parties For larger groups, chefs may work with additional staff such as servers, assistants, or extra chefs to ensure smooth service. If you are planning a large event, it is helpful to include the following information in your reFew readers

Booking a Chef

• What happens if my chef doesn't show up on the day of my event?

  It's completely understandable to want guarantees before your event — here's exactly what protects you, and what happens if something goes wrong. What a chef commits to when they accept your booking When a chef accepts your booking on ChefMaison, they're committing to deliver the service at the date, time, and address you agreed on together. This isn't just a casual arrangement — it's a confirmed commitment on the platform. If something goes wrong on the chef's side If a chef has a lasFew readers

• Finding/Booking a chef

  Finding a chef on ChefMaison is simple and designed to help you discover the right chef for your event. You can browse our chefs, explore menu ideas, and choose the chef that fits your needs. Browse chefs Start in our Home, by typing the name of your city. A list of available chefs in that location will appear, along with some of theirPopular

• How can I see the chef's availability and rates?

  ChefMaison is a marketplace, which means chefs are independent and their availability can vary. On the right side of a chef's profile, you'll find a form to check their availability and request a quote directly. Check the chef’s calendar Chefs usually block the dates they are not available in their profile calendar. You can enter in their profile to check it out. ![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/f/5/a/b/f5ab38e0c304c000/captura-de-tela-2026-03-26-as-_1ws5x80.pnPopular

• How can I see the reviews of the chef?

  How can I see reviews from chefs? You can view chef reviews directly on the ChefMaison website before or after submitting a request. If you have not submitted a request yet Search for your city on ChefMaison Browse available chefs Open a chef’s profile Click on Reviews or More to see guest feedback and ratings This allows you to discover chefs, expFew readers

• What cuisines are available?

  From Italian and French to Peruvian, Indian, Brazilian, and kosher — browse or filter chefs by the cuisine you're craving.Few readers

• I have dietary restrictions or special needs — how can I find the right chef?

  ChefMaison allows you to communicate your dietary requirements directly to chefs before confirming a booking. Include your dietary needs in the request When creating your request, mention any dietary restrictions or preferences. At the end of the request form, there is a text field where you can briefly explain your needs. For example: vegetarian or vegan dietsFew readers

• How far in advance should I book a chef?

  It is recommended to book a chef as early as possible, especially during peak travel seasons and holidays. For the best availability, we suggest: Large events or weddings: 2–4 months in advance Vacation chef services or multi-day bookings: 3–6 weeks in advance Private dinners or small gatherings: 1–2 weeks in advance While last-minute bookings are sometimes possible, please note that ChefMaison cannot guarantee same-day bookings. As a marketplace, our platform needs timSome readers

• Can I book a chef for multiple days?

  Yes. Many chefs on ChefMaison offer multi-day services. This is especially popular for guests staying in vacation homes, villas, or holiday rentals who want a chef to cook during their stay. Depending on the chef and your needs, multi-day services may include: daily breakfasts lunches or light meals multi-course dinners grocery shopping and ingredient sourcing How to select multiple days While creating your request: 1- Click on multiple dates. 2- Select the first date of yourSome readers

• Can I change my booking after paying?

  Yes — changes may still be possible after payment, depending on the chef’s availability and the type of change requested. What can usually be changed After payment, you can still discuss adjustments directly with the chef, such as: Number of guests Dietary requirements Menu updates or dish changes Timing adjustments Small event details Changes that may be more difficult Some changes may require additional approval or a new proposal, especially: Changing the event date AddingFew readers

• How do I contact a chef?

  Check a chef's availability and get a price indication by filling out their profile's quote request form — here's how each field works.Few readers

Proposals & Booking

• Are groceries and ingredients included in the price?

  Since ChefMaison is a marketplace, every chef runs their own business and may structure their service slightly differently. However, here's what you can generally expect and how to make sure everything is clear before booking. For a single-day private chef experience For most single-day bookings, groceries and ingredients are included in the chef's price. Our pricing typically starts from a base price that already includes standard ingredients, giving you a clear starting point. The cFew readers

• How do I close or withdraw a proposal I'm no longer interested in?

  Not moving forward with a chef? Close the request yourself in 3 taps — no reason needed, no obligation.Few readers

• What happens if the chef doesn't deliver what was agreed?

  Report any issue within 24 hours of your event, before the chef's 48-hour payout — here's how to document it and get help.Few readers

• Can I choose the menu?

  Yes — there are no fixed menus. Use a chef's Inspiration Menu as a starting point, or build one from scratch around your preferences.Few readers

• What is included in the proposal?

  A chef’s proposal includes all the important details about your dining experience before you confirm the booking. A proposal may include: Suggested menu and dishes Number of guests covered Date and time of the event Type of service provided Ingredient and preparation costs Travel costs (if applicable) Staffing or additional service fees Total price and payment details Personalized for your event Each proposal is customized based on your request, preferences, dietary needs,Few readers

• How do I accept a proposal?

  Once you receive a proposal from a chef, you can review all the details directly on the platform. To accept a proposal: Open the proposal in your ChefMaison account Click in: View quote & confirm Review the menu, pricing, guest count, and service details Click the Pay button Choose if you like the cancellation insurance Complete the payment process to confirm your booking Important A proposal is only fully confirmed after payment is completed. Until payment is made: *Few readers

• What happens after I accept a proposal?

  After you accept a proposal and complete the payment, your booking becomes officially confirmed. What happens next Booking confirmation Both you and the chef will receive confirmation that the booking has been secured. Continued communication You can continue chatting with the chef to finalize details such as: Dietary requirements Timing adjustments Final guest count Special requests Event preparation The chef will begin organizing: Ingredient sourcing Menu preparationSome readers

• How can I change my proposal?

  You can request changes to a proposal before confirming your booking. Steps to change your proposal: Open your proposal in the ChefMaison app or website Use the chat to contact the chef Clearly explain what you would like to change The chef will review your request and send an updated proposal if needed What can be changed: Menu items or dishes Number of guests Timing of the event Dietary requirements or preferences Additional services or special requests Changes depeFew readers

• How to add co-hosts or additional guests to your proposal

  You can add co-hosts or additional participants to your proposal directly from your chat with the chef. How to add participants Open your chat with the chef. Click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner. Select Chat Info. Under Participants, select Add people. Select the people you would like to add. The new participants will then be added to the conversation and can follow the communication with the chef.Few readers

Payments

• Can I pay as a business and add my VAT number?

  Yes. If you're booking on behalf of a company, you can enter your business details during checkout. How to pay as a business Open your chef's proposal. Click Pay. Select your preferred payment method (available options depend on your country and may include credit/debit card, PayPal, and other local payment methods). Before completing the payment, check the checkbox: Pay as a business option. Enter your company details, including your VAT number, and complete the payment.Some readers

• What payment methods are available?

  When you confirm a booking, you can choose between paying the full amount upfront or securing your date with a deposit. Here's how each option works, including the exact terms based on your booking size. Full payment You pay the total amount upfront, in one payment, to confirm your booking. Deposit You pay a percentage upfront to secure your date, with the remaining balance charged automatically before your event — no action needed from you when that happens. The exact terms dependFew readers

• How can I use a discount voucher / gift card?

  Got a promo code or a gift card? Here's exactly how to use it when booking your private chef experience. How it works Submit a request for your private chef experience on our website, including your preferred date, location, number of guests, and any cuisine preferences. Once you receive your recommended chefs, chat with them, discuss the menu, and choose your favorite chef. When you're ready to book, proceed to checkout. At checkout: applying your code Choose Pay in full oFew readers

• Invoices

  When you book a chef through ChefMaison, you'll receive 2 invoices — both generated automatically, so there's nothing you need to request. The 2 invoices you'll receive An invoice from ChefMaison — covering the platform's service fee, plus any extras you added, such as booking protection (cancellation insurance). An invoice in your chef's name — for the value of the menu/proposal they put together for your event. Together, these two documents cover everything included in youFew readers

• Why is the final amount higher than the chef's quoted price?

  If the total at checkout looks higher than the price your chef quoted in the proposal, here's exactly what makes up the difference. What's included beyond the chef's price Your chef's proposal covers their service — the menu, ingredients, and everything discussed together. On top of that, a couple of things can add to the final total: ChefMaison's service fee — a small fee (typically 2–4% of the quote) that covers secure payments, platform support, and running the marketplace itself.Few readers

Communication with the Chef

• Can I talk with the chef on WhatsApp? How can I get the chef’s number?

  No, ChefMaison does not share personal contact details such as phone numbers or WhatsApp. All communication with your chef must stay within the ChefMaison platform. Why communication stays on the platform Keeping conversations inside ChefMaison ensures: Secure and traceable communication Protection for both clients and chefs Proper support in case of issues Clear record of agreements and changes You can always chat directly with your chef using the built-in messaging system.Some readers

• How automatically translate messages inside the chat

  If your chef speaks a different language, you can enable Auto Translate in the chat. This feature automatically translates incoming and outgoing messages, allowing you to communicate easily within the ChefMaison app. How to enable Auto Translate Open your conversation with the chef. Click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner. Select Chat Info. Enable Auto Translate. Messages will now be translated automatically while you chat. ![](https://storage.crisp.chat/uFew readers

The day of the event, and after

• How do I leave a review?

  Sharing your experience helps other guests choose the right chef with confidence — and it's quick and easy to do. When and how you'll be asked After every completed event, we automatically send you an invitation to leave a review — both in the chat with your chef and by email. Depending on the request, you may be asked to leave your review on: Trustpilot Google (accept also photos) These are independent, public review platforms, so your feedback is visible beyond ChefMaisoFew readers

Policies

• Cancellation Policy for Clients

  We know that plans don't always work out. Life happens, and we've designed our cancellation policy to be as fair and transparent as possible. This guide explains: How cancellation refunds work What Booking Protection is How deposit payments work What happens if a chef cancels Exceptional circumstances How cancellations work You can cancel your booking at any time. The amount refunded depends on how far in advance you cancel. The earlier you cancel, the higher your refund. ThisPopular

• Your practical guide to hosting a private chef at home

  Hosting a private chef for the first time? Here's everything you need to know, from planning to the day itself — including a few important safety tips. Before your event Make sure your booking is actually confirmed. A booking is only confirmed once you've paid through the ChefMaison platform and received confirmation — in the app, by chat, and by email. If you haven't received that confirmation, don't assume the date is locked in. Finalize the details with your chef. Use the chat to aFew readers

• Booking Protection

  What It Is and Why It's Worth Adding Life is unpredictable. A flight gets cancelled, a family emergency comes up, a work deadline shifts at the last minute — and suddenly the private chef experience you were so looking forward to needs to change. That's exactly why we created Booking Protection. What is Booking Protection? Booking Protection is an optional add-on that significantly increases the amount you get back if you ever need to cancel your booking. Instead of relying only on our sFew readers

• What guarantees does ChefMaison offer?

  Here's a clear summary of what's actually protecting you when you book through ChefMaison. Secure payments Your payment is held securely and only released to the chef after your event takes place — so the chef isn't paid upfront, giving them a real incentive to deliver the service as agreed. A confirmed commitment from your chef When a chef accepts your booking, they're committing to deliver the service at the date, time, and address you agreed on. If something goes wrong on their endFew readers

• I need a chef

  We’re excited that you’re planning something special with us. 🥂. ChefMaison is a curated platform that connects you with extraordinary private chefs who create unique and personalized dining experiences — whether it’s an intimate dinner, a celebration, or a multi-day event. To help us find the perfect chef for you, please submit your request via the link below: https://chefmaison.com/quotes/ Once you submit your request, we’ll carefully review it and begin matching you with the most suitable cFeatured