FAQ

A private chef typically works full-time for a single household, often preparing every meal throughout the day. A personal chef, like those at Crewneck Chef, serves multiple clients. They design weekly meal preps, host private dinners, brunch parties, cooking classes, and more. We offer the flexibility and variety of a personal chef service, with the attention to detail you’d expect from a fine-dining kitchen.

A private chef experience with Crewneck Chef is more than just a meal - it’s a full-service and 'home comfort' dining event designed around you. Here’s what’s included: Menu consultation: We design a custom menu based on your preferences, dietary needs, and seasonal availability. Personalized menu: We will design your own menu for you to keep, a token to remember your special event with Ingredient sourcing: We shop for everything, prioritizing locally grown ingredients of exceptional quality. On-site preparation: Your chef arrives early to prep and cook in your kitchen. Table service: We plate and serve each course so you can relax and enjoy the time with your guests. Cleanup: We leave your kitchen spotless when the experience is complete. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or a dinner just because, this is a restaurant-quality experience brought to your home.

Our pricing depends on the type of service and is designed to reflect both quality and flexibility. Meal Prep Our standard rate is $85 per meal, with each meal including four servings. You choose the number of meals per week based on your needs, and we’ll handle everything from sourcing to preparation. Private Dinners Pricing varies depending on the number of courses, guests, and the complexity of the menu. After your consultation, we’ll send you a clear, all-inclusive quote so there are no surprises. We believe in upfront, transparent pricing. No hourly rates, no hidden fees. You’ll always know exactly what you’re paying for before we begin.

Crewneck Chef is based in Raleigh, NC, and serves the greater Triangle area including: Durham Cary Chapel Hill Apex Wake Forest Holly Springs Morrisville Garner If you're outside these areas, we may still be able to accommodate you depending on the service and schedule. Just reach out and we’ll let you know what’s possible. We’re always happy to bring exceptional, seasonal meals to more homes - wherever they may be.

We source primarily from Weaver Street Market, a community-owned grocery that focuses on seasonal produce and partnerships with local farmers - values we share deeply. We supplement that with ingredients from Whole Foods and NC State Farmers Market to ensure everything meets our standards of freshness and quality. If you have a preferred grocer, we’re happy to accommodate within reason. Our top priority is using ingredients that are responsibly sourced and taste incredible.

Yes. A Crewneck Chef experience makes a unique and memorable gift for birthdays, anniversaries, new parents, or anyone who could use a delicious break from cooking. You can purchase a physical or digital gift certificate for any service—meal prep, private dinners, or custom events. The recipient can then schedule their experience at a time that works for them. It’s a thoughtful way to give someone the gift of time, great food, and a little luxury at home.

We don’t charge by the hour. You’re paying for a tailored experience—not a timer. You’ll always receive transparent pricing before your booking is confirmed. Here’s how it works: Meal Prep Includes a flat chef fee + meal costs (ingredients) + any optional add-ons like reusable containers or dietary modifications. The chef fee is billed when you reserve your first cook date for the number of weeks you'd like to book. The ingredient fee is billed 48 hours before each session, dependent on the meals you've chosen. Private Dinners & Brunches Includes chef fee + the cost of groceries for your personalized menu. Full payment is due 48 hours before your session, so we can source the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Yes. Depending on availability, you can book a Crewneck Chef for recurring or extended periods. Whether that’s daily support, weekly meal prep, or full-service coverage for a month. This is ideal for busy families, long-term visitors, or anyone wanting consistent, chef-prepared meals at home. To arrange a longer-term service, contact us directly so we can tailor a plan to your schedule and preferences.

Yes. After every service, we leave your kitchen just as clean—or cleaner—than we found it. Your chef handles all cooking-related cleanup, including dishes, counters, and any equipment used. For private dinners, we can also take care of serving ware and table service. The goal is simple: you enjoy the food and the experience without worrying about the mess.

No. Our pricing is fully inclusive and our chefs are compensated fairly—tipping is not required or expected. If you'd like to leave a tip, it’s always appreciated. But honestly, a great review or booking us again means just as much.

Absolutely. Crewneck Chef has helped plan surprise dinners, romantic proposals, and intimate celebrations. We’re thrilled to collaborate with you to make your moment unforgettable. From discreet arrival timing to personalized menus, wine pairings, or even custom plating, we’ll help you create something meaningful and memorable. If you have a vision, we’ll work behind the scenes to make it happen. Let us know your idea, and we’ll handle the food and flow so you can focus on the experience.

Yes. Crewneck Chef provides private chef services for small events, wellness retreats, corporate offsites, and group stays such as Airbnb or vacation rentals. Whether you need daily meals, a one-night dinner, or multi-day culinary support, we’ll build a custom plan that fits the group size, dietary needs, and schedule. Services can include plated meals, buffet-style service, or a mix of both. If you're planning a retreat or special event and want a chef-led experience that's seasonal, stress-free, and restaurant-level, reach out to discuss availability and pricing.

Yes. You’ll select your meals from our Seasonal Menu—just note your preferred dishes and how many portions you’d like. During your consultation, we’ll review your selections and talk through any dietary preferences, restrictions, or substitutions you'd like. The goal is a weekly menu that’s completely tailored to your taste.

Absolutely. Crewneck Chef is highly allergy-aware. You’ll find full allergen information on our Seasonal Menu. Most dishes can be modified to meet your needs if they’re not already labeled. If you have Celiac Disease, you’re in the right place. My wife has Celiac, so naturally over 90% of our menu is designed to be gluten-free, and we take cross-contamination very seriously.

Yes. Crewneck Chef specializes in crafting meals that match your lifestyle, whether you're eating keto, paleo, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, or a combination of dietary needs. Our Seasonal Menu offers a variety of options across different diets, and we’re happy to modify or build dishes to meet your preferences. Everything is made from scratch, and we pay close attention to ingredients and preparation methods to ensure accuracy and safety. During your consultation, you’ll let us know your goals, preferences or restrictions and we’ll take care of the rest.

Yes. You’ll need to provide your own storage containers. If you don’t have enough, Crewneck Chef can source high-quality glass containers for you. They’re ideal for food safety, sustainability, and oven-safe reheating. The cost will be added to your first invoice, and the containers are yours to keep.

Yes. All meals are prepared in your kitchen to ensure maximum freshness and full transparency. Some baked treats may be made earlier in the day to accommodate timing and space, but they’re always prepared fresh on the day of your service.

Yes. Meal prep is billed weekly and you’re free to cancel, pause, or restart your service anytime. We recommend booking four sessions at a time to secure your preferred time slot and give you a chance to settle into the rhythm of the service. While week-by-week bookings are welcome, availability may be limited.

Yes. During your consultation, we’ll discuss your preferences, dislikes, spice tolerance, and any dietary needs. Most modifications can be easily accommodated. Some changes, such as adding extra proteins or specialty ingredients, may incur a small additional charge. We’ll always confirm this with you before sending an invoice.

No. As long as we have access to your kitchen, you’re free to go about your day. Crewneck Chef was created to give you more time and flexibility. Whether you're working from home, out running errands, or taking time for yourself, we’ve got it covered.

Following each session, your personal chef will provide reheating instructions via email. For general use, here are some best practices to keep your dishes tasting fresh: Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place food in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 10–20 minutes. Use a food thermometer if needed: Chicken: 165°F Pork: 145°F Beef: 145°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (medium) Fish: 145°F Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish with a loose-fitting lid or wrap. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring or flipping halfway. Continue until the internal temp reaches safe levels (see above). The key is gentle, even reheating to preserve flavor and texture. If you have any questions, just send us an email - we're always here to help.