Why a Catering Dinner for Two by a Private Chef Can Seem More Expensive

Pan seared polenta,stewed just leaves, and braised oxtail

When you book a private catering for two by a private chef, you’re not just paying for the dinner,food on the plate — you’re investing in a complete, personalized experience. Here's an educational look at what goes into the cost:

1. Time and Labor

A chef’s work starts long before arriving at your home. It includes:

Planning a custom menu

Sourcing quality ingredients (often fresh, local, or specialty items)

Prepping and cooking

Traveling to and from your location

Setting up, serving, and cleaning

Even for just two guests, this can take several hours — sometimes a full day of work.

2. Ingredient Quality

Small, intimate dinners often feature high-end ingredients — think prime cuts, fresh seafood, truffles, or imported spices. Since the chef is only cooking for two, there’s less room to offset costs across many plates.

3. Personalization

This is not a one-size-fits-all meal. Every element — from dietary needs to flavor preferences — is tailored specifically to your tastes. This level of customization takes extra thought and planning.

4. Equipment and Setup

Chefs often bring specialized tools, serving pieces, and cooking equipment to execute your meal flawlessly in your space. This includes travel time, wear and tear, and careful logistics.

5. Restaurant-Level Service, Without the Restaurant

You’re getting the same (or higher) level of detail and service you'd expect from a fine dining restaurant — but brought directly to your home or venue, in a private and intimate setting.

In short: You're not just paying for two plates of food — you're paying for time, quality, expertise, and a fully immersive dining experience.

It’s not just dinner — it’s a memory being made.