The private chef market in London has expanded dramatically since 2020. What was once the preserve of ultra-high-net-worth households is now accessible to anyone planning a dinner party, a weekend celebration, or a corporate event. The range is broad: from a freelance chef who'll cook a three-course dinner for eight in your kitchen (from around £50 per head) to a full-time household chef earning six figures.
Here's everything you need to know about navigating this market.
Types of Private Chef Service
One-Off Events
The most popular option. A chef arrives at your home (or venue), brings ingredients and equipment, cooks a multi-course meal, and cleans up afterwards. Menus are usually agreed in advance, and most chefs can accommodate dietary requirements. Expect to pay £50–150 per person for a dinner party, depending on the chef's profile and menu complexity.
Regular Private Dining
Some chefs offer weekly or bi-weekly services — meal prep, dinner party cooking, or daily household cooking on a retainer basis. This works well for busy professionals who want restaurant-quality food at home without committing to a full-time hire. Typical cost: £300–800 per day.
Full-Time Household Chef
A permanent member of your household staff, responsible for all family meals, entertaining, and often shopping and kitchen management. Salaries range from £45,000–120,000+ depending on experience, travel requirements, and household size. Many work 5–6 days per week with accommodation provided.
Where to Find a Private Chef
Specialist Agencies
The most reliable route. Agencies vet chefs, handle contracts, and provide backup if your chef is unavailable. Leading London agencies include La Belle Assiette, Hire A Chef, and yhangry. Expect to pay a booking fee (typically 15–25% on top of the chef's rate).
Staffing Agencies
For full-time positions, household staffing agencies like Irving Scott, Greycoat Lumleys, or Polo & Tweed can source experienced private chefs. They handle references, background checks, and contract negotiation.
Direct Hire
Many excellent private chefs have their own websites and social media presence. Instagram is particularly useful for finding chefs whose style matches your taste. However, you'll need to handle vetting and contracts yourself.
What to Expect
Before the Event
A good chef will have a detailed conversation about your preferences, allergies, dislikes, kitchen setup, and the occasion. They'll propose a menu (usually offering alternatives), confirm equipment needs, and provide a clear quote including ingredients. Most purchase ingredients themselves, adding the cost to the final bill.
On the Day
The chef typically arrives 2–4 hours before service, depending on the menu. They'll need access to your kitchen, counter space, and oven. Most bring their own knives and specialist equipment. Service style varies — some chefs plate in the kitchen and bring dishes out, others set up a more interactive experience.
After the Event
Professional chefs clean the kitchen to the standard they found it (or better). This includes washing up, wiping surfaces, and removing any waste. Most will leave leftover food plated in your fridge.
How to Choose
- Check their background. Former restaurant experience matters. A chef who's worked in Michelin-starred kitchens brings precision and discipline.
- Ask for references. Reputable chefs are happy to provide client testimonials.
- Taste their food. Some chefs offer tasting sessions. At minimum, study their social media and menus carefully.
- Discuss your kitchen. Not every ambitious menu works in a domestic kitchen. A good chef will adapt.
- Agree costs upfront. The quote should include the chef's fee, ingredients, and any additional staff (waiting staff are separate).
Costs at a Glance
Dinner party (3 courses, 8 guests): £500–1,200
Canapé reception (20 guests): £800–2,000
Weekend private chef: £1,500–3,000
Full-time chef salary: £45,000–120,000/year
Explore our Food & Catering partners for private chef services, or browse household staffing agencies for full-time placements.
