FAQ
What does your private chef service include?
Platefuls of Joy takes care of the entire meal-prep process for you. Your service includes personalized meal planning, grocery shopping, in-home cooking, portioning and packaging your meals, and cleaning the kitchen when cooking is complete. You’re left with fresh meals ready to enjoy throughout the week.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or food allergies?
Absolutely. Meals can be customized around many dietary preferences, restrictions, and nutritional needs. Please let me know about any allergies or dietary concerns before your service so we can determine whether they can be safely accommodated.
How does the process work?
After booking your service, you’ll select your meals based on your preferences and dietary needs. I’ll take care of the grocery shopping, arrive at your home at the scheduled time, prepare and portion your meals, and clean the kitchen before I leave. Your meals will be stored and ready for you to enjoy throughout the week.
Can I choose my own meals?
Yes! You’ll be able to choose meals that fit your tastes, preferences, and dietary needs. The goal is to prepare food that you and your household will genuinely look forward to eating—not simply give you a predetermined meal plan.
Do you cook the meals in my home?
Yes! Platefuls of Joy is an in-home private chef service. I come directly to your home and prepare your meals fresh in your kitchen.
How many meals and servings do I receive?
A standard Platefuls of Joy service includes three recipes prepared during your in-home cooking session. Serving quantities can be selected based on the needs of your household, and your meals are portioned and packaged for convenient storage throughout the week.
Do I need to be home while you cook?
No. As long as we have arranged access to your home and everything needed for the service beforehand, you do not need to stay home while I cook. You’re welcome to go about your day and come home to a clean kitchen and meals ready for the week.
How long does a typical cooking session take?
Most private chef sessions take approximately 3-3½ hours. This includes cooking, portioning and packaging your meals, and cleaning the kitchen before I leave. The exact amount of time may vary depending on the meals selected.
Are groceries included in the price?
Groceries are separate from the cost of the private chef service. I handle the grocery shopping for you so you don’t have to make an additional trip to the store. Grocery costs are based on the ingredients required for your selected meals.
How should I store and reheat my meals?
Meals should be refrigerated or frozen depending on when you plan to enjoy them. To reheat, microwave your meal in 1-minute increments until heated through. Microwave times vary depending on the meal, portion size, and microwave, so additional time may be needed.
I bring the pots, pans, utensils, and cooking equipment necessary for your service. Your kitchen simply needs working basic appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, oven, sink, and enough refrigerator or freezer space to store your finished meals.