So, you’ve been dreaming about having a private chef cook delicious meals for you at home, but the big question is: how much does it cost? Well, you’re in luck, because we’re about to break it all down for you!
Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or just someone who loves good food without the hassle, hiring a private chef in Australia could be a game-changer.
Table of Contents
What’s the real cost of a private chef per month in Australia?
The first thing to understand is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s a rough idea of what to expect. If you’re looking for weekly meal prep, it could cost you between AUD 3,500 and AUD 5,500 per month.
Want a full-time chef who cooks five days a week? You’re looking at around AUD 8,500 to AUD 10,500 per month. And if you want the chef to work weekends too (plus make those special multi-course meals), it could go up to AUD 10,000 to AUD 13,500 per month.
But, the costs also depend on the number of people you’re cooking for. For example, a meal for just two people can cost AUD 173 per meal, while a group of 7 to 12 people might bring that down to AUD 135 per person. The more people you’re feeding, the less it costs per person!
Here is a breakdown on cost per person (based on group size):
- 2 People: AUD 173 per meal
- 3–6 People: AUD 139 per person
- 7–12 People: AUD 135 per person
- 13+ People: AUD 121 per person
Real price examples from Take a Chef bookings in Australia
To give you a clearer picture of how this works, let’s look at a few examples from real bookings in Australia:
- A family of four in Sydney might pay around AUD 4,000 per month for a weekly dinner service, which includes grocery shopping and cleanup.
- A full-time chef in Melbourne could cost around AUD 9,000 per month, cooking lunch and dinner five days a week.
- For something more luxurious in Sydney, daily service, multi-course dinners, and weekend brunches could cost around AUD 13,500 per month, with wine pairings and special menus included.
What factors impact the cost of hiring a private chef?
Several factors can affect the cost of a private chef in Australia. One of the most significant factors is the frequency of service. Daily service, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, is far more expensive than weekly visits.
Additionally, the complexity of your menu will play a role. Simple family meals will generally cost less than multi-course dinners or menus designed for special diets like keto, vegan, or gluten-free.
Location also impacts the cost. Large metro areas like Sydney and Melbourne tend to have higher rates due to the higher cost of living and the increased demand for personal chefs. In contrast, smaller towns or regional areas may have more affordable rates.
Similarly, the experience and expertise of the chef can also influence their fees. Chefs with Michelin-star backgrounds or those specialised in certain cuisines often charge more.
Lastly, additional services like wine pairings, event catering, or hiring extra staff for larger gatherings will drive up the cost.
Discover the convenience of private chef service
From flexible pricing and villa visits to vacation benefits and celebrity-style experiences, learn how our private chef service can transform your dining lifestyle.
What’s included in the price?
A monthly private chef service is much more than just preparing meals. It’s a full-service culinary experience that typically includes:
- Menu planning and customisation: tailored to your tastes, dietary needs, and seasonal ingredients.
- Grocery shopping: your chef will source fresh, high-quality ingredients for each meal.
- On-site cooking: meals prepared in your kitchen, fresh and ready when you need them.
- Table service or setup: whether plated dinners or family-style, your chef will arrange everything.
- Clean-up: your kitchen will be left spotless after every visit.
Is hiring a private chef worth it?
For many, hiring a private chef is a game-changer, especially if you value time, health, and quality food. A private chef takes care of grocery shopping, meal prep, cooking, and clean-up, freeing up hours each week for other important things in your life. It’s also a great way to enjoy high-end, restaurant-quality meals without leaving your home.
You won’t have to deal with noisy restaurants, parking, or making reservations; instead, you can sit down and enjoy meals crafted specifically for you.
A private chef also turns everyday meals into extraordinary experiences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a family meal, your chef will handle everything for you. And when you compare the cost of dining out regularly at high-quality restaurants, hiring a private chef can actually be more affordable, especially considering the convenience and personalised service it offers.
FAQs about hiring a private chef per month in Australia
Can a private chef accommodate last-minute bookings?
While it’s always best to plan ahead, many chefs can accommodate last-minute bookings depending on their availability. Keep in mind that booking in advance helps ensure you get the chef you want at the time that works best for you.
How does the chef source ingredients?
Most private chefs in Australia source their ingredients from local markets, farmers, and speciality stores. If you have preferences or want to ensure the use of organic or premium ingredients, your chef can accommodate those requests as well.
Are drinks included in the price?
Usually not, unless you add wine pairings or beverage service to your package.
Do I need to provide any equipment or utensils for the chef?
Most chefs will come prepared with their own tools and equipment, but if there’s something specific you’d like them to use, such as a particular type of cookware or appliance, just let them know ahead of time. Chefs can work with your kitchen and bring any necessary portable equipment.
What happens if I don’t like the food?
While private chefs pride themselves on creating meals tailored to your tastes, if you are unhappy with a dish or the meal, communicate with your chef. Most chefs are happy to make adjustments to ensure you are satisfied with the experience. Open communication before and during the service helps ensure you get the most out of your chef’s offerings.
