Private Chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Rent one of our 59 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea in March 2017, more than 59 Private Chefs have joined our platform in Carmel-by-the-Sea and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in Monterey County.
Starting in 2017, 116,662 guests have already enjoyed a chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea. To book your chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea, just share your event details in our form. Receive proposals from top chefs and chat with them until you find your match.
Up until today, our chefs have shared 32,828 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 75,717 messages to their guests, who rated their experience with an average score of 4.71 out of 5.
Since the first dinner provided by Take a Chef, 116,662 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in Carmel-by-the-Sea usually book menus around 183 USD per person, including 3.76 courses, sharing an average of 4.9 messages with their chefs. If you've never had a chef at home but want to add an extra spice to your next celebration, just rent a chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea.












How it works
Personalize your request
Share with us the details of your dream meal, including type of cuisine, preferences, and intolerances.
Receive menu proposals
Our chefs will design menus based solely on your wants and needs.
Get chatty with your chefs
Don't be shy about exchanging some messages with your chefs until your perfect menu is ready!
Book your experience
Once you are happy with your choice, submit your payment to secure your experience.
Enjoy!
All there is left to do is count down the days till your culinary experience begins!
Find your chef
Customize your request and start talking with your chefs.
59 Private Chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea












More than 116,600 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4.49 Chef
The guests in Carmel-by-the-Sea have scored the experience with their Private Chef with a 4.49.
4.78 Food quality
The quality of the menus cooked by our Private Chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea received an average score of 4.78.
4.69 Presentation
Not only taste counts! The presentation of our private chefs' dishes has received a 4.69 average score.
4.77 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in Carmel-by-the-Sea has been scored with a 4.77 on average.
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32,828 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








Chili beans soup
Asparagus cream soup
Fish ceviche con leche de tigre
Ceviche peruvian style
Fish tacos
Lentil soup
Shrimp cocktail
Sourdough quesadillas with huitlacoche
Chicken with tropical salsa
Mexican enchiladas
Grilled fish with roasted vegetables
Sliced steak with roasted vegetables
Creme brulee
Vanilla pudding
Cinnamon cookies
Beautiful cheesecake
Chocolate crunchy bars
Grilled artichokes & brussels sprouts w/ balsamic
Assorted charcuterie delicacies, fresh italian breads, assorted fruits and vegetables
Jumbo tiger shrimp ceviche. with avocado, jicama. served with blue corn chips
Chef’s ceasar salad w/ grilled jumbo tiger shrimp.creamy honey infused ceasar dressing
Steak & seasoned frites
Grilled beef hamburgers and nathan’s grilled hotdogs
Chefs potato salad & cole slaw
Grilled vegetables
Chefs mini individual chocolate/ caramel cakes with macadamia nuts. served with vanilla bean ice cream
Chef’s shortcake & strawberries. with meyer lemon infused cream/ vanilla bean gelato
- stuffed eggs: tuna or avocado, mayonnaise come together in an explosion of flavors. with soffritto, you can include cheeses. v,df,gf
- spring brochette, caprese style: tomato, mozzarella and basil, a classic! crowned with parmesan covered with balsamic. v,gf
- italian bruschetta: crispy toast crowned with a sautéed vegetable, mozzarella, prosciutto or caviar or salmon and parmesan. gf,df
- shrimp with prosciutto: seasoned with sweet paprika wrapped in prosciutto. gf,df
- big salad "insalatona": fresh combination of lettuce, arugula, tomato, carrots, radishes, cucumber and avocado. v,gf,df
- stuffed tomatoes: fresh and delicious tomatoes stuffed with a sautéed vegetable mixture, rice and mayonnaise. v,gf
- canapés: small and delicious typical italian tarts, with shrimp, salmon or avocado, ricotta and vegetables. v,df
- empanadas: delicious puff pastry with a filling of ground meat or chicken or fish, egg, veggies and lots of flavor. df
- gnocco fritto: fried bread, typical of emilia, served hot and together with cheeses and cold cuts: prosciutto, salame, pepperoni. df
- margherita and 4 cheese small pizzas, made in italy, to enjoy with the family. v
- spinach frittata: italian appetizer, perfect fried mixture of egg, spinach, vegetables. possible version with mozzarella. v,gf,df
- citrus salad: unique explosion of flavors between arugula, cherry tomatoes, grapefruit, orange and tangerine. v,gf,df
- charcuterie board: assortment of cheeses and charcuteries for all tastes. gf
- red onion prawns: shrimp seasoned with sweet paprika with red onion. gf,df
- tigelle di modena: a popular food in emilia. homemade rolls, small and circular, filled with prosciutto, cheese and more
- genoese salad: arugula, prunes and prosciutto on a bed of fresh ricotta and topped with genovese pesto sauce. df
- pinzimonio: typical appetizer from emilia with various raw vegetables that are soaked in vinegar, olive oil and salt. v,gf,df
- emilian salad: simple combination of flavors between lettuce, tomatoes and red onion. v,gf,df
- prawn cocktail: avocado, cilantro, tomato, onion, garlic, mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon, olive oil. v,gf,df
- uncle alfredo salad with arugula, red onion, green pepper, avocado and apple. v,gf,df
- milanesa and cheese board
- iberian chicken wings. gf
- penne all’arrabbiata: enjoy a touch of spicy peperoncino with tomato, parmesan, garlic and parsley sauce. v,gf,df
- pasta alla vodka: a little parmesan, tomato, heavy cream, onion, garlic, basil and vodka. v,gf
- spaghetti alla carbonara: roman pasta with egg yolk, parmesan and bacon, a perfect mix! that will blow your mind. gf,df
- riso ai funghi: scented rice with mushrooms and typical italian vegetables. v,gf,df
- risotto: delicious and creamy italian-style rice with vegetables and aromatic herbs. version with chicken thighs. v,gf,df
- tagliolini with speck or broccoli and arugula: homemade creamy pasta from the italian mountains. v, df
- tagliatelle al ragù: homemade pasta, with a delicious italian bolognese sauce. gf,df
- linguine al pesto: homemade pasta, garnished with a tasty ligurian pesto with fresh basil and parmesan. v,df
- potato gnocchi with asparagus: delicious gnocchetti topped with delicious asparagus cream sauce, vegetables and herbs. v,gf
- lasagna emiliana: bolognese sauce layered with 4 layers of homemade pasta, topped with parmesan and bechamel. df
- four cheeses potato gnocchi wrapped together with sauce of mozzarella cheese, parmesan, cheddar and gouda. v,gf
- spaghetti boscaiole: all the flavor of the forest in a mushroom cream sauce along with onion, garlic, arugula and basil. v,gf,df
- pappardelle with prawn sauce. df
- ravioli: tomato sauce and basil. v
- whole wheat spaghetti boscaioli with mushroom. v,df
- whole wheat spaghetti with herbs, broccoli and vegetables. v,df
- filet mignon with vegetables: mythical beef steak with intense flavor, crispy crust, juicy interior finished with vegetables. df,gf
- salmon with purée 3 colors: our favorite fish without a doubt. delicious portion of salmon with a carrot and potato puree. gf,df
- boneless chicken leg with orange juice: explosion of flavors, marinated with orange, paprika and along with vegetables. gf,df
- shrimp skewer: delicious shrimp cooked on skewers with grilled vegetables. gf,df
- italian-style eggplant slices with roasted vegetables. v,gf,df
- roasted pork with egg and plums: baked ham stuffed with plums and egg, along with a fresh salad or vegetables. gf,df
- baked broccoli gratin with bechamel and parmesan. v,gf
- zucchini ripieni with vegetables. v,gf,df
- beef outside skirt steak pizza style with salad or grilled vegetables. gf
- milanesa a caballo - horseback: tender breaded beef with potatoes and fried eggs. df
- chicken and prawn skewer with vegetables. gf,df
- scaloppine with vegetables. gf,df
- vacío steak with vegetables: classic steak, prepared at your will. juicy, delicious and full flavor topped with vegetables. gf,df
- chicken supreme with vegetables. df
- surf and turf: filet mignon and prawn with baked vegetables. gf,df
- lemon chicken breast scallopini with baked vegetables. gf,df
- one pizza for each vegetarian person: eggplant and honey, ortolana, margherita, funghi, 4 cheeses. v
- one pizza per person: peperoni, sausage, capricciosa, 4 stagioni, bismarck, prosciutto e parsley
- tiramisú: our signature dessert. mascarpone, coffee, lady fingers cookie, dark chocolate, eggs and sugar. v,gf,df
- chocolate mousse: popular creamy dessert loved by children and adults based on chocolate and eggs. v,gf,df
- nutella crepe: delicious french crepe, the original recipe. nutella will take you to italy. v,gf
- lemon sorbet: sorbet with a light and refreshing texture with fresh lemon. v,gf
- macedonia: seasonal fruits, put together to enjoy a healthy dessert. v,gf,df
- nutella pizza: sweet italian pizza based on nutella and blueberries. v,df
- strawberry sorbet: sorbet with a light and refreshing texture with fresh strawberry. v,gf
- chocolate cake with nutella: dark chocolate cake filled with blueberry jam and fresh strawberries, topped with nutella cream. v,df
- fruit sticks. v,gf,df
- m&m chocolate cake. v
- vanilla cake with forest fruits. v
Hummus
Homemade neapolitan pizza
Handmade pasta ravioli
Greek salad
Fish tartare
Fish ceviche
Fish tacos
Caprese salad
Cheese pizza or pepperoni
Fusion rolls
Caesar salad with shrimps
Sliced steak with roasted vegetables
Chicken breasts with tropical salsa
California roll with real crab
Fish with pesto and vegetables
Petits fours
Beautiful cheesecake
Matcha mousse
Matcha green tea and chocolate mousse cups
Valrhona chocolate mousse
Vanilla creme brulee
California roll
Ceviche
Hummus with homemade sourdough bread
Fish tacos
Fish ceviche
Caprese salad
Contemporary neapolitan pizza
Gougeres filled with cream & gravlax
Smoked salmon carpaccio
Risotto with seafood
Fish with beurre blanc (butter sauce)
Fusion rolls
Japanese nigiri sushi your preference
French mousse cake
Homemade cookies
Beautiful cheesecake
Madeleines covered in chocolate
Valrhona chocolate mousse
- spring brochette, caprese style: tomato, mozzarella and basil, a classic! crowned with parmesan covered with balsamic. v,gf
- stuffed eggs: tuna or avocado, mayonnaise come together in an explosion of flavors. with soffritto, you can include cheeses. v,df,gf
- italian bruschetta: crispy toast crowned with a sautéed vegetable, mozzarella, prosciutto or caviar or salmon and parmesan. gf,df
- shrimp with prosciutto: seasoned with sweet paprika wrapped in prosciutto. gf,df
- big salad "insalatona": fresh combination of lettuce, arugula, tomato, carrots, radishes, cucumber and avocado. v,gf,df
- stuffed tomatoes: fresh and delicious tomatoes stuffed with a sautéed vegetable mixture, rice and mayonnaise. v,gf
- canapés: small and delicious typical italian tarts, with shrimp, salmon or avocado, ricotta and vegetables. v,df
- empanadas: delicious puff pastry with a filling of ground meat or chicken or fish, egg, veggies and lots of flavor. df
- margherita and 4 cheese small pizzas, made in italy, to enjoy with the family. v
- spinach frittata: italian appetizer, perfect fried mixture of egg, spinach, vegetables. possible version with mozzarella. v,gf,df
- citrus salad: unique explosion of flavors between arugula, cherry tomatoes, grapefruit, orange and tangerine. v,gf,df
- charcuterie board: assortment of cheeses and charcuteries for all tastes. gf
- genoese salad: arugula, prunes and prosciutto on a bed of fresh ricotta and topped with genovese pesto sauce. df
- emilian salad: simple combination of flavors between lettuce, tomatoes and red onion. v,gf,df
- uncle alfredo salad with arugula, red onion, green pepper, avocado and apple. v,gf,df
- milanesa and cheese board
- iberian chicken wings. gf
- penne all’arrabbiata: enjoy a touch of spicy peperoncino with tomato, parmesan, garlic and parsley sauce. v,gf,df
- pasta alla vodka: a little parmesan, tomato, heavy cream, onion, garlic, basil and vodka. v,gf
- spaghetti alla carbonara: roman pasta with egg yolk, parmesan and bacon, a perfect mix! that will blow your mind. gf,df
- riso ai funghi: scented rice with mushrooms and typical italian vegetables. v,gf,df
- spaghetti with speck or broccoli and arugula: creamy pasta from the italian mountains. v, df
- spaghetti al ragù: pasta with a delicious italian bolognese sauce. gf,df
- spaghetti al pesto: pasta garnished with a tasty ligurian pesto with fresh basil and parmesan. v,df
- potato gnocchi with asparagus: delicious gnocchetti topped with delicious asparagus cream sauce, vegetables and herbs. v,gf
- spaghetti boscaiole: all the flavor of the forest in a mushroom cream sauce along with onion, garlic, arugula and basil. v,gf,df
- four cheeses pasta: penne wrapped together with sauce of blue cheese, parmesan, cheddar and gouda. v,gf
- whole wheat spaghetti boscaioli with mushroom. v,df
- whole wheat spaghetti with herbs, broccoli and vegetables. v,df
- filet mignon with vegetables: mythical beef steak with intense flavor, crispy crust, juicy interior finished with vegetables. df,gf
- salmon with purée 3 colors: our favorite fish without a doubt. delicious portion of salmon with a carrot and potato puree. gf,df
- boneless chicken leg with orange juice: explosion of flavors, marinated with orange, paprika and along with vegetables. gf,df
- italian-style eggplant slices with roasted vegetables. v,gf,df
- roasted pork with egg and plums: baked ham stuffed with plums and egg, along with a fresh salad or vegetables. gf,df
- baked broccoli gratin with bechamel and parmesan. v,gf
- zucchini ripieni with vegetables. v,gf,df
- milanesa a caballo - horseback: tender breaded beef with potatoes and fried eggs. df
- scaloppine with vegetables. gf,df
- chicken supreme with vegetables. df
- lemon chicken breast scallopini with baked vegetables. gf,df
- one pizza for each vegetarian person: eggplant and honey, ortolana, margherita, funghi, 4 cheeses. v
- one pizza per person: peperoni, sausage, capricciosa, 4 stagioni, bismarck, prosciutto e parsley
- tiramisú: our signature dessert. mascarpone, coffee, lady fingers cookie, dark chocolate, eggs and sugar. v,gf,df
- chocolate mousse: popular creamy dessert loved by children and adults based on chocolate and eggs. v,gf,df
- nutella crepe: delicious french crepe, the original recipe. nutella will take you to italy. v,gf
- lemon sorbet: sorbet with a light and refreshing texture with fresh lemon. v,gf
- macedonia: seasonal fruits, put together to enjoy a healthy dessert. v,gf,df
- chocolate cake with nutella: dark chocolate cake filled with blueberry jam and fresh strawberries, topped with nutella. v,df
- m&m chocolate cake. v
Asparagus cream soup
Beef tartare
Burgers
Burrata with heirloom tomatoes
California roll
Caesar salad
Charcuterie board no pork
Ceviche
Caesar salad with shrimps
Cheese pizza
Chili beans soup
Charcuterie board
Fish with chimichurri sauce
Grilled steak with roasted vegetables
Pork tenderloin with roasted brussels sprouts
Lasagna (vegetarian)
Chicken marsala with pasta
Chocolate bonbons
Beautiful cheesecake
Fresh fruit with mango sauce
Gluten-free french cake
Homemade cookies
Assort sushi platter w/ assorted dips and sauces
Beef & potatoes empanadas. served with spicy aioli
Big sur rainbow salad..chopped romaine lettuce , roasted golden beets, thin sliced jicama, blackberries. infused olive oil dressing
Filet mignon stir fry with asparagus, scallions, peppers, fennel
Asado pork.. marinated roasted crispy pork shoulder
Congri.. traditional cuban black beans and rice
Tops vieji.. shredded beef with tomato sauce,
Farm fresh vegetables platter
Chocolate spores
Personalize your menu
A romantic dinner or a gathering of friends. Traditional dishes or exotic flavours. A fine dining experience or a family-style meal. Every private chef experience is unique! Submit your request and personalize yours.








Frequently asked questions
Below, you can find the most common questions about private chef services in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
What does a private chef service include in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
A private chef service includes everything necessary to enjoy a personalized dining experience at home. This includes:
- Customization of a menu based on your preferences;
- Purchase of ingredients;
- Mise en place (preparation of ingredients) before arrival;
- Preparation of the menu at your home;
- Complete table service;
- Set up and cleaning of the kitchen and used spaces.
Please note that tableware and glassware are not included. Gratuity is entirely at your discretion.
How much does a private chef cost in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
The price of renting a chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea can vary depending on the specifics, but smaller groups tend to have a slightly different price per person compared to larger gatherings.
Booking prices range from 163 USD to 327 USD. For groups of 13 people or more, the price is 163 USD per person. For groups of 7 to 12 people, the cost is 178 USD per person. For groups of 3 to 6 people, the rate is 112 USD per person, and for 2 people, the price is 327 USD per person.
Seasonal ingredients, your location, and how soon you book also affect the final price. If you're interested in getting free quotes with no obligation, fill out our form and let the best chefs near you send unique proposals for your event.
How can I hire a private chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Booking is easy! Just tell us the date of your event, number of guests, dietary preferences and any allergies, and a few details about your kitchen. Within a few hours, you'll receive customized menus from qualified chefs. Each chef's profile will include their experience, reviews, and photos of their dishes.
Feel free to chat directly with the chefs through our platform. Ask them to modify menus, discuss pricing, or get answers to any questions you might have. Once you've found the perfect chef and menu, finalize your reservation online. We'll then provide the chef's contact information to confirm any final details.
How can I find a private chef near me?
There are currently 59 chefs available in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea who will send you their menu proposals. You can then choose the chef and menu that suits you best.
Is there a maximum number of guests for a private chef service?
While there's no strict limit on guest count, private chef experiences are designed to create a more intimate atmosphere, perfect for gatherings of friends and family. Since most homes have limited space to accommodate large groups, parties typically don't exceed 15 people.
Does the chef cook at my house?
Yes, the chef always prepares the menu at your home for a more personalized experience. However, some prep work might be done beforehand for complex dishes.
Can I cook along with the chef?
Absolutely! Many guests are passionate about food and relish the chance to learn from the chef. You can pick up new kitchen skills and get a behind-the-scenes look at each dish on the menu. Feel free to jump in and cook alongside the chef for a truly interactive experience!
Are the ingredients fresh?
Yes, they're 100% fresh. Unlike restaurants with pre-made dishes, private chefs prioritize using the freshest ingredients possible. This is because the chef creates a customized menu specifically for you, then goes out and sources the finest ingredients to bring your chosen dishes to life.
Are drinks included in the personal chef service?
Drinks are not typically included, but you can discuss adding them to the menu proposal with the chef.
How much should I tip my private chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Tipping for private chefs is entirely at your discretion. Our goal is for you to have an unforgettable experience, and the chef always appreciates a nice tip. However, the decision and amount are completely up to you.
Key information about our chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Percentage of our women chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Percentage of services with kids in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Percentage of guests that hired a chef more than once.
Average number of days booked for multiple services at home with a private chef.
Photos uploaded to the platform by our private chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in Carmel-by-the-Sea each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In Carmel-by-the-Sea, for example, demand often increases during special dates like Valentine's Day or Mother's Day, so it's best to book in advance.
If you're wondering about the best time to hire a chef, any month is perfect for enjoying a private chef. Just keep in mind that prices may vary, especially for last-minute bookings. So, don't wait—book your chef early to secure your unique dining experience in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Cost of a private chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea
The cost of hiring a private chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea can vary based on several factors, including the number of people in your group or seasonality. Larger groups tend to have a different average rate per person compared to smaller groups that hire a chef:
Booking prices range from 163 USD to 327 USD per person.
For 13 people or more: 163 USD
For 7 to 12 people: 178 USD
For 3 to 6 people: 112 USD
For 2 people: 327 USD.
Additionally, prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year, location, and how soon you book your personal chef. If you want to get free quotes, just fill out our form and receive tailored proposals for your event. No committment at all.
What is the most reserved type of cuisine in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in Carmel-by-the-Sea: Mediterranean, Italian, French, Japanese, Mexican, and surprise. The type of cuisine with the highest number of bookings is the Chef's special, but you can have anything you want (our surprise menu will cover that!).
Beyond these six types of cuisine, our private chefs personalize diverse menus for their clients every day, adjusting every detail to find the perfect menu for every occasion and every group. Our private chefs can accommodate any allergy or dietary restriction and suggest other cuisines or fusion dishes. Submit your request and hire a chef in Carmel-by-the-Sea!

Enjoy a unique experience at home with a Private Chef
Want to give your partner a special romantic surprise? Want to enjoy a dinner with friends and fancy trying something different? Or maybe you want to organise a lovely meal for the whole family to celebrate that special occasion without anyone having to cook? Take a Chef allows you to transform your home into one of the best restaurants in town. The only difference is that the entire experience is built around you and your guests. Select the type of cuisine, choose the dates and enjoy the experience!

What is a Private Chef service in Carmel Highlands California?
The experience begins when you order a menu from Take a Chef. From that moment on, you become the protagonist of an event in which you decide what you want to eat and when you want to eat. Our Private Chefs at Carmel Highlands California will analyze your request and send you their proposals to adapt it to your tastes and close your menu definitively. On the day of the event, the Chef will buy the ingredients, cook them at home, carry out the table service and leave everything clean before leaving, so that you can enjoy.

Our Private Chefs go the extra mile
Take a Chef is all about creating a dining experience that is perfect for you. That’s why the menu is designed according to your preferences. We know that finding the right chef to suit your needs is crucial. All of our chefs have been trained in prominent culinary schools and have a decade of experience in the industry. To make sure that everything is to your liking, you’ll be able to view a detailed profile of each chef that contacts you with a menu proposal. Then you can communicate with them directly to make any changes. Just click the button below to get started!






Talk to our chefs in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Each of our chefs is one-of-a-kind, with professional culinary training and years of experience in diverse restaurants. Craving Italian pasta, Spanish paella, or traditional sushi in Carmel-by-the-Sea? You’ll get it. Tell us about your event in Carmel-by-the-Sea, and discover the best chefs who will customize every detail of your experience.









