Private Chef in Des Moines
Rent one of our 14 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in Des Moines
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in Des Moines in December 2017, more than 14 Private Chefs have joined our platform in Des Moines and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in Polk County.
Starting in 2017, 3,867 guests have already enjoyed a chef in Des Moines. To book your chef in Des Moines, 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 194 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 462 messages to their guests, who rated their experience with an average score of 4.8 out of 5.
Since the first dinner provided by Take a Chef, 3,867 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in Des Moines usually book menus around 178.9 USD per person, including 4.07 courses, sharing an average of 6.01 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 Des Moines.












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.
14 Private Chefs in Des Moines
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in Des Moines












More than 3,800 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4.67 Chef
The guests in Des Moines have scored the experience with their Private Chef with a 4.67.
4.67 Food quality
The quality of the menus cooked by our Private Chefs in Des Moines received an average score of 4.67.
4.67 Presentation
Not only taste counts! The presentation of our private chefs' dishes has received a 4.67 average score.
5 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in Des Moines has been scored with a 5 on average.
View full review
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194 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in Des Moines
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








Charred edamame with smoked maldon salt
Miso soup with mushrooms, seaweed and scallions
Shishito peppers with spicy aioli and lemon
Grilled miso carrots with edamame hummus
Vegetable gyoza with chili crisp and ponzu
Spicy fried tofu, avocado relish, fresno chili
Cauliflower tempura, smoked chili aioli, crispy onions
Fried vegetable egg rolls with oyster sauce aioli
Cauliflower ceviche served with tostadas and salsa macha
Salt massaged raw eggplant salad with miso dressing topped with pomegranate
Seaweed and ginger salad
Wood ear mushrooms salad and shaved carrots
Japanese cucumber salad with cilantro and mint
Curried udon noodles with grilled chicken
Stone bowl beef rice with assorted vegetables
Chicken ramen bowl with chili oil
Miso skirt steak with grilled asparagus and sweet potatoes topped with asian chimichurri
Tuna sushi maki roll with oyster sauce, citrus aioli, cucumber, jalapenos
Pan fried fish of the day with sticky rice and grilled zucchini topped with ponzu sauce
Green tea creme brulee with strawberries
Gelato with sesame brittle
Cheesecake with grilled peaches
Sorbet of the day with togarashi and honey
Soy milk ice cream with poached pears and black sesame
Mochi of chefs choice with a soy glaze reduction and berries
Avocado bruschetta and herb cream cheese stuffed peppadew peppers drizzled with balsamic glazek
Asiago baked shrimp with warm bread
Summer vegetable baked salmon with lemon cream sauce
Fresh linguine pasta with sausage & peppers
Starwberry tiramisu
• sicilian arancini |arborio rice stuffed with mozzarella, bolognese meat and tiny peas)
Burrata with heirloom cherry tomatoes, basil oil, aged balsamic reduction & toasted focaccia
Fresh linguine tossed tableside inside a wheel of imported parmigiano reggiano, emulsified with european butter and pasta water, finished with cracked black pepper
Herb-crusted filet mignon or mediterranean branzino with lemon caper beurre blanc
Served with roasted seasonal vegetables
Classic tiramisu with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream
Chef's choice bread: truffle butter, tomato jam, cheese
Sweet tomato savory tart: tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, savory crust
Beef tartare: quail egg, scallions, shallots, capers, maldon salt
Caramelized onion crostini: onions, herbs, gruyere, figs, honey
Smoked salmon brioche: dill, tobiko, salmon, bread, boursin cheese
Mixed greens salad: cucumbers, pickled red onions, blue cheese, honey champagne vinaigrette, sunflower seeds
Endive salad: endives, citrus fruit, cucumber, mint, walnuts, mustard dressing
French salad: romaine lettuce, blue cheese, tomatoes, crispy pancetta, red onion, red wine vinaigrette
Summer salad: mixed greens, strawberry, radishes, snow peas, champagne vinaigrette, candied almonds
Heirloom salad: tomatoes, brie cheese, olives, smoked maldon salt, sourdough croutons, pesto dressing
Coq au vin: chicken, red wine, herbs, lardons, mushrooms
Filet mignon: beef tenderloin, peppercorn assortment, cauliflower puree, herbed compound butter, haricot vert
Scallops: pan-seared scallops, beurre blanc, caramelized carrot puree, grilled asparagus
Catch of the day: fish, herbs, cream, blue cheese, roasted potatoes, zucchini
Chocolate mousse: mixed berries, chocolate syrup, topped with pistachios
Crème brûlée: lemon, vanilla, cream, burnt sugar, dehydrated strawberries
Flourless chocolate cake: whipped cream, apricot jam, chocolate
Summer tart: lemon curd, seasonal berries, mint, basil
Poached pears: prosecco, star anise, cinnamon, pear, gelato
Arancini- arborio rice, roasted tomato sauce, 24 month aged parmesan, garlic chips
Grilled italian bread- bread, borgonzola, prosciutto, truffle balsamic glaze
Marinated shrimp- shrimp, calabrian chili crisp, supreme orange, orange zest, cyprus salt
Italian meatballs-beef, pecorino, basil pesto aioli, garlic, breadcrumbs
Stuffed mushrooms- portobello, artichokes, parsley, garlic, mozzarella
Pepperoni flatbread with hot honey and ricotta topped with basil
Fried calamari with preserved lemons and chili oil
Heirloom tomato bruschetta with truffle oil and maldon salt
Crispy brussel sprouts with pecorino, lemon zest and crispy bacon bits
1. caesar salad- romaine lettuce, charred lemon, anchovies, sourdough croutons, pickled red onions
2. caprese salad- heirloom tomatoes, basil, fresh mozzarella, aged balsamic vinaigrette
3. roasted beet salad- arugula, beets, citrus vinaigrette, whipped ricotta, candied pistachios
4. classic chopped- tomatoes, lettuce, green goddess, crispy prosciutto
5. mixed greens, hazelnuts, lemon olive oil, goat cheese, aged balsamic, orange supreme
1. pasta bolognese- fresh pasta, cream, vodka, italian sausage, onions, herbs
2. grilled herbed chicken- chicken, herbs, polenta, zucchini, capers, butter
3. shrimp ravioli- shrimp, cream, lemon, peas, ,crispy breadcrumbs
4. grilled ny strip steak risotto- steak, butter, garlic, parmesan, pecorino, arborio rice, truffle oil
5. gnocchi with roasted garlic tomato sauce topped with aged parmesan
6. linguine with clams, fermented garlic, lemon butter, white wine
1. strawberry tiramisu- fresh cookies, dehydrated strawberries, mascarpone, whipped cream
2. chocolate cake served with homemade gelato- chocolate, ice cream, sugar, vanilla
3. coconut panna cotta- berries, prosecco, charred grapes, agar agar, vanilla, toasted coconut
4. affogato- ice cream, espresso, chocolate syrup or berry syrup
5. sorbet of the day with honey and
6. chocolate cannoli with organic cacao and cinnamon sugar
Eggplant rollatini parmigiana
Caponata antipasto (vegetarian)
Wild mushroom risotto balls (vegetarian)
Sicilian arancini |arborio rice stuffed with mozzarella, bolognese meat and tiny peas)
Agnolotti carbonara
Creamy tomato soup and basil served on mini cheese bread crust
Roasted carrot & ginger soup (vegetarian)
Creamy wild mushroom soup
Lobster & corn risotto – creamy risotto with lobster chunks and sweet corn. asparagus and zucchini with caramelized onions
Eggplant lasagna with bolognese (impossible meat) (vegetarian)
Atlantic salmon with cherry tomatoes & basil cream, risotto & asparagus
Risotto di mare with shrimp, calamari, mussels & clams
Chicken saltimbocca | scalloppini of chicken with prosciutto, sage and mozzarella cheese with wine sauce, pasta penne and carrots caramelized
Atlantic salmon filet with lemon and capers butter sauce, with risotto fungi, roasted vegetabled
Cannelloni scampi di mare| shrimp, fresh mozzarella and ricotta cheeses blended and stuffed into the pasta rolled pasta sheets. oven baked and covered creamy cardinale lobster sauce
Bronzini filet with lemon and capers butter sauce, with risotto fungi, roasted vegetables
Classic tiramisu
Vanilla crème brulee
Limoncello mascarpone cake
Warm chocolate lava cake, with vanilla ice cream & fresh berries
Charred edamame with smoked maldon salt
Miso soup with mushrooms, seaweed and scallions
Shishito peppers with spicy aioli and lemon
Grilled miso carrots with edamame hummus
Vegetable gyoza with chili crisp and ponzu
Spicy fried tofu, avocado relish, fresno chili
Cauliflower tempura, smoked chili aioli, crispy onions
Fried vegetable egg rolls with oyster sauce aioli
Cauliflower ceviche served with tostadas and salsa macha
Salt massaged raw eggplant salad with miso dressing topped with pomegranate
Seaweed and ginger salad
Wood ear mushrooms salad and shaved carrots
Japanese cucumber salad with cilantro and mint
Curried udon noodles with grilled chicken
Stone bowl beef rice with assorted vegetables
Chicken ramen bowl with chili oil
Miso skirt steak with grilled asparagus and sweet potatoes topped with asian chimichurri
Tuna sushi maki roll with oyster sauce, citrus aioli, cucumber, jalapenos
Pan fried fish of the day with sticky rice and grilled zucchini topped with ponzu sauce
Green tea creme brulee with strawberries
Gelato with sesame brittle
Cheesecake with grilled peaches
Sorbet of the day with togarashi and honey
Soy milk ice cream with poached pears and black sesame
Mochi of chefs choice with a soy glaze reduction and berries
Amuse bouche- organic medjool date stuffed w/gorgonzola and toasted almonds
Guacamole w/pomegranate and radish, fresh made chips
Cold poached salmon w/cucumber-dill sauce
Grilled thai chicken skewer w/red curry - coconut sauce
Crudo of grilled portabella w/fennel pollen, radish, chives, blood orange, edible flowers, salsa verde
Bacon wrapped shrimp stuffed w/water chestnut and jalapeño, apricot-horseradish dipping sauce
Baba ganouj w/lentils, herbs and warm toasted lavash
Multiple greens, orange, fennel, manuri cheese, charred knob onion, sunflower seeds, balsamic-mustard vinaigrette
Wedge salad w/bacon lardons, oven-dried tomato, roasted peppers, warm polenta croutons, green goddess dressing
Grilled crab cakes, herb salad, lemon chile aioli
Grilled marinated lamb rack chops, balsamic-honey-mint sauce
10 vegetable orzo pialf w/asiago, ginger and mint
Lemon-ricotta cheesecake w/raspberry coulis
Tiramisu w/espresso, mascarpone and cocoa
Bittersweet chocolate-orange-kahlua mousse w/asst garni
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 Des Moines.
What does a private chef service include in Des Moines?
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 Des Moines?
The price of renting a chef in Des Moines 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 136 USD to 170 USD. For groups of 13 people or more, the price is 136 USD per person. For groups of 7 to 12 people, the cost is 138 USD per person. For groups of 3 to 6 people, the rate is 169 USD per person, and for 2 people, the price is 170 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 Des Moines?
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 14 chefs available in Des Moines. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in Des Moines 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 Des Moines?
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 Des Moines
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in Des Moines
Percentage of our women chefs in Des Moines.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in Des Moines.
Percentage of services with kids in Des Moines.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in Des Moines.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in Des Moines.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in Des Moines.
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 Des Moines.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in Des Moines each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In Des Moines, 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 Des Moines.
Cost of a private chef in Des Moines
The cost of hiring a private chef in Des Moines 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 136 USD to 170 USD per person.
For 13 people or more: 136 USD
For 7 to 12 people: 138 USD
For 3 to 6 people: 169 USD
For 2 people: 170 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 Des Moines?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in Des Moines: 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 Des Moines!

Why not try a Private Chef service in Des Moines?
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!

Invite one of Des Moines’s best Private Chefs into your home
We work with many chefs who have experience in top restaurants, gastronomic bars, luxury hotels and more. You’ll be able to view the details of each chef’s training and experience once they send you a menu proposal. However, no matter which chef you choose, we guarantee that you’re in good hands: all of our chefs have at least a decade of experience under their belt and have been trained in top culinary schools. As soon as you receive a menu, we’ll put you in touch with the chef so that you can sort out all the details and make sure everything is to your liking!

A Private Chef in Des Moines is a different plan
The best and most original plans are those that surprise you from the first moment and do not stop until the end. They are even engraved in the memory. This is the philosophy of Take a Chef. With a personalized service to 100%, showcooking, gastronomic advice, possibility to know in first person how your menu is elaborated. The French, Asian or Mediterranean cuisines can make a dent in your table, with a very different view of one of our Private Chefs.






Talk to our chefs in Des Moines
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 Des Moines? You’ll get it. Tell us about your event in Des Moines, and discover the best chefs who will customize every detail of your experience.









