Private Chef in McAllen
Rent one of our 23 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in McAllen
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in McAllen in April 2016, more than 23 Private Chefs have joined our platform in McAllen and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in Hidalgo County.
Starting in 2016, 45,389 guests have already enjoyed a chef in McAllen. To book your chef in McAllen, 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 10,497 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 16,911 messages to their guests, who rated their experience with an average score of 4.72 out of 5.
Since the first dinner provided by Take a Chef, 45,389 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in McAllen usually book menus around 180.1 USD per person, including 4.46 courses, sharing an average of 5.24 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 McAllen.












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.
23 Private Chefs in McAllen
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in McAllen












More than 45,300 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4.47 Chef
The guests in McAllen have scored the experience with their Private Chef with a 4.47.
4.76 Food quality
The quality of the menus cooked by our Private Chefs in McAllen received an average score of 4.76.
4.72 Presentation
Not only taste counts! The presentation of our private chefs' dishes has received a 4.72 average score.
4.83 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in McAllen has been scored with a 4.83 on average.
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10,497 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in McAllen
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








Amuse bouche (example- tartine, ahi tuna, preserved egg yolk aioli, smoked trout roe, sourdough)
-lobster & squash, butter poached lobster, avocado, lime, lightly smoked kabocha squash bisque
-gem lettuces spanish anchovy, sour dough croutons, parmigiano ring, truffle-lemon dressing
-fillet mignon, asparagus, morel mushroom, marrow butter & barolo sauce
-preserved lemon risotto for the table
-camembert, fig jam, grisini & pepper
Edamame with sea salt
Wakame seaweed salad with sesame
Japanese cucumber salad (sunomono)
Spring rolls, small fried rolls made with crispy dough, filled with vegetables, served with a slightly spicy sweet and sour sauce
Sautéed octopus
Shrimp sautéed in butter and garlic, served with lightly toasted bread with herbs
Nigiri • bluefin tuna
Nigiri salmon
Nigiri yellowtail
Nigiri shrimp
Scallop
Sashimi platter • bluefin tuna
Sashimi salmon
Sashimi yellowtail
Sashimi hamachi toro
Sashimi scallop
Miso soup
Chef’s special rolls • truffle hamachi roll
Seared salmon with yuzu and crispy garlic
Signature rolls • spicy tuna roll
Salmon avocado roll
California roll
Crunchy shrimp tempura roll
Dragon roll (eel, avocado, cucumber, sweet soy glaze)
Rainbow roll
Lobster roll with spicy aioli
Hot items • shrimp tempura
Vegetable tempura
Vegetable yakisoba (shrimp or chicken options available) - stir-fried spaghetti with a soy-based sauce and selected ingredients
- apple pie
Apple strudel with ice cream
Cheesecake morango (strawberry cheesecake)
Panna cotta with berry compote creamy vanilla panna cotta topped with seasonal berries
Pudding dessert mediterranean made with cottage cheese, pumpkin and orange jam
Petit gateau chocolate
Green tea or black sesame mousse
Fresh fruit platter
Mochi ice cream
Dungeness crab & avocado tartlet
Grilled shrimp skewers
Smoked salmon crostini
Tabbouleh (vegetarian)
Risotto ai funghi (vegetarian)
Shrimp baja taco
Nigiri tour (tuna, yellowtail, salmon, scallop)
Seafood paella
Grilled sea bass
Grilled halibut with saffron quinoa
Vegetarian paella (vegetarian)
Crème brûlée
Olive oil & almond cake
Matcha mousse
Soy seared halibut cheeks with citrus butter on green onion radish kimchi salad
Ahi mango avocado stack, ginger tamari sesame
Shiso scallops on rice cake with plum sauce
Thai chicken skewers
Vietnamese meat balls on crispy rice
Crispy pork belly wonton
Soup dumplings
Nigiri sushi
Miso soup with carrot radish ginger salad
Vietnamese wonton sesame salad
Simple wonton soup
Duck soup and duck salad
Sweet corn and shitake soup
Thai pork belly salad with sesame dressing
Sesame kale salad with avocado
Cucumber and cabbage salad with mango lime vinaigrette
Lemongrass short ribs, purple potato purée, braised broccolini
Tahini salmon with tempura vegetables
Soy seared halibut cheeks on sticky rice with citrus butter on green onion radish kimchi salad
Steamed fish with ginger, scallions and soy sauce. coriander rice
Suon nuong (grilled pork chops) with rice and fried egg
Korean bbq tofu on scallion rice and green beans
Citrus glazed chicken baked on sticky rice
Ramen (choose from pork belly to vegetarian)
The asian vegan bowl. sesame tofu, avocado, sesame dressing, stickyrice, cucumber, radish salad, edamame, sweet potato
Vegangyoza and tempura vegetables (sweet potato, onion rings, green beans, zucchini)
Kobucha gratin
Chicken green curry and pumpkin
Beef negimaki on umami rice with green onions
Passion fruit and coconut sorbet
Chai tea creme brulee
Mango sticky rice
Ma lai go (steamed sweet cake) with vanilla cream
Mango coconut banana cream ice cream
Japaneses cotton cheesecake
(included) amuse bouche ~ chef curated seasonal dish
Seasonal fish crudo ~ citrus-cured, cucumber ribbons, quinoa crisp, lemon oil, seasonal finds
Strawberry gazpacho - chilled strawberries & tomato, basil oil, fennel tuile, chili honey drizzle
Seasonal salad ~ lettuces and charred fruit, whipped burrata, aleppo-honey vinaigrette, candied sunflower
Smoked potato espuma ~ airy potato mousse, braised leeks, crispy shards, black garlic oil
Season mosaic ~ grilled farmers market finds, pine nut emulsion, aleppo pepper oil (v, gf)
Porcini risotto ~ carnaroli rice, truffle jus, roasted fennel, cocoa nib crunch
Lobster fra diabolo ~ house ravioli, lobster filling, spicy tomato-saffron cream, pickled shallot
Duck agnolotti ~ confit filling, sage butter, amaretti crumble
Leek & potato veloute ~ silky soup, smoked egg yolk, crispy leek threads
Gnocchi ~ potato gnocchi, charred zucchini, almond cream, aleppo oil (v, gf)
Ny strip steak ~ black garlic marinated, silky potato mousseline, charred farmers market finds, sauce trio
Catch of the day ~ white fish fillet, gremolata couscous, roasted zucchini, pickled sultanas, table-side parsley cream
Duck breast ~ smoked pear, marsala shallots, potato croquette, mulberry duck jus
Iberico pork ~ roasted fennel, romesco cream, caramelized shallots, hazelnut crumb
Squash ~ wild mushroom cream, tomato confit, herb emulsion, crispy quinoa (v, gf)
Basil panna cotta ~ mascarpone cream, pistachio crunch, blackberry compote
Mille-crepe cake ~ layered crêpes, white chocolate & rose creameaux, summer berries, 24k gold (birthday cake recommendation)
Tout le chocolat ~ white chocolate cream, bitter chocolate cake, golden almond rocks, table-side cocoa pour
Lemon tart ~ bergamot graham base, citrus custard, brûléed meringue
Sorbet sundae ~ seasonal fruit sorbet, candied citrus, plant based vanilla chantilly, hazelnut tuile (v, gf)
(optional) luxury experience package per guest: includes all tableware such as chargers, plates, silverware, water and wine glasses, linen napkins and napkin rings, custom printed menus
Fresh chips and guacamole classic style with house salsas from scratch
Avocado and citrus salad with arugula, red onion and japanese mint
Cilantro rice - classic green cilantro rice with cumin and onion
Corn tortillas hecho a mano (by hand from scratch)
Striped sea bass la paz - with garlic, oregano, myer lemon, jalapeños and olive oil
Shrimp skewers - with herbs, chiles and roja dipping sauce
Grilled baja oysters - estilo baja sur with grilled lemon and herbs
Chicken tinga - shredded chicken in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce. an ensenada classic
Assorted fresh baked mexican pastries with candied tajin pecans and polincillo cresmoso
Pot sticker with spicy lemon dipping sauce
Shrimp lettuce: cajun marinated shrimp, scallion, cilantro, jicama, peanuts & sesame miso dressing
Chicken lettuce cup: 5 spiced marinated chicken, ginger, scallion, cilantro, jicama, peanuts & ginger soy vinaigrette
Black pepper new york steak: garlic butter rice, baby bok choy, wild mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, pan glazed sauce
Pan roasted new zealand cod: garlic butter rice, baby bok choy, wild mushrooms, soy glazed, ginger scallion salad
Coconut bread pudding, grean tea ice cream & walnut dust
Green tea dusted cheesecake, starberries reduction & walnut dust
Lemon panna cotta, graham crackers, berries & coulis
Chocolate chocolate mousse cake: berries, berries coulis
Garlic prawns with piri piri chili oil
Fresh ceviche with tostadas
Crispy rice with ahi tuna chili sushi
Spinach salad with cranberries and lemon vinaigrette (vegetarian)
Mexican chipachole (seafood stew with crab legs)
Shrimp spring rolls with sesame aioli dipping sauce
Grilled elote salad with cotija cheese and seared lime (vegetarian)
Roasted butternut squash soup with organic parsley yogurt (vegetarian)
Lemon marscapone spaghetti with seared scallops
Garlic butter sea scallops
Broiled maine lobster tail with wild rice pilaf
Vegetarian: gnocchi with butternut and sage sauce
Chef's famous tiramisu
Strawberry kiwi pavlova
Chocolate mousse with raspberries
Salted caramel cheesecake with berries and sugared mint
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 McAllen.
What does a private chef service include in McAllen?
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 McAllen?
The price of renting a chef in McAllen 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 116 USD to 143 USD. For groups of 13 people or more, the price is 116 USD per person. For groups of 7 to 12 people, the cost is 121 USD per person. For groups of 3 to 6 people, the rate is 127 USD per person, and for 2 people, the price is 143 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 McAllen?
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 23 chefs available in McAllen. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in McAllen 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 McAllen?
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 McAllen
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in McAllen
Percentage of our women chefs in McAllen.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in McAllen.
Percentage of services with kids in McAllen.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in McAllen.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in McAllen.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in McAllen.
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 McAllen.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in McAllen each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In McAllen, 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 McAllen.
Cost of a private chef in McAllen
The cost of hiring a private chef in McAllen 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 116 USD to 143 USD per person.
For 13 people or more: 116 USD
For 7 to 12 people: 121 USD
For 3 to 6 people: 127 USD
For 2 people: 143 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 McAllen?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in McAllen: 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 McAllen!

Enjoy a unique Private Chef experience in McAllen
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 organize 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 experience?
All of our chefs have at least ten years’ worth of experience in the industry and have graduated from the best cooking schools. So our goal is to find the perfect chef for you and to make this the best dining experience. With over 40 chefs in McAllen, we know we can find the right match for you! Once you receive menu proposals, you’ll be able to view the professional profiles of each chef who has contacted you and choose the one that suits you. At this point, you’ll also be able to contact them directly through our messaging service to make sure that every detail is to your liking.

In McAllen you have to choose an original plan
Increasingly, it changes the way we enjoy culinary experiences. It is time to feel new emotions through food dishes. A dinner can become a cooking party, where you can learn how to prepare each of the dishes in the menu chosen. Enjoy the sophisticated cuisine with Chefs trained in the best restaurants in the country.






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









