Private Chef in Merrillville
Rent one of our 116 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in Merrillville
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in Merrillville in March 2017, more than 116 Private Chefs have joined our platform in Merrillville and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in Lake County.
Starting in 2017, 9,376 guests have already enjoyed a chef in Merrillville. To book your chef in Merrillville, 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 2,667 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 18,332 messages to their guests, who rated their experience with an average score of 4.76 out of 5.
Since the first dinner provided by Take a Chef, 9,376 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in Merrillville usually book menus around 172 USD per person, including 3.9 courses, sharing an average of 3.48 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 Merrillville.












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!
116 Private Chefs in Merrillville
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in Merrillville












More than 9,300 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4.57 Chef
The guests in Merrillville have scored the experience with their Private Chef with a 4.57.
4.75 Food quality
The quality of the menus cooked by our Private Chefs in Merrillville received an average score of 4.75.
4.73 Presentation
Not only taste counts! The presentation of our private chefs' dishes has received a 4.73 average score.
4.89 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in Merrillville has been scored with a 4.89 on average.
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2,667 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in Merrillville
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








French onion soup
Salad lyonnaise
Ratatouille
Coq au vin
Chocolate mousse
Crème brûlée
Grilled italian bread with ricotta and tomato jam
Spinach and mushroom flatbread
Fried eggplant with basil pesto aioli
Tuscan garlic white bean dip with crostini
Tomato bruschetta on italian bread topped with aged balsamic glaze
Broccolini with parmesan and crispy garlic chips topped with extra virgin olive oil
Garlic cheese bread topped with sundried tomato
Meatless meatballs with roasted garlic sauce
Antipasto skewers- olives, artichokes, tomatoes, cheese
Caprese salad- fresh mozzarella, basil, cherry tomatoes
Classic caesar salad- romaine lettuce, parmesan, croutons
Summer farro salad- farro, mint, cucumber, strawberry , citrus vinaigrette
Mixed greens, pickled beets, red onions, ricotta, sunflower seeds
Chicken marsala
Chef's special of the day
Pan seared cod with salsa verde served with grilled peppers and asparagus
Fresh pasta of the day with vodka creamy sauce
Grilled skirt steak with polenta and green beans topped with italian chimichurri
Green pea and mushroom risotto
Vanilla gelato with chocolate syrup and chocolate chips
Chocolate mousse with pistachios
Zabaglione with berries
Italian lemon cheesecake
Fruit sorbet of the day
Zeppole with powdered sugar
Peperonata (stewed peppers with balsamic, basil, and mint)
Prosciutto wrapped figs with goat cheese, honey, and thyme
Acorn squash soup with turmeric and ginger
Mediterranean cucumber and tomato salad
Chickpea salad
Baked cod with lemon and garlic
Feta shrimp skillet
Greek roasted chicken and potatoes
Moroccan chickpea stew
Greek spaghetti
Apple cinnamon bursts
Cannoli
Pumpkin parfait
Prawn fennel and blood orange tartare with garlic crisp
Pan-seared monkfish with butter-poached and charred cauliflower, romesco, and sauce bonnefoy
Lobster and ricotta filled pasta with paprika, saffron and sauce fine herbs
Seafood paella
Herb crusted rack of lamb with couscous stir fry, pomegranate & harissa jus
Spiced chocolate gelato with kumquat marmalade and sherry infused whipped mascarpone
1.fried potato and cheese empanadas with spicy aioli
2.beet salad ceviche with tostadas and salsa macha
3.creamy garlic hummus with carrots and cucumber
4. charred eggplant crostini with pomegranate syrup
5.pan con tomate
6. potato croquette with smoked aioli
7.charred shishito peppers with ponzu aioli
8. chefs surprised item
9.chef's special of the day
1.mixed greens with cucumber, red onion, mint and greek dressing
2.romaine lettuce with radishes, avocado, tomatoes and cilantro-lime dressing
3.mixed greens with red onion, corn, queso fresco and spicy honey dressing
4.chefs surprise item
5.chefs surprised item
1.miso cauliflower steak with polenta and roasted pepper sauce
2.grilled steak with romesco sauce and roasted vegetables
3. herbed chicken with green beans and roasted potatoes
4. fish of the day with chimichurri and grilled vegetables
6.chef's special of the day
1. vanilla creme brulee with glazed berries and dehydrated berries
2.arroz con leche with candied nuts and berries
3. gelato of the day with almond dust
4. vanilla cheesecake with blueberry sauce
5. chef´s surprised item
6. chef's special of the day
Nori wrapped tuna tempura- red caviar, chives, wasabi creme, siracha, asian slaw
Grilled king trumpet mushroom w/sherry vinaigrette, chives and hazelnuts
Szechuan dan dan noodles w/ground pork (spicy)
Kickass guacamole w/pomegranate, radish and fresh chips
Grilled crab cake, herb salad, tangerine, marcona almonds, lemon-pepper aioli
Amuse bouche tbd. this is on me, pls choose 2 other dishes
Grilled octopus, crushed fingerling potatoes, mirepoix vegetables, basil oil, tomato oil
Arancini stuffed w/butternut squash and goat cheese w/san marzano marinara
Salmon tartare- ginger, tobiko, avocado, jalapeno, crisp won ton skins
Smothered scampi on grilled ciabatta
Thai grilled chicken skewer, tamarind-red curry-coconut sauce
Sesame seared halloumi cheese w/aleppo pepper and warmed greek honey
Dukkah lavosh- preserved lemon, crispy artichoke, roasted tomatoes, avocado, manouri cheese
Tortilla española- caramelized onions, potatoes, spicy chorizo
Spanakopita- spinach, feta, phyllo
Composed salad of mango, avocado, snow crab, grilled asparagus, avocado, hearts of palm, toasted pine nut vinaigrette
Heirloom tomatoes caprese, grilled burrata and radicchio, basil, xvoo, saba, sea salt
Choice of ribolitta- hearty tuscan (mainly vegetable) soup or butternut squash-gala apple soup w/creme friache and chives or lobster bisque w/cognac
Roasted beet napoleon- honey-goat cheese, spiced walnuts, pomegranate, micro greens, brunoise vegs
Grilled asparagus, roasted beet, course herbed bread crumbs, raspberry-walnut vinaigrette
Green goddess wedge, bacon lardons, pickled red onion, roasted peppers
Soft lettuces, micro greens, grilled asparagus, oil cured olives, charred shallots, scallions, radish, manouri cheese ranch dressing
Bacon-green apple- roasted shallot crusted salmon, mashed potatoes, lemon beurre blanc
Surf and turf w/sliced tenderloin and scampi, smashed redskins, grilled asparagus
Chicken saltimbocca- stuffed w/parma prosciutto, sage and smoked mozzarella over angelhair
Snapper st. martin w/lemon, bananas and almonds, tomato couscous
Seared tuscan steak (or tuna) over arugula w/rosemary roasted potatoes, dry braised mushrooms, fried shallots and shaved parmesan drizzled w/ xvoo
Fire roasted pequillo pepper stuffed w/duck, goat cheese and toasted pine nuts w/verde sauce and black beans and rice
Slow braised lamb ragout w/mirepoix vegetables and olives over buttered noodles
Pork au poivre- sous vide pork tenderloin w/roquefort potatoes, carrots vichy, green peppercorn sauce
Steak pizzaiola w/mushrooms, peppers, tomato and oregano over grilled ciabatta w/mozzarella
Zabaglione made to order, served warm over macerated fruits w/mint
Old fashion banana pudding w/nilla wafers
Toasted coconut mochi cake, matcha whipped cream
Bittersweet chocolate torte, hazelnut whipped cream
Creme friache cheesecake w/graham cracker crust and strawberry coulis
Peanut butter pie w/chocolate sauce
Passionfruit mousse, mandarin tapioca
I make meyer limoncello and would be glad to pour you and iced shot with dessert (on me)
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
Amuse bouche- gorgonzola crouton w/sliced apple and truffle let's start w/this and choose 2 other dishes
Italian sausage w/porcini mushrooms, fermented black garlic, peppers, onions, fried potatoes
Risotto rosso- roasted red pepper, grilled radicchio, red vermouth, asparagus, corn, smoked mozzarella
Grilled polenta w/escarole and white beans
Bruschetta of seared fava beans, aged parm, shallots, dry chile flake, lemon zest, xvoo
Parma prosciutto stuffed w/arugula, fig, lemon and goat cheese
Crab stuffed mushrooms w/basil aioli
Frutti di mare- shrimp, scallops, mussels and calamari w/salsa verde
Cauliflower puttanesca- oil cured olives, capers, sun dried tomatoes, calabrian chile, basil
Asst salumi's and cheeses w/garni platter
Swordfish involtini w/saffron, orange, currants and capers
Fregula sarda- toasted sardinian pasta w/fennel, sausage ragu and sheep's milk cheese
Choice of ribolitta- hearty tuscan (mainly vegetable) soup or butternut squash-gala apple soup w/creme friache and chives
Antipasto salad- roasted peppers, olives, crispy artichoke, genoa salami, scallions, provolone, herbed croutons, balsamic vinaigrette
Roasted beet napoleon- honey-goat cheese, spiced walnuts, pomegranate, micro greens, brunoise vegs
Arugula, watercress, radish, radicchio, grapefruit, avocado, asiago, sunflower seeds, balsamic vinaigrette
Heirloom tomatoes caprese, grilled burrata and radicchio, basil, xvoo, saba, sea salt
Seared tuscan steak (or tuna) over arugula w/rosemary roasted potatoes, dry braised mushrooms, fried shallots and shaved parmesan drizzled w/ xvoo
Grilled swordfish w/sicilian relish, caramelized cauliflower, rosemary potatoes, salsa verde
Chicken saltimbocca- stuffed w/parma prosciutto, sage and smoked mozzarella over angelhair
Slow roasted lamb ragu over creamy polenta
Seared scallops w/guancale, chives, parmigiana and beurre blanc over potato puree
Grilled brined pork chop, spicy calabrese peppers, roasted broccoli, linguine aglio y olio
Seared shrimp, grilled asparagus, basmati rice w/toasted vermicelli w/sambuca-tarragon sauce
Zabaglione made to order, served warm over macerated fruits w/mint
Tiramisu
Lemon-ricotta cheesecake w/strawberry coulis
Cassata alla siciliana w/apricot, orange, raisins and nuts, amaretto whipped cream
Bittersweet chocolate torte, hazelnut whipped cream, raspberry coulis
Pignoli cookies w/nutella milkshake
Banana budino w/torched granola crust
I make meyer limoncello and would be glad to pour you and iced shot with dessert (on me)
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 Merrillville.
What does a private chef service include in Merrillville?
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 Merrillville?
The price of renting a chef in Merrillville 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 113 USD to 133 USD. For groups of 13 people or more, the price is 113 USD per person. For groups of 7 to 12 people, the cost is 113 USD per person. For groups of 3 to 6 people, the rate is 135 USD per person, and for 2 people, the price is 133 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 Merrillville?
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 116 chefs available in Merrillville. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in Merrillville 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 Merrillville?
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 Merrillville
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in Merrillville
Percentage of our women chefs in Merrillville.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in Merrillville.
Percentage of services with kids in Merrillville.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in Merrillville.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in Merrillville.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in Merrillville.
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 Merrillville.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in Merrillville each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In Merrillville, 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 Merrillville.
Cost of a private chef in Merrillville
The cost of hiring a private chef in Merrillville 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 113 USD to 133 USD per person.
For 13 people or more: 113 USD
For 7 to 12 people: 113 USD
For 3 to 6 people: 135 USD
For 2 people: 133 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.
Private chefs registrations
After many years of offering our services, we are lucky to have a fantastic team of chefs that keeps growing in Merrillville!
1 personal chefs register with us every month. Our verification team reviews these new chef profiles daily to categorize them, allowing you to discover incredible new chefs every month.
What is the most reserved type of cuisine in Merrillville?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in Merrillville: 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 Merrillville!






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









