Private Chef in Monterey County
Rent one of our 16 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in Monterey County
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in Monterey County in March 2019, more than 16 Private Chefs have joined our platform in Monterey County and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in Monterey County.
Starting in 2019, 113,704 guests have already enjoyed a chef in Monterey County. To book your chef in Monterey County, 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 31,843 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 72,457 messages to their guests, who rated their experience with an average score of 4.7 out of 5.
Since the first dinner provided by Take a Chef, 113,704 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in Monterey County usually book menus around 181 USD per person, including 3.27 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 Monterey County.












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.
16 Private Chefs in Monterey County
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in Monterey County












More than 113,700 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4.47 Chef
The guests in Monterey County have scored the experience with their Private Chef with a 4.47.
4.77 Food quality
The quality of the menus cooked by our Private Chefs in Monterey County received an average score of 4.77.
4.68 Presentation
Not only taste counts! The presentation of our private chefs' dishes has received a 4.68 average score.
4.76 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in Monterey County has been scored with a 4.76 on average.
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31,843 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in Monterey County
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








Sesame, harissa & tamari pickled persian cucumbers with crispy shallots
Roasted corn soup - red pepper swirl with toasted pepitas, optional yogurt crema & cotija cheese + lime wedge. micro herb salad on top
Chimichurri chicken with spicy coconut milk braised kale and honey-harissa marinated roasted radishes + new potatoes
Blood orange scented olive oil cake with (optional) fresh chantilly
Mediterranean mezze platter
Margarita stone fired pizza
Greek salad with feta cheese. cucumber,tomato, green peppers, olives,chopped romaine & greens,fresh mint ,red onion. red wine vinegar dressing
Chefs grilled prime meats board..aspen ridge grilled ribeye steak.grilled asparagus, crispy shallots, roasted baby potatoes w/ fennel & fresh herbs.grilled new zealand lamb chops
Mediterranean baked white fish. lemon butter garlic sauce w/ crispy frites, grilled vegetables
Artisan bread w/ balsamic olive oil dipping sauce
Tiramisu with coffee gelato
Crispy wontons with guacamole and pico de gallo (vegetarian)
Charred artichokes with chef’s aioli (vegetarian)
Antipasta skewers
Bruschetta on fresh local sourdough bread
Charcuterie platter
Warm spinach and artichoke dip
Warm queso dip woth homemade chips
Fresh local greens, cucumber, tomato, feta, and red onion (vegetarian)
House caesar salad with fresh shaved parmesan and ciabatta croutons (vegetarian option available)
Local greens, grilled corn, pickled red onions, baby heirloom tomatoes, shredded red cabbage with a citrus vinegarette
Local mixed greens with grilled peaches, goat cheese, candied almonds, and a balsamic dressing
Taco bar (shrimp, veggies, cilantro lime chicken, steak) with rice and beans
Bone in pork chops with warm apple chutney, mashed potatoes, and roasted asparagus
Braised beef shortribs (roasted vegetable) with thick cut pasta
Crispy corn tortilla with barbacoa shortribs, cabbage slaw, pickled red onions, and avocado crema
Chicken and eggplant parmesan with spaghetti, homemade marinara and fresh mozzarella
Hot fudge brownie sundae
Lemon olive oil cake
Key lime pie
Tres leche cakes with fresh berries
Celebration cake (flavor of your choosing)
- spring brochette, caprese style: tomato, mozzarella and basil, a classic! crowned with parmesan covered with balsamic cream
- stuffed eggs: tuna or avocado, egg yolk and mayonnaise come together in an explosion of flavors. topped with bell peppers and onions
- italian bruschetta: crispy toast crowned with a sautéed vegetable mix, mozzarella, prosciutto and parmesan. vegetarian version with avocado
- prawns with prosciutto: shrimp seasoned with sweet paprika wrapped in prosciutto
- big salad "insalatona": fresh combination of lettuce, arugula, tomato, carrots, radishes, cucumber and avocado, seasoned with balsamic cream
- stuffed tomatoes: fresh and delicious tomatoes stuffed with a sautéed vegetable mixture, rice and mayonnaise
- canapés or tartlets: small and delicious typical italian tarts, with salmon or avocado, ricotta and a selected mixture of cooked vegetables
-.empanadas: delicious puff pastry with a filling of ground meat, egg, veggies and lots of flavor. vegetarian option: spinach, ricotta and corn
-.gnocco fritto: fried bread, typical of emilia, served hot and together with cheeses and cold cuts. possible version with provolone cheese
-.margherita and 4 cheese small pizzas: small pizzas, made in italy, to enjoy with the family
-.choripán: argentine sandwich with sausage, was recognized as one of the best in the world
- spaghetti alla carbonara: classic roman pasta with egg yolk, parmesan and bacon, a perfect mix! that will blow your mind
- riso ai funghi: scented rice with mushrooms and typical italian vegetables
- penne all’arrabbiata: who said spicy? enjoy a touch of spicy peperoncino with tomato, parmesan, garlic and parsley sauce
- pasta alla vodka: a little parmesan, tomato, heavy cream, onion, garlic, basil and vodka. yes, vodka!
- salmon with purée 3 colors: our favorite fish without a doubt. delicious portion of salmon, along with a irresistible carrot and potato puree
- boneless chicken leg with orange juice: chicken with an explosion of flavors, marinated with orange, paprika and along with fine vegetables
- filet mignon with patate al cartoccio: mythical beef steak with intense flavor, crispy crust, juicy interior finished with roasted vegetables
- prawns skewer with boiled vegetables (potato, carrot, bell pepper, onion, presley, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) gf,df
- napolitana fette of aubergines with potatoes (mozzarella or avocado, tomato sauce, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) v,gf,df
- lemon sorbet: sorbet with a light and refreshing texture with fresh strawberries
- nutella crepe: delicious french crepe, the original recipe. nutella will take you to italy
- chocolate mousse: popular creamy dessert loved by children and adults based on chocolate and eggs
- tiramisú: our signature dessert. mascarpone cheese, coffee, lady fingers cookie, dark chocolate, eggs and sugar
- caramel crepe: delicious french crepe with caramel (dulce de leche) will take you to latin america
- macedonia: seasonal fruits, put together to enjoy a healthy dessert
Grilled artichokes with citrus aioli or farm fresh tomato bruschetta or tbd starter (chat with chef to make requests)
Optional - charcuterie plate with cured meats (from alle pia in paso robles), local cheese, spreads, fruits, nuts, etc
Optional & extra grassy bar, morro bay oysters on the 1/2 shell with chef's special mignonette
Amazing craft cocktails and or wine (additional cost - chat with chef about options)
Chilled water service
Chef's signature salad - leafy greens, shaved radicchio and arugula salad with roasted beets, apple, pear, candied pecans and house made citrus vinaigrette with gorgonzola crumbles
Or classic cesar salad with local greens and homemade dressing, croutons and shaved parmesan
Bbq or cast iron seared prime rib eye steak with chimichurri or mushroom, onion, herb and red wine reduction sauce
Or pan seared and oven roasted california halibut (or your favorite fish) over roasted pepper, tomato, onion and herb puree
Chat with chef about other main course options (steak, lamb, chicken, shellfish)
Citrus & herb infused basmati rice or classic mashed potatoes
Grilled or local roasted veggies, seasoned to perfection
Midnight molten (similar to chocolate lava cake) and fresh whipped cream and berry compote or vanilla bean creme brulee with mixed berries or pomme de fleur (apple flower pastry) with vanilla bean gelato, tbd dessert
Extra: home made birthday cake with candles (chat with chef to explore options)
Artichoke amuse. confit & crispy with lemon emulsion
Heirloom tomatoes & crispy shrimp with basil oil + shadow beni
Roast lamb with charred scallions, braised swiss chard, crispy new potatoes. served with a spring garlic & mint salsa crudo
Caramelized banana pudding cake with chantilly + candied nuts
.bruscheta, avocado, goat cheese, fresh dill and organic cherries tomatoes & grapes
.organic farm to table salad, mix greens, radish & olive oil
. organic mix salad, sesame , orange with olive oil & thyme sea salt
_ grill salmon with chimichurri sauce with mashed organic potatoes & lavender sea salt
- bruschetta, asparagus, vegan alioli, fresh basil and organic grapes. (veggie)
. grill lamb, chimichurri sauce, with mashed sweet potatoes & lavender sea salt
. chocolate lava cake & vanilla ice cream, fresh mint
. chocolate lava cake & macarons
. vanilla ice cream with fresh mint
Meze board of chef-made dips and crostini (gf available)
Pide flatbread with selection of toppings
Marinated goats and sheep cheese board with homemade rustic bread
Orzo pasta, sundried tomatoes, greens and greek olives salad
Stuffed vegetables assortment (dolmas)
Chicken lemon soup
Mushroom soup
Spicy lamb meatball soup with rice
Chilled yogurt soup with herbs and market fresh vegetables
Crispy roasted cornish hen with blue cheese dressing and country style potatoes
Spaghetti squash boat with rich vegetable and tomato sauce
Grilled halloumi cheese with farro pilaf and charred broccolini
Glazed side of salmon with fragrant rice and fall vegetables
Colossal shrimp with ancient grains risotto
Butcher's choice steak with composed butter
Red wine poached pear
Classic tiramisu
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 Monterey County.
What does a private chef service include in Monterey County?
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 Monterey County?
The price of renting a chef in Monterey County 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 Monterey County?
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 16 chefs available in Monterey County. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in Monterey County 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 Monterey County?
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 Monterey County
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in Monterey County
Percentage of our women chefs in Monterey County.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in Monterey County.
Percentage of services with kids in Monterey County.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in Monterey County.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in Monterey County.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in Monterey County.
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 Monterey County.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in Monterey County each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In Monterey County, 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 Monterey County.
Cost of a private chef in Monterey County
The cost of hiring a private chef in Monterey County 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 Monterey County?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in Monterey County: 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 Monterey County!






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









