Private Chef in Santa María
Rent one of our 26 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in Santa María
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in Santa María in October 2017, more than 26 Private Chefs have joined our platform in Santa María and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in Santa Barbara County.
Starting in 2017, 113,504 guests have already enjoyed a chef in Santa María. To book your chef in Santa María, 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 31,764 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 72,173 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, 113,504 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in Santa María usually book menus around 181 USD per person, including 3.44 courses, sharing an average of 4.89 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 Santa María.












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.
26 Private Chefs in Santa María
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in Santa María












More than 113,500 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4.47 Chef
The guests in Santa María 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 Santa María 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 Santa María has been scored with a 4.76 on average.
View full review
View full review
View full review
View full review
31,764 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in Santa María
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








Grilled artichokes with citrus aioli or farm fresh tomato bruschetta or tbd starter (chat with chef to make requests)
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
Bbq prime grade rib eye steak with mediterranean chimichurri or mushroom, onion and herb sauce
Citrus & herb infused basmati rice or classic mashed potatoes
Grilled or local roasted veggies, seasoned to perfection
Chocolate gooey delight (similar to chocolate lava cake) and fresh whipped cream or vanilla bean creme brulee with mixed berries or tbd dessert
Bruschetta on fresh local bread (vegetarian)
Charred artichokes with chef’s aioli (vegetarian)
Shrimp cocktail
Antipasta skewers
Bone in pork chops with warm apple chutney, mashed potatoes, and roasted asparagus
Grilled steak, vegetables, and feta roasted potatoes
Eggplant parmesan with fresh pasta and homemade marinara (vegetarian)
Grilled portobello steaks, whipped mashed potatoes, and grilled vegetables (vegetarian)
Celebration cake
Hot fudge brownie sundae
Key lime pie
Fresh fruit tart
Blue crab beignets, sauce gribiche
Grilled avocado, salsa macha, herb salad (vegetarian)
Pupusa, orange mojo sauce
Dashi soup with matsutake mushrooms (vegetarian)
Coffee spiced steak, aligot potato, parsley, pistou, heirloom carrots
Branzino, smoked corn broth, romanesco, seasonal vegetables
Grilled salmon, lemon garlic sauce, israeli couscous, arugula pesto
Lemon tart, citrus, passionfruit
Sweet potato cake, coconut ice cream
White chocolate verrine, roasted pineapple, yuzu
Lemon tart, passionfruit sorbet
Crispy wontons with guacamole and pico de gallo (vegetarian)
Charred artichokes with chef’s aioli (vegetarian)
Shrimp cocktail shooters
Antipasta skewers
Taco bar (shrimp, veggies, cilantro lime chicken, steak) with rice and beans
Eggplant parmesan with fresh pasta and marinara (vegetarian)
Bone in pork chops with warm apple chutney, mashed potatoes, and roasted asparagus
Pan seared scallops with whipped potatoes and roasted vegetables
Hot fudge brownie sundae
Lemon olive oil cake
Key lime pie
Personal tres leche cakes with fresh berries
- 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
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
House caesar salad with fresh shaved parmesan and ciabatta croutons (vegetarian option available)
Fresh local greens, cucumber, tomato, and red onion (vegetarian)
Local greens with goat cheese, poached pear and balsamic reduction
Local greens, grilled corn, pickled red onions, baby heirloom tomatoes, shredded red cabbage with a citrus vinegarette
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 with thick cut pasta
Chicken and eggplant parmesan with spaghetti, homemade marinara and fresh mozzarella
Chicken marsala and fresh pasta roasted mixed veggies
Crispy corn tortilla with barbacoa shortribs, cabbage slaw, pickled red onions, and avocado crema
Hot fudge brownie sundae
Lemon olive oil cake
Key lime pie
Affogato with shaved dark chocolate
Celebration cake
Cream puffs with berry compote (can make gf too)
Flourless dark chocolate torte with mixed berry compote
Scallop, yuzu kosho, tobiko
Sashimi salad, shiso vinaigrette
Grilled avocado, salsa macha, herb salad (vegetarian)
Dashi soup with matsutake mushrooms (vegetarian)
Tuna toro tataki
Pasta, prawn, ricotta, capers, smoked tomato sauce
Little gem lettuce, beet, pistachio, goat cheese (vegetarian)
Red butter lettuce, english cucumber, heirloom tomato, mint (vegetarian)
Coffee spiced short rib, aligot potato, parsley, pistou, heirloom carrots
Grilled steak, garlic soy jus, congee
Lobster mushroom, smoked corn broth, romanesco, seasonal vegetables (vegetarian)
Branzino, smoked corn broth, romanesco, seasonal vegetables
Lemon tart, citrus, passionfruit, white chocolate
White chocolate verrine, almond crumble, roasted pineapple, yuzu
Lemon tart, raspberry sorbet
Sweet potato cake, coconut ice cream
Grilled avocado, salsa macha, herb salad (vegetarian)
Pupusa, orange mojo sauce
Blue crab beignets, sauce gribiche
Pasta, prawn, ricotta, capers, romesco
Pasta, prawn, ricotta, capers, smoked tomato sauce
Little gem lettuce, beet, pistachio, goat cheese (vegetarian)
Red butter lettuce, english cucumber, heirloom tomato, mint (vegetarian)
Branzino, smoked corn broth, romanesco, seasonal vegetables
Grilled salmon, lemon garlic sauce, israeli couscous, arugula pesto
Roasted mushroom, smoked corn broth, romanesco, seasonal vegetables (vegetarian)
Coffee spiced ribeye, aligot potato, parsley, pistou, heirloom carrots
Lemon tart, citrus, passionfruit ice cream
Lemon tart, raspberry sorbet
White chocolate verrine, almond crumble, roasted pineapple, yuzu
Sweet potato cake, coconut ice cream
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 Santa María.
What does a private chef service include in Santa María?
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 Santa María?
The price of renting a chef in Santa María 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 Santa María?
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 26 chefs available in Santa María. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in Santa María 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 Santa María?
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 Santa María
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in Santa María
Percentage of our women chefs in Santa María.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in Santa María.
Percentage of services with kids in Santa María.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in Santa María.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in Santa María.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in Santa María.
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 Santa María.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in Santa María each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In Santa María, 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 Santa María.
Cost of a private chef in Santa María
The cost of hiring a private chef in Santa María 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 Santa María?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in Santa María: 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 Santa María!

Why not try a Private Chef service in Santa Maria?
Our chefs will take care of absolutely everything! Groceries shopping, preparation, table service and cleaning after the service. All you have to do is sit back and relax with your loved ones, we will take care of making this experience memorable to you!

Experience culinary perfection
Is it your parents' anniversary? A birthday of your brother, sister or friend? A wedding of your colleague, and you don't know what to offer? Stop worrying, with Take a Chef with just a click, call or email you will be able to gift your loved ones the best dining experience prepared by our private chefs in Santa Maria

The best gastronomy in Santa Maria
This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a new space for gastronomy into your own house, to share a romantic moment with your partner or just to relax with your family and friends, we will take care of everything! Our Professional Chefs will design a proposal just for you and your guests, this way you can leave the cooking to someone else and just enjoy!






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









