Is a Private Chef Worth It on Vacation?

Susan Stevie Avatar
Women raising a glass in cheer and seated around an outdoor table with elevated chef prepared foods and floral centerpieces.
“The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the food. Chef Brittiney crafted a menu incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients. Each dish was a work of art!” Keisha C. Photo credit: Food Fire + Knives

Planning a trip? Dreaming of relaxation, but dreading the “what’s for dinner?” debate?

I love not stressing over grocery runs or restaurant reservations. Stepping into my vacation home where a private chef prepares and serves extraordinary meals AND cleans up is my break away from the daily routine. If only they did laundry, too.

Whether you’re traveling with kids, hanging with your tribe on a girlfriend getaway or celebrating that big birthday in your dream destination, hiring a private chef lets you spend time making memories not managing meals.

And all for less than a fancy restaurant charges. Plus you can eat barefoot if you want.

Benefits and Ideas for Using a Private Chef

Ultimate Relaxation

Dessert with vanilla ice cream, muffin and berry coulis.
Fresh home-made vanilla ice cream on banana muffin with berry coulis. Perfect end to a perfect meal. Photo credit: Diana Rowe

No cooking, no cleaning, no kitchen stress. Spend every moment enjoying your vacation and your loved ones.

“We have used a private chef a couple of times in Costa Rica. When you rent a home, most of the cooking and cleaning falls to mom. This allows mom to have a vacation from cooking and cleaning, too,” SheBuysTravel writer Liana Moore.

Want more luxury travel ideas? Get inspired with our newsletter!

Gourmet Experiences, Anywhere

Charcouterie boards with meats, cheeses and fruits on a wooden table with large floral centerpiece.
Charcuterie boards with meats, cheeses, veggies – fresh bites for even your pickiest eaters. Photo credit: Food Fire + Knives

Enjoy elevated dining in your private villa, cabin or even on a yacht. Tailored menus, fresh local ingredients – it’s dining on your terms.

“We arranged for two private chefs to lead a cooking class for our family, then got to eat what we made,” SheBuysTravel writer Julie Diebolt-Price.

Effortless Entertaining

Five course dinner menu from a private chef.
Our elevated and yummy menu from our private chef meal with friends and family. Photo credit: Diana Rowe

Hosting friends or family? Your chef handles everything, allowing you to be a true guest at your own party.

Having a staycation? We “loved, loved our private chef. We set the menu, kicked back & enjoyed being waited on & served. Including cocktails. This was at home with one other couple & my elderly mother-in-law,” SheBuysTravel writer Diana Rowe.

More Time, More Fun

Engagement party of women all dressed in pink except for the bride-to-be in silver and the chef in his chef coat.
The after-meal party pose for an engagement party celebration, with Chef! Photo credit: Food Fire + Knives

Reclaim hours spent on meal prep and cleanup. Dedicate that time to exploring, relaxing or just hanging out.

“We used a private chef for our wine club. She worked with us to prepare a tasting menu that would work with the wines we wanted to taste.” SheBuysTravel writer Peggy Cleveland.

Dietary Needs Solved

Lobster pasta dish with fresh parmasean, fennel and crisp tuile.
Lobster pasta that looks as good as it tasted! Photo credit: Food Fire + Knives

Allergies, restrictions, picky eaters? A private chef expertly manages all dietary requirements, ensuring everyone eats well and safely.

In my family, we have some members who love shellfish and some with shellfish allergies. Our chef worked to prepare two seafood dishes, keeping the one with shellfish separated to assure no allergic reactions! Both dishes were awesome and everyone had something they loved!

Pristine Kitchens

When the chef leaves, your kitchen is spotless – no dishes, no crumbs, just pure vacation bliss.

Our Recommended Culinary Partner In the US

YouTube video

The market offers various options for travel chefs, from local catering services to bespoke luxury agencies. However, for reliability, flexibility and a truly comprehensive service, one name stands out: Food Fire + Knives.

Why Food Fire + Knives?

Food Fire + Knives is our top recommendation in the US for a travel private chef, thanks to the exceptional service:

  • Vetted Professionals Everywhere: The company boasts a vast network of highly skilled and thoroughly vetted chefs across more than 600 U.S. cities.
  • Customization on the Go: Collaborate directly with your chef to design menus that perfectly fit your travel theme, local flavors and group’s preferences and dietary needs.
  • Seamless Booking: The user-friendly platform makes it incredibly easy to find, book and communicate with your chef, simplifying your trip planning.
  • All-Inclusive Peace of Mind: The chefs handle everything: menu planning, grocery shopping, cooking, serving and, crucially, the entire kitchen cleanup.
  • Versatility for Any Trip: Whether it’s a romantic retreat, a family reunion or an adventurous group trip, Food Fire + Knives can match you with the right culinary expert.

Food Fire + Knives has chefs in more than 600 US cities across 40 states.  Expect to pay from $100/adult, depending on dishes, ingredients and time.

The Verdict: Travel Without Culinary Compromise

Is hiring a private chef worth it while traveling? Absolutely. It’s an investment that transforms your getaway from a good trip into an unforgettable, stress-free, and deliciously pampered experience.

Read More

Susan is a seasoned globetrotter with a passion for exploring the world’s greatest wonders. Having lived on three continents and traveled in more than 40 countries, Susan loves exploring local culture through its history, art, food and the beauty of its landscapes. Whether she’s ballooning over the Masai Mara, tree climbing in Costa Rica, sipping wine in Tuscany or haggling in the bustling markets of Hong Kong, Susan’s enthusiasm for sharing travel stories is sure to inspire you to embark on your own adventures.
Read full bio

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *