Hiring a private chef allows you to welcome your guests around a personalised menu without leaving the comfort of your home. But how much should you budget for this experience in 2026? There is no single price: each professional sets their own rates according to their experience, services and the characteristics of the event.
The final price depends on the number of guests, the chosen menu, the ingredients, the location and any additional staff required. Before comparing proposals, it is therefore important to understand what the price actually includes.
How much does a private chef cost per person?
In France, private chef prices may generally start at around €50 to €80 per person for a simple package. A more elaborate experience often ranges from €80 to €150 per person. Gastronomic menus, exceptional ingredients or multi-course services can cost from €150 to €300 per person, or more.
These ranges are indicative only. Two chefs may offer different prices for the same number of guests depending on their experience, culinary style and level of service.
On Chefs Unis, every professional remains independent and freely presents their menus and prices. You can browse culinary professionals and compare their proposals.
The main factors that determine the price
The number of guests
A private chef service requires several hours of preparation regardless of the number of guests. Some chefs therefore apply a minimum charge or a minimum number of guests. For larger groups, the price per person may decrease, although additional staff may also be required.
The menu
A three-course lunch does not require the same amount of work as a multi-course tasting menu. The number of dishes, the technical complexity of the preparations and the level of personalisation directly affect the final price.
The selected ingredients
Seasonal produce, ingredients sourced from specialist suppliers and exceptional products can increase the cost. A seasonal vegetable menu will naturally not be priced in the same way as a menu featuring lobster, truffles, caviar or premium cuts of meat.
The professional’s experience
The chef’s career, references and specialisation also influence their pricing. Some professionals offer family-style or convivial cooking, while others create a gastronomic experience inspired by fine-dining standards.
The location and travel
Travel distance, transport, parking and logistical requirements may be included in the price or added to the quotation. Always check the professional’s service area before making a request.
What is generally included?
Depending on the chef and selected package, the price may include:
- menu creation or personalisation;
- ingredient purchasing;
- preparation before the event;
- travel to the event location;
- cooking at your home;
- plating;
- tidying and cleaning the working area.
These elements are not always included. Drinks, tableware, table linen, equipment hire or waiting staff may be charged separately.
Should you budget for service staff?
For a larger dinner or an event requiring attentive service, the chef may recommend a maître d’hôtel, waiter or kitchen assistant. This allows the chef to concentrate on preparing and serving each course while guests receive smooth and professional service.
The cost of any additional staff should be clearly stated in the professional’s proposal or quotation.
Why request a personalised quotation?
A displayed “starting from” price is a useful first indication, but only a quotation can confirm the actual cost of your event. To receive an accurate proposal, provide:
- the date and address;
- the number of adults and children;
- the type of event;
- the desired number of courses;
- culinary preferences;
- allergies and dietary requirements;
- the expected budget per person;
- any staffing or equipment requirements.
The more precise your request is, the easier it will be for the chef to prepare a suitable proposal.
How should you compare private chefs?
Price should not be the only criterion. Review each professional’s photographs, menus, specialities, experience and service area. Then check what is included in each proposal so that you are comparing equivalent services.
Chefs Unis allows you to discover different culinary styles and contact professionals directly. The platform does not perform or invoice culinary services: each chef remains responsible for their offers, prices and relationship with clients.
Discover private chefs or browse all professionals on Chefs Unis.