In such a busy world, we often don’t have the time to cook the meals our bodies need and instead settle for cheap and fast alternatives that are not sustainable in the long-run. 
This is why a personal chef can be make a huge impact for a family that find themselves running short on time. The best part, it’s actually a lot cheaper than you might think, with some chefs offering a weeks worth of meals for just under $250 (not including groceries)! Below we will go over the top things to consider when hiring a personal chef in Los Angeles
1. Your Budget
Before closing the deal on hiring a personal chef, make sure you know how much you are willing to spend on their services (not including groceries). Most chefs post their rates on their profiles. Make sure to take a look at their pricing and see of it fits in your budget. If you’re not too picky and want to pay less for these services you can always hire an amateur chef from your local culinary school. They won’t be as skilled as a professional chef, but they will definitely get the job done for much cheaper.
2. Your Dietary Needs
When hiring a personal chef, you want to make sure they are aware of any dietary restrictions you have. For example, if you are a vegan, hiring a chef who has worked with vegan cuisine or are vegan themselves will make your dining experience much better. If you have a preference for a certain countries cuisine (Italian let’s say), then look to hire a chef who has experience in that domain. Dietary restrictions should be at the forefront of your mind when hiring a personal chef, as it will keep both you and your future chef informed about what they will be cooking for you and the obstacles it might pose.
3. Long-Term or Short-Term Agreement
Chef’s can provide a plethora of services ranging from dinner parties, date-nights, to weekly service where they cook you a weeks worth of food for you to reheat. Figuring out exactly what you want is key to maintaining a quality relationship with your future chef. They may even offer you discounts for writing a long-term contract.
4. Ask if Certification or Professional Affiliation is Important to You
Chefs who are certified or professionally affiliated have met certain standards and trained in the safe handling of food and preparation. When you hire an affiliated chef, you know that they have gone through extensive training and have been vetted by industry professionals, guaranteeing certain standards will be met. Because of these reasons, certified or affiliated chefs are typically more expensive.
5. Chef’s Personality
Your chef will be making personalized meals for you, so it is important that you get along with him/her so that communication is easy for both parties. Make sure they show assertiveness and consider your personal dietary needs. If they will be cooking at your home, make sure to discuss privacy concerns with them.
