Frequently Asked Questions

• Can you accommodate special dietary needs, such as low-fat, low cholesterol and food allergies?
  Most dietary needs can be accommodated. During your initial consultation, we can discuss any such issues.
• Do you need to cook the food in my kitchen?
  Yes, Massachusetts state law permits a personal chef to prepare food only at the client's home.
• How long will it take you to cook my food?
  Usually a full afternoon, depending on the service plan you choose and how far you live from my home. I can't say in advance exactly how long I'll be cooking, but I'm willing to work with your schedule so that your cook date is convenient for you.
• Will all the meals be frozen?
  That depends partly on which entrees you prefer. Most meals can be frozen, and all of them can be stored in the refrigerator for heat-and-eat convenience.
• How much freezer space do I need for storage?
  Depending on the service plan you choose, I'll need to use between half and three-quarters of your conventional freezer's space.
• Can you use my containers?
  In order to store your food as efficiently as possible, I prefer to select appropriate reusable containers to store your food. A one-time container fee of $50 is due on your first cook date, which covers all containers and packaging for the duration of your service.
• How do I heat the food?
  I will e-mail you detailed heating instructions on the day of my cook date. Usually, you simply defrost your meal (if frozen) the evening before, and then heat in the microwave when you're ready to eat. Some meals require heating in a conventional oven.
• Can I use your service just once for a special occasion, out-of-town guests, etc.?
  All plans are available for one-time service.
• Can I order half of the regular service?
  Unfortunately, I can't offer that option, because shopping and planning for three meals takes just as much time as preparing to cook six.
• What does the service fee include?
  The service fee covers menu planning, grocery shopping, complete meal preparation (entrees and appropriate side dishes), food cooling and storage, kitchen clean-up and easy heat-and-serve instructions. Groceries are charged separately, and there is a one-time container fee of $50 that covers containers and packaging costs for the duration of your service.
• Do you leave a bill, or do I have to pay you beforehand?
  The service fee and grocery costs are payable on your cook date, or by mail within one week.
• Why doesn't your web site look nice in Netscape 4.x?
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