Private Chef in Isla Vista
Rent one of our 37 private chefs for a unique dining experience. You choose the menu, and the cleanup is included.





















A personal chef for any occasion in Isla Vista
Since the first private chef joined Take a Chef in Isla Vista in March 2017, more than 37 Private Chefs have joined our platform in Isla Vista and offered their services as private chefs anywhere in California.
Starting in 2017, 1,848 guests have already enjoyed a chef in Isla Vista. To book your chef in Isla Vista, 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 607 customized menu proposals, sending a total of 4,020 messages to their guests, who rated their experience with an average score of 4.6 out of 5.
Since the first dinner provided by Take a Chef, 1,848 guests have enjoyed unique experiences with no hassle. Our guests in Isla Vista usually book menus around 165 USD per person, including 4.8 courses, sharing an average of 3.58 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 Isla Vista.












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!
37 Private Chefs in Isla Vista
Get to know more about our top rated Private Chefs in Isla Vista












More than 1,800 guests have already enjoyed the experience
4.25 Chef
The guests in Isla Vista have scored the experience with their Private Chef with a 4.25.
4.75 Food quality
The quality of the menus cooked by our Private Chefs in Isla Vista received an average score of 4.75.
4.5 Presentation
Not only taste counts! The presentation of our private chefs' dishes has received a 4.5 average score.
5 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in Isla Vista has been scored with a 5 on average.
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607 menus personalized by our Private Chefs in Isla Vista
Every occasion is unique - make sure you have the right chef and menu for it!








Fresh maki teriyaki unagi, pickled radish
Crispy rice chip with salmon mousse
Chilled cucumber soup with mint and lemon
Clam spaghetti and roasted zucchini
Mediterranean gazpacho (24-hour marinated tomato gazpacho, kalamata black olive crumble, garlic-infused croutons)
Crispy fried seaweed salad with sweet soy vinaigrette
Mussel risotto, shaved parmigiano, homemade basil oil, roasted garlic
Miso glazed salmon, crispy sushi rice, umami roasted bok choy, toasted sesame
Seared scallops with garlic butter and lemon zest
Soft chocolate cake
Lemon basil custard with olive oil cake, berry coulis, hazelnut crumble
Chilled green tea panna cotta with red bean
Blue crab bisque
Shrimp salad: shaved baby romain, parmesan cheese, pumpkin seeds, corn, mayer lemon vinaigrette
Salami salad: wild arugula, garbanzo beans, white beans, parmesan cheese, pesto vinaigrette
Pan seared angus beef new york steak: colored cauliflower, potato scallops, wild mushrooms ragout, pan glazed sauce
Jumbo shrimp scampi: linguini pasta, baby heirloom tomato, parmesan cream
Surf & turf: chicken & scallops, saffron risotto, green beans, baby heirloom tomato, shaved cauliflower & orange brown butter sauce
Chocolate chocolate mousse cake: berries, berries coulis, walnut dust
Cheese cake : berries coulis & strawberries
- 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
- spinach frittata: italian appetizer, perfect fried mixture of egg, spinach, vegetables. possible version with mozzarella cheese
- 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
- stuffed tomatoes: fresh and delicious tomatoes stuffed with a sautéed vegetable mixture, rice and mayonnaise
- italian bruschetta: crispy toast crowned with a sautéed vegetable mix, mozzarella, prosciutto and parmesan. vegetarian version with avocado
- empanadas: delicious puff pastry with a filling of ground meat, egg, veggies and lots of flavor. vegetarian option: spinach, ricotta and corn
- tagliolini with speck and arugula: creamy homemade pasta from the italian alps
- tagliatelle al ragù: homemade pasta, with a delicious italian bolognese sauce
- penne all’arrabbiata: who said spicy? enjoy a touch of spicy peperoncino with tomato, parmesan, garlic and parsley sauce
- spaghetti alla carbonara: classic roman pasta with egg yolk, parmesan and bacon, a perfect mix! that will blow your mind
- pasta alla vodka: a little parmesan, tomato, heavy cream, onion, garlic, basil and vodka. yes, vodka!
- linguine al pesto: homemade pasta, garnished with a tasty ligurian pesto with fresh basil, parmesan and olives
- risotto (chicken or avocado, parmesan, bell pepper, onion, mushroom, zucchini, garlic, parsley, carrot, paprika, saffron, olive oil, salt and pepper) gf,df
- 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
- new york strip with vegetables: delicious puff pastry with a filling of ground meat, egg, veggies and lots of flavor. vegetarian option: spinach, ricotta and corn
- napolitana fette of aubergines with potatoes (mozzarella or avocado, tomato sauce, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) v,gf,df
- roasted pork with egg and plums: baked ham stuffed with plums and egg, along with a fresh salad
- 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
- nutella pizza: sweet italian pizza based on nutella and blueberries
(included) amuse bouche ~ chef curated seasonal dish
Salade d'agrumi ~ seasonal lettuces with citrus supremes, thyme marinated mozzarella di buffala, hazelnut praline, aleppo and honey vinaigrette
Burrata caprese ~ fresh burrata, marinated cherry tomatoes, aged balsamic and rosemary crisp topped with mozzarella mousse and crispy basil
Risotto al funghi ~ wild mushroom risotto with braised fennel, roasted wild mushrooms, finished with a porcini and black truffle cream (optional shaved truffles as add-on)
Tortellini d'agnello ~ fresh house tortellini filled with tomato braised lamb, parsnip cream, toasted pine nuts and sage chips, finished with black garlic and parmesan air
Riggatoni alla carbonara ~ traditional carbonara with italian rigatoni, topped with crispy guanciale, black truffle crumble and lemon dressed smoked salmon
Bistecca di maiale ~ rosemary roasted pork butt steak with apple cider and brandy reduction, sweet potato and brown butter aired cream and pickled shallot petals, finished with smoked hazelnut crumble and black garlic pork jus
Filleti di pesce ~ catch of the day sous vide with parmesan and truffle polenta filled croquette and red cabbage in white balsamic, finished with a parsley fumet table-side cream pour
Beef tagliata ~ black garlic-marinated ny steak over truffle potato mousseline with seasonal market vegetables and a trio of sauces (beef jus, italian chimichurri, bone marrow sabayon)
Frutti di bosco ~ berry crepe cake with layered white chocolate-rose petal filling, fresh berries, berry coulis, topped with chantilly and 24k gold
Panna cotta ~ basil infused panna cotta with pistachio nougatine, vanilla biscotti crumble, whipped mascarpone, and citrus gel
Tiramisu rotto ~ deconstructed tiramisu with whipped mascarpone cream, coffee liqueur soaked chocolate cake, golden almond cookie rocks and a table-side espresso cream pour
(optional) luxury experience package per guest: includes all tableware such as chargers, plates, silverware, water and wine glasses, linen napkins and napkin rings, custom printed menus
Carpaccio di tonno ahi tuna, citrus soy reduction, jalapeno
Octopus carpaccio - olive sauce , thinly sliced octopus cooked with panca chili and herbs
Salmon tartar
Salmón carpaccio
Heirloom tomato panzanella salad - bell peppers, red onion, cucumbers, basil, capers, citrus vinaigrette
Grilled peaches & burrata salad - cucumbers, mixed greens, toasted nuts, mulberry-lemon vinaigrette
Heirloom + burrata caprese salad
Bocconcini + cherry tomatoes salad
Fettuccine alfredo
Bucatini carbonara - pancetta , eggs , butter, parmesan
Chicken parmesan - served over fresh pasta, eggplant or veg alternative parm for vegetarian option
Chicken piccata - served over fresh pasta
Pesto primavera - ricotta ravioli, homemade pesto, toasted pistachio
Chocolate turrón a la mode
Lemon meringue tart
Bourbon brownies - served with hazelnut chocolate sauce
Homemade tiramisu
Bruschetta al pomodoro (grilled bread rubbed with garlic, topped with diced fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil)
Prosciutto e melone (sweet cantaloupe wrapped in salty, thinly-sliced prosciutto)
Grissini with prosciutto (thin breadsticks wrapped with slices of prosciutto)
Apple & brie crostini with glaze balsamic (crispy baguette slices topped with creamy brie cheese, fresh apple slices, and a drizzle of tangy balsamic glaze, garnished with fresh thyme)
Insalata caprese (fresh mozzarella, vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a balsamic reduction)
Chicken ceasar salad (crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy caesar dressing, topped with tender grilled chicken, crunchy garlic croutons, and freshly shaved parmesan cheese)
Arancini di riso (crispy fried rice balls filled with mozzarella, served with marinara sauce)
Stuffed mushrooms (mushrooms filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked)
Chicken parmigiana with fresh marinara pasta (crispy breaded chicken breast topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan, served over a bed of al dente pasta tossed in a rich, house-made marinara sauce)
Eggplant parmigiana with fresh marinara pasta (layers of tender, breaded eggplant baked with melted mozzarella and parmesan, served alongside al dente pasta tossed in a vibrant, house-made marinara sauce)
Grilled chicken al pesto with creamy parmesan risotto (tender, grilled chicken breast coated in fragrant pesto sauce, served alongside a rich and creamy parmesan risotto)
Four cheese gnocchi (soft, pillowy potato gnocchi tossed in a decadent blend of four cheeses mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and ricotta)
Alfredo pasta (fettuccine pasta tossed in a velvety sauce of butter, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream)
Panna cota w/ blackberry sauce (a creamy, delicate panna cotta topped with a vibrant, tangy blackberry sauce)
Affogato (a simple yet delightful dessert where a scoop of vanilla gelato is "drowned" with a shot of hot espresso)
Zabaglione (a rich, frothy custard made with egg yolks, sugar, and marsala wine, served warm with fresh berries)
Artisan cheese & charcuterie
Seasonal ravioli & sage brown butter sauce
Blue cheese & pears pizza
Mediteranean orzo salad: artichoke, pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olive & herbs
Arugula salad, pears, artichoke, crouton & white balsamic vinaigrette
Chicken caesar salad
Tomato basil soup, crouton & herbs
Shrimp scampi: linguini pasta, baby heirloom tomatoes, parmesan cream
Short ribs pasta, parmesan cheese, gremolata
Black angus new york steak with cauliflower, green beans, parmesan cheese potato gratin, mushrooms ragout
Pan roasted new zealand snapper, roasted baby potatoes, green beans, glazed carrots & pesto
Cheese cake : berries coulis & strawberries
Tiramisu & shaved chocolate
Lemon tiramisu
Chocolate chocolate mousse cake: berries, berries coulis
Fresh baked bread with extra virgin olive oil cruets served tableside
California potato salad - organic pee wee potatoes, olives, roasted sweet peppers, cebollita, rosemary aioli
Olives san leandro - marinated olives in my family tradition served with crudités
Real deal thin sliced beef tri tip roast coastal style with salsa cruda
Broasted whole farmhouse chicken
Poached north coast salmon - caldo, egg, lemon, dill and capers
Grilled baja oysters - estilo baja sur with grilled lemon and herbs
Chocolate chip skillet cookie with vanilla bean ice cream and candied pecans
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 Isla Vista.
What does a private chef service include in Isla Vista?
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 Isla Vista?
The price of renting a chef in Isla Vista 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 128 USD to 178 USD. For groups of 13 people or more, the price is 128 USD per person. For groups of 7 to 12 people, the cost is 123 USD per person. For groups of 3 to 6 people, the rate is 144 USD per person, and for 2 people, the price is 178 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 Isla Vista?
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 37 chefs available in Isla Vista. Fill out a form specifying your needs and the date. Take a Chef will connect you with the best available chefs in Isla Vista 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 Isla Vista?
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 Isla Vista
Discover more details about our private chefs and their services.
The average age of our private chefs in Isla Vista
Percentage of our women chefs in Isla Vista.
The average wait time from submitting the request and receiving the first menu.
Our very first private chef service in Isla Vista.
Percentage of services with kids in Isla Vista.
Maximum number of bookings for a personal chef by a single client in Isla Vista.
Increase in the number of bookings for a chef from last year in Isla Vista.
Languages spoken by our personal chefs in Isla Vista.
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 Isla Vista.
Average timeframe from sending the request to booking.
How many chef services are booked in Isla Vista each month?
Private chef reservations can vary seasonally depending on the destination. In Isla Vista, 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 Isla Vista.
Cost of a private chef in Isla Vista
The cost of hiring a private chef in Isla Vista 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 128 USD to 178 USD per person.
For 13 people or more: 128 USD
For 7 to 12 people: 123 USD
For 3 to 6 people: 144 USD
For 2 people: 178 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 Isla Vista?
We mainly offer six types of cuisine in Isla Vista: Mediterranean, Italian, French, Japanese, Mexican, and surprise. The type of cuisine with the highest number of bookings is the Surprise, 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 Isla Vista!






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









