Private chef in San Diego
A private chef in San Diego treats you to incredible Californian flavors. Chat with one of our 342 chefs to craft your menu the way you want it.





















Hire a personal chef in San Diego
Have a taste of San Diego's farm-to-table" experience, where local dishes meet cuisines from around the world. Trust our personal chefs to bring the talent of America's Finest City to your doorstep and impress your guests.
Since 2016, over 12,240 guests have enjoyed the private chef experience in San Diego. With Take A Chef, booking a personal chef is easy. Whether you're planning birthday parties, dinner parties, or just quality time with friends, we promise you a memorable dining experience.
Find a personal chef in San Diego, CA, who matches your preferences and budget. Let them create a unique dining experience for you and your guests so you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying time with your loved ones.












How it works
Submit your request
Tell us about your ideal meal, event date, and budget. No commitment needed.
Chat with chefs
Chat with private chefs to discuss preferences and food allergies. Get multiple proposals.
Customize Your Menu
Personalize everything you want. From the number of courses to the ingredients in every dish.
Book your chef
Finish your booking, make your payment, and prepare for an incredible moment!
Enjoy the experience
Welcome your chef and relax while your chef prepares fantastic meals in your kitchen.
342 Private chefs in San Diego
The ideal private chef in San Diego, CA, is closer than you think.












Over 12,200 guests have enjoyed the private chef experience in San Diego
4.66 Chef
Guests in San Diego have given their private chef experience a 4.66.
4.88 Food quality
Our private chef's menus in San Diego have received a strong 4.88.
4.78 Presentation
Apart from tasty, our chefs' dishes also look incredible, earning a score of 4.78 in San Diego.
4.88 Cleaningness
The cleanup of the kitchen and dining area in San Diego has been scored with a 4.88 on average.
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More than 8,009 menus personalized by our private chefs in San Diego
Rent a chef for your home in San Diego. Ask for sample menus to get inspiration. You make all the decisions.








Bruschetta
Cheese and charcuterie board
Fried mozzarella with marinara
100 anniversary tijuana cesar salad
Caprese salad
Drunken mushroom risotto
Antipasto salad
Minestrone
Fried squash blossoms with honey pesto yogurt
Carpaccio on a crostini with citrus, capers and parmegiano reggiano
Ribollita soup
Mushroom cream soup
Cioppino
Chicken parmesan with fresh handmade pasta and homemade marinara
Shrimp carbonara
Filet mignon with grilled asparagus and garlic parmesan mashed potatoes and red wine reduction
Braised short rib and polenta
Wagyu spaghetti and meatballs
Chicken gnocchi pesto
Handmade lasagna bolognese
Seabass(if available) al cartoccio with herbs, lemons, capers and cherry tomatoes
Macadamia, orange and basil crusted halibut and garlic parmesan mashed potatoes with orange beurre blanc sauce
Mini chocolate cheesecake
Apple cobbler
Tiramisu (handmade)
Creme brulee
Coconut kahlua flan
Menu will include 3-4 courses. please see your messages for more details
Pasta
Seasonal greens
Pork. squash | sorghum | apple
Grilled salmon. seasonal vegetables
Dark chocolate
White chocolate
Balsamic bruschetta - ciabatta, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, balsamic and basil
Classic caprese salad - fresh mozzarella, heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil and olive oil
Handmade green tagliatelle al pesto - fresh handmade tagliatelle (spinach pasta) with pesto sauce (basil, olive oil, garlic, parmesan and pinolli)
Chicken picatta
Fresh tiramissu
- 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
- italian bruschetta: crispy toast crowned with a sautéed vegetable mix, mozzarella, prosciutto and parmesan. vegetarian version with avocado
- 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
- stuffed tomatoes: fresh and delicious tomatoes stuffed with a sautéed vegetable mixture, rice and mayonnaise
- canapés or tartlets: small and delicious typical italian tarts, with salmon or avocado, ricotta and a selected mixture of cooked vegetables
-.empanadas: delicious puff pastry with a filling of ground meat, egg, veggies and lots of flavor. vegetarian option: spinach, ricotta and corn
-.gnocco fritto: fried bread, typical of emilia, served hot and together with cheeses and cold cuts. possible version with provolone cheese
-.margherita and 4 cheese small pizzas: small pizzas, made in italy, to enjoy with the family
-.choripán: argentine sandwich with sausage, was recognized as one of the best in the world
- spaghetti alla carbonara: classic roman pasta with egg yolk, parmesan and bacon, a perfect mix! that will blow your mind
- riso ai funghi: scented rice with mushrooms and typical italian vegetables
- penne all’arrabbiata: who said spicy? enjoy a touch of spicy peperoncino with tomato, parmesan, garlic and parsley sauce
- pasta alla vodka: a little parmesan, tomato, heavy cream, onion, garlic, basil and vodka. yes, vodka!
- 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
- prawns skewer with boiled vegetables (potato, carrot, bell pepper, onion, presley, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) gf,df
- napolitana fette of aubergines with potatoes (mozzarella or avocado, tomato sauce, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) v,gf,df
- 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
- 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
- prawns with prosciutto: shrimp seasoned with sweet paprika wrapped in prosciutto
- salty crepe with salmon: popular french dish. homemade tortillas, filled with fresh vegetables, salmon or avocado and cheeses
- spring brochette, caprese style: tomato, mozzarella and basil, a classic! crowned with parmesan covered with balsamic cream
- marinara mussels: tasty recipe for mussels sautéed in italian vegetable pesto
- big salad "insalatona": fresh combination of lettuce, arugula, tomato, carrots, radishes, cucumber and avocado, seasoned with balsamic cream
- citrus salad: unique explosion of flavors between arugula, cherry tomatoes, grapefruit, orange and tangerine, seasoned with balsamic cream
- garlic prawns: tasty shrimp in fine garlic sauce, vegetables and fine herbs
-.gnocco fritto: fried bread, typical of emilia, served hot and together with cheeses and cold cuts. possible version with provolone cheese
-.stuffed bell pepper: slow-temperature roasted bell pepper, filled with ricotta, veggies and ground beef filling. vegetarian option available!
-.mexican volcano: delicious open taco with tortilla, vegetables, shrimp or avocado
- tagliatelle al ragù: homemade pasta, with a delicious italian bolognese sauce
- potato gnocchi with asparagus: delicious gnocchetti topped with delicious asparagus cream sauce, vegetables and selected herbs
- spaghetti alla carbonara: classic roman pasta with egg yolk, parmesan and bacon, a perfect mix! that will blow your mind
- linguine al pesto: homemade pasta, garnished with a tasty ligurian pesto with fresh basil, parmesan and olives
- pasta alla vodka: a little parmesan, tomato, heavy cream, onion, garlic, basil and vodka. yes, vodka!
- riso ai funghi: scented rice with mushrooms and typical italian vegetables
- filet mignon with patate al cartoccio: mythical beef steak with intense flavor, crispy crust, juicy interior finished with roasted vegetables
- t-bone steak with patate: classic t-bone steak, prepared at your will. juicy, delicious and full flavor topped with baked potatoes
- tilapia with noisette potatoes: classic white fish, topped with a delicious green sauce and particular french noisette potatoes
- boneless chicken leg with orange juice: chicken with an explosion of flavors, marinated with orange, paprika and along with fine vegetables
- roasted pork with egg and plums: baked ham stuffed with plums and egg, along with a fresh salad
- prawns skewer with boiled vegetables (potato, carrot, bell pepper, onion, presley, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) gf,df
- napolitana fette of aubergines with potatoes (mozzarella or avocado, tomato sauce, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) v,gf,df
- tiramisú: our signature dessert. mascarpone cheese, coffee, lady fingers cookie, dark chocolate, eggs and sugar
- chocolate mousse: popular creamy dessert loved by children and adults based on chocolate and eggs
- nutella crepe: delicious french crepe, the original recipe. nutella will take you to italy
- strawberry sorbet: classic white fish, topped with a delicious green sauce and particular french noisette potatoes
- chocolate cake with nutella: dark chocolate cake filled with blueberry jam and fresh strawberries, topped with nutella cream
- macedonia: seasonal fruits, put together to enjoy a healthy dessert
Menu will be custom designed for you based on your dinner preferences, ranging from 5-10 courses. please check your messages for more details
Rigatoni tomatoes | bacon | peas
Seasonal greens
Duck beetroot | mushroom | petals
Pork squash | sorghum | apple
Wagyu
Dark chocolate tart. frangelico ice cream | toasted nuts
Ahi tuna tartare with avocado
Avocado with mushroom soup with pistachio topping
Caesar salad parm bowl (can be made gluten free)
Asian rice (gluten & dairy free)
Brussels sprouts sliders (gluten free & can be made vegan/dairy free)
Coconut split pea soup (vegan)
Chicken cacciatore (dairy & gluten free)
Argentinian chimichurri steak
Creamy spinach stuffed salmon with garlic butter (gluten free & can be made dairy free)
Coconut tofu
Apple cinnamon roses filled with cream cheese (can be made vegan & gluten free)
Banana foster (gluten free, can be made dairy free & vegan)
Strawberry shortcake puffs (can be made dairy free)
Hickory smoked scallop crudo
Guacamole tatemado with pork rinds and tortilla chips and plantain chips
Black bean chipotle lobster tostada
Baja ceviche shooters
Ahi poke wontons
Fried risotto ball with marinara
California gazpacho
Aztec tortilla soup
Chicken tom kha soup
Pork chashu ramen
100 anniversary tijuana cesar salad
Warm winter salad
Asian papaya salad
Caprese salad
California caprese
Chicken and waffles with candied bacon bits
Braised short rib and grits with red wine reduction
Blackened salmon with greek lemon rice and homemade tzatziki
Teriyaki mahi mahi with king trumpet mushrooms, green onions and grilled squash
Harissa marinated pan seared chicken with goat cheese labneh and herbs with a cucumber side salad
Macadamia, orange and basil crusted halibut and garlic parmesan mashed potatoes with orange beurre blanc sauce
Filet mignon with grilled asparagus and garlic parmesan mashed potatoes and red wine reduction
Garlic shrimp skewers with honey rosemary vegetables
Sesame seared tuna with mango, pineapple, habanero salsa, ponzu and white jazmine rice
Fish on lentils with honey cream and herb medley
Trout almondine with garlic parmesan mashed potatoes and lemon beurre blanc
Apple cobbler
Assorted homemade cookies
Bread pudding
Carrot walnut cake
Churro waffles ice cream sandwhich
Churros (fresh handmade )
Coconut kahlua flan
Mini chocolate cheesecake
Tiramisu
Triple chocolate layer cake
Cornbread with salted caramel and whipped cream cheese
Creme brulee
Personalize your menu
Your personal chef is here to help you design the perfect menu for your event. They can tailor it to fit your budget, dietary needs, and preferences for your private dinner.








Frequently asked questions
Below, you can find the most common questions about private chefs in San Diego.
What's included in a private chef service in San Diego?
Your personal chef service in San Diego includes menu planning, grocery shopping, cooking at your place, serving the meals, and cleaning up afterward. Tableware and glassware are not provided, and tipping is up to you.
How much does a personal chef in San Diego cost?
The cost varies depending on the group size. For groups of 13 or more, the average rate is 99 USD per person. For 7 to 10 people, it's 98 USD per person; for 3 to 6 people, it's 122 USD per person. Couples pay 163 USD per person on average. Please note that prices may vary due to season, location, or last-minute bookings.
How to book a personal chef in San Diego, CA?
To book a private chef in San Diego, choose your date and guest count, and share your food preferences, dietary restrictions, and kitchen details. You'll get three customized menus and chef profiles with their dish photos. Chat with the chefs to make adjustments or ask questions. Once you've selected your chef and menu, finalize the booking online and receive their contact details.
How can I find a personal chef in San Diego?
With 342 chefs available, fill out a form to get menu proposals from the top 3 chefs for your date. Review their profiles and select your favorite. If none meet your expectations, we’ll keep sending you more options until you’re happy with your choice.
Is there a maximum number of guests for a private chef service in San Diego?
No, there's no maximum number. However, while there's no hard limit, groups generally don’t exceed 15 people to ensure a more intimate and personalized experience.
Does the private 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 private 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 for a private chef service fresh?
Yes, one of the hallmarks of a private chef service is the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Your chef for hire in San Diego will carefully select the freshest produce, meats, and seafood to create delicious and memorable dishes for your event.
Are drinks included in a private chef service?
No, drinks are not included in the private chef service. However, your chef can help you find beverage options to complement your meal. Just talk with your private chef to include the cost as an "extra" on the menu proposals they craft for your special occasion.
How much should I tip a private chef in San Diego?
Tipping is up to you. If you received exceptional service, it’s a nice way to show your appreciation. On average, guests in San Diego tip around 14.72% of the total bill. But feel free to tip what you feel is appropriate based on your experience.
Key information about private chefs in San Diego
Find out more about our personal chefs in San Diego and what they do.
Our private chefs in San Diego, CA, have an average age of 44, bringing a lot of cooking experience.
63% of our chefs in San Diego are women.
First menus are typically received within 4 hours after a request.
Our private chef services in San Diego started in 2016-04-14.
10.9% of our personal chef services in San Diego include kids.
One client has hired the same personal chef in San Diego 18 times.
Private chef bookings in San Diego have increased by 34% in the past year.
Our chefs can speak up to 5 languages.
More than 60.9% of our guests book a chef more than once.
On average, multiple services hire a chef for 8 days in San Diego.
We have over 2,596 pictures from San Diego chef experiences.
It usually takes just 2 days to book a personal chef in San Diego.
How much does a personal chef cost in San Diego, CA?
The cost of hiring a personal chef in San Diego varies with the number of guests. Here’s a quick breakdown: prices range from 99 USD to 163 USD per person.
For 13 people or more: 99 USD. For 7 to 12 people: 98 USD. For 3 to 6 people: 122 USD. For 2 people: 163 USD.
Prices can change with the seasons and locations. For the best rates, it’s a good idea to book early. Ready to enjoy a unique dining experience at home with a personal chef from San Diego? Book now!
How many private chef services are booked in San Diego each month?
Private chef reservations may vary seasonally depending on the destination. To view monthly fluctuations of San Diego personal chefs, check this table.
The number of private chef bookings in San Diego can vary by season. Having dinner with a chef in San Diego is always a great idea, but demand can drive up prices, so early booking is recommended.
How many personal chefs sign up in San Diego each month?
We've been working with private chefs in San Diego for many years, gaining the trust of many local chefs who continue to join us each month. Besides, as our guests highly recommend their experience, we're always growing.
We’re always adding new talent to our team. Each month, we welcome 3 new personal chefs in San Diego, CA. Our team carefully reviews and classifies their profiles so you can discover exciting new chefs regularly.
What is the most frequent type of food booked in San Diego?
Our main six types of cuisine in San Diego are: Mediterranean, Italian, French, Japanese, Mexican, and Latin American. However, the most requested cuisine in San Diego is Surprise.
Our private chefs craft personalized menus based on your preferences and dietary needs. Ready to explore the culinary possibilities? Submit your request today!

Bring a private chef to your home in San Diego
Prepare to embrace San Diego's sunshine with a private chef! Enjoy fresh seafood, vibrant local cuisine, and innovative flavors brought to your own table. Relax and soak up California's vibes while your San Diego personal chef handles everything.
Take a Chef offers a unique dining experience for any occasion, be it holiday parties, company parties, birthdays, or family gatherings. Looking for a vegan chef or a private sushi chef in San Diego? We have the perfect match!
On the day of your event, your chosen chef will procure the freshest ingredients, prepare and serve the meal at your home, and leave your kitchen spotless afterward. Try the service of an in-home chef in San Diego now!

San Diego's best private chefs in your kitchen
All our private chefs are trained in top culinary schools and have years of experience in San Diego's best restaurants, hotels, and resorts. Browse our selection of personal chefs in San Diego to find your perfect culinary match.
San Diego, famous for its stunning beaches and the iconic Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo, also has an exciting food scene. From fresh seafood to gourmet dishes, our chefs deliver the best flavors San Diego has to offer.
Hire a San Diego private chef and make your event unforgettable. Whether it's a bachelorette party, wedding, or any special occasion, we've got the chef for you!

Your house, the city's best restaurant
San Diego offers a rich blend of local and international cuisines. Why wait to explore these flavors? Create a unique and intimate unique experience with Take a Chef.
More than just a private chef agency, we bring our passion for food to your home, allowing you to connect with your loved ones over an unforgettable meal. For your next memorable event, consider hiring a personal chef for a dinner party in San Diego.






Hear from our personal chefs in San Diego
Discover what makes each of our private chefs special. Enjoy a unique at-home culinary experience with a San Diego chef who will tailor every detail to your preferences. Whether you want a dinner party with a chef in San Diego or a healthy personal chef in San Diego, trust Take a Chef to provide the best culinary options in the city.









