Private chef in San Diego
A private chef in San Diego treats you to incredible Californian flavors. Chat with one of our 347 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 20,049 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.
347 Private chefs in San Diego
The ideal private chef in San Diego, CA, is closer than you think.












Over 20,000 guests have enjoyed the private chef experience in San Diego
4.65 Chef
Guests in San Diego have given their private chef experience a 4.65.
4.88 Food quality
Our private chef's menus in San Diego have received a strong 4.88.
4.77 Presentation
Apart from tasty, our chefs' dishes also look incredible, earning a score of 4.77 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 8,283 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.








Edamame hummus - ginger, sweet chili, wonton chips
Miso soup - tofu, seaweed, bean sprouts
Char sui ribs- baby back ribs, green onion
Chicken avocado eggroll- avocado, sweet chili, red onion
Chicken saty - sweet soy, chilies, cilantro
Pork belly bun- ginger, garlic, cilantro, pickled vegetables
Asian salad - ginger dressing, carrots, romaine lettuce, onion
Orange salad - ginger dressing, carrots, romaine lettuce, onion, wonton, oranges, radish
Citrus avocado salad - avocado, oranges, grapefruit, manchego cheese, citrus vinaigrette
Chicken teriyaki- onion, soy, rice
Shrimp kung pao- chilies, cilantro, soy
Miso duck - seared duck breast, candied orange peel, duck confit, cassoulet, haricots verts stir fry
Sesame glazed seared salmon - asparagus, pommes frites, bok choy
Ginger sticky ribs- pork ribs, ginger, garlic
Beef filet teriyaki - sprouts, cilantro,
Cheese cake
Green tea panna cotta - chantilly cream
Fried bananas - caramel
Creme brulee - chantilly cream
Cacio pepe polenta cakes
Tomato with brodo and pasta
Confit tuna toast
Bone marrow pesto gnocchi, sun dried tomatoes
Salatim of carrots, hummus, cucumber tomato salad, dolma
Papardelle with peas and leeks
Penne with prosciutto and ragu
Corn and tortellini with sour honey and ricotta
Broccolini with cacio pepe burrata
Crispy potatoes, whipped feta ,chermoula, pickled peppers
Aged bavette steak , wild risotto and gold oyster mushrooms
Chicken marsala and risotto
Salmon , wild risotto and gold oyster mushrooms
Yogurt marinated chicken and vegetables
Chocolate budino with devils food cake
Tiramisu
Pistachio panna cotta, honey tuille candied lemon
Charcuterie and cheeses board with prosciutto, salami, capocollo, parmigiano reggiano, manchego and more…
Citric salad of arugula, avocado, navel orange, blood orange and grapefruit, seasoned with balsamic glaze and lemon
Big salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, avocado, carrots, cucumber and radish, seasoned with balsamic glaze and evoo
Greek salad of grape tomatoes, mini cucumbers, red onion, bell pepper, kalamata olives, feta cheese, with homemade greek salad dressing
Caprese skewers of mozzarella, basil and cherry tomatoes, along a side of parmesan cheese and balsamic glaze
Fresh tagliatelle with bolognese of beef, tomato sauce, and finely chopped onions, carrots and parsley
Fresh linguine with pesto genovese with basil, parmesan, almonds (removable), garlic and evoo
Penne alla vodka, with tomato sauce, fresh tomato, basil, heavy cream and parmesan cheese
Chicken and mushroom risotto with finely chopped garlic, onion, cooked in chicken broth, topped with butter and parmesan
Beef filet mignon topped with a delicious mushroom and cream sauce
Boneless chicken thigh marinated in orange juice
Salmon filet with spanish sweet paprika
Eggplant napolitana covered in breadcrumbs, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese
Italian tiramisú with mascarpone, eggs and sugar cream, layered with coffee dipped lady fingers and topped with grated dark chocolate
Classic chocolate mousse
Chocolate crepe, filled with delicious italian nutella and whipped cream
Delicious spanish flan with whipped cream
Homemade hummus
Pita bread
Baba ghanoush
Homemade tzatziki
Tabbouli
Crab cakes
Greek yogurt salad and roasted beets salad
Fattoush salad
Stuffed grape leaves
Kibbeh
Macadamia, orange and basil crusted halibut and garlic parmesan mashed potatoes with orange beurre blanc sauce
Harissa marinated pan seared chicken with goat cheese labneh and herbs with a cucumber side salad
Garlic shrimp skewers with honey rosemary vegetables
Blackened salmon with greek lemon rice and homemade tzatziki
Filet mignon with grilled asparagus and garlic parmesan mashed potatoes and red wine reduction
Baklava
Tiramisu
Mini chocolate cheesecake
Creme brulee
Coconut kahlua flan
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
Escargot stuffed mushrooms (can be made gluten free & dairy free)
Chard galette (can be made gluten & dairy free)
Smoked salmon cucumber bites (gluten free & can be made dairy free)
Cream of cauliflower soup (gluten free & can be made dairy free)
Potato gratin (can be made dairy free)
Tomatoes provençale (gluten free & vegan)
Fish meuniere (gluten free & can be made dairy free)
French honey-lacquered duck breast (dairy & gluten free)
Gorgonzola portobello steak (gluten free & can be made dairy free)
Chocolate pistachio torte (can be made gluten free & dairy free)
Lemon tart (can be made gluten free & dairy free)
Mille feuille (can be made gluten free & dairy free)
Cacio pepe polenta cakes
Tomato with brodo and pasta
Confit tuna toast
Bone marrow pesto gnocchi, sun dried tomatoes
Charcuterie board with cheeses and pickles
Papardelle with peas and leeks
Penne with prosciutto and ragu
Corn and tortellini with sour honey and ricotta
Honey pached carrots with curry, raisins and lemon yogurt
Broccolini, with parmesan, pine nuts and black garlic
Cesar salad pickled onions, cotija, sardines
Lamb and baba ghanoush with pomegranates
Aged bavette steak , wild risotto and gold oyster mushrooms
Chicken marsala and risotto
Salmon , wild risotto and gold oyster mushrooms
Dry age pork loin, roast vegetables, polenta
Branzino ,herbs and with roasted vegetables and potatoes
Chocolate budino with devils food cake
Tiramisu
Pistachio panna cotta, honey tuille candied lemon
- spring brochette, caprese style: tomato, mozzarella and basil, a classic! crowned with parmesan covered with balsamic cream
- empanadas: delicious puff pastry with a filling of ground meat, egg, veggies and lots of flavor. vegetarian option: spinach, ricotta and corn
- citrus salad: unique explosion of flavors between arugula, cherry tomatoes, grapefruit, orange and tangerine, seasoned with balsamic cream
- big salad "insalatona": fresh combination of lettuce, arugula, tomato, carrots, radishes, cucumber and avocado, seasoned with balsamic cream
- canapés or tartlets: small and delicious typical italian tarts, with salmon or avocado, ricotta and a selected mixture of cooked vegetables
- caviar bruschetta: refined italian toasted bread, with fresh cooked vegetables, cheeses and topped with caviar
- prawns with prosciutto: shrimp seasoned with sweet paprika wrapped in prosciutto
- spinach and zucchini savory cake: salty cake with a touch of genoese style!
- tagliatelle al ragù: homemade pasta, with a delicious italian bolognese sauce
- spaghetti alla carbonara: classic roman pasta with egg yolk, parmesan and bacon, a perfect mix! that will blow your mind
- 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!
- riso ai funghi: scented rice with mushrooms and typical italian vegetables
- linguine al pesto: homemade pasta, garnished with a tasty ligurian pesto with fresh basil, parmesan and olives
- filet mignon with patate al cartoccio: mythical beef steak with intense flavor, crispy crust, juicy interior finished with roasted vegetables
- salmon with purée 3 colors: our favorite fish without a doubt. delicious portion of salmon, along with a irresistible carrot and potato puree
- 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
- beef outside skirt steak pizza style: steak a filet prepared as a pizza with mozzarella and fresh tomatoes
- napolitana fette of aubergines with potatoes (mozzarella or avocado, tomato sauce, sage, oregano, olive oil, salt and pepper) v,gf,df
- pork rib with barbecue sauce and potatoes (chimichurri, parsley, garlic, paprika, oregano, rosemary, olive oil, salt and pepper) gf,df
- tiramisú: our signature dessert. mascarpone cheese, coffee, lady fingers cookie, dark chocolate, eggs and sugar
- cream caramel: famous french dessert that combines a cream based on eggs, vanilla and cinnamon with orange, lemon and tangerine
- chocolate mousse: popular creamy dessert loved by children and adults based on chocolate and eggs
- lemon sorbet: sorbet with a light and refreshing texture with fresh strawberries
- chocolate cake with nutella: dark chocolate cake filled with blueberry jam and fresh strawberries, topped with nutella cream
- nutella crepe: delicious french crepe, the original recipe. nutella will take you to italy
- melba cup: cup of chocolate and strawberry ice cream with fresh peach
- macedonia: seasonal fruits, put together to enjoy a healthy dessert
- banana split (chocolate and vanilla ice cream, banana, strawberries, chocolate) v,gf
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 347 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 45, bringing a lot of cooking experience.
53% of our chefs in San Diego are women.
First menus are typically received within 5 hours after a request.
Our private chef services in San Diego started in 2016-04-14.
19.2% of our personal chef services in San Diego include kids.
One client has hired the same personal chef in San Diego 15 times.
Private chef bookings in San Diego have increased by 38% in the past year.
Our chefs can speak up to 5 languages.
More than 60.8% of our guests book a chef more than once.
On average, multiple services hire a chef for 4 days in San Diego.
We have over 2,620 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.









