Question 1

What is The Culinistas?

Accepted Answer

The Culinistas is a culinary resource that gives everyone the freedom and confidence to connect around a meal. Through our

Question 2

Are you a staffing agency?

Accepted Answer

No. Unlike a traditional staffing agency, The Culinistas is a full-service private chef and culinary company that develops recipes, designs menus, vets chefs, and personalizes our services for every client. Our dedicated client services team handles every step of your experience, including scheduling, chef selection, menu selection, and billing.

Question 3

What areas do you service?

Accepted Answer

Our chef services are available in the NYC metro area, the Hamptons, LA, and the D.C. metro area, though many Culinista® chefs are happy to travel. For services outside of these areas,

Question 4

What services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

Our services fall into four main categories:

Question 5

Why should I use The Culinistas?

Accepted Answer

We are experts in private chef services and home cooking and have been vetting private chefs for over a decade. Our platform makes it easy to hire a private chef for a night, a season, a weekly commitment, or full time.  We recognize that every household’s needs are different, so we personalize each service to ensure that you get the food and experience you want.

Question 6

What kind of food do you cook?

Accepted Answer

Our collection of over 600 recipes offers wide ranging choice when it comes to your meals. That said, we focus on balanced, healthy dishes made with our

Question 7

Where is your food cooked?

Accepted Answer

Culinista chefs shop locally, sourcing fresh, seasonal ingredients, and cook in your own home. No delivery coordinating. No wasteful drop off packaging. No mystery ghost kitchen.

Question 8

Can you accommodate food allergies?

Accepted Answer

We develop a diverse array of menus tailored to your needs, like gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free to name a few. To help you make as informed a decision as possible, every dish includes a full ingredient list, and dishes can be customized to omit certain items.

Question 9

Where do you source your ingredients?

Accepted Answer

Culinista chefs shop locally at our favorite grocers and farmers markets. They shop specifically for you and are happy to accommodate your preferences. They source the freshest and most nutrient-dense items they can find, striving to buy organic and non-GMO produce whenever possible.

Question 10

Can I buy my own groceries?

Accepted Answer

We develop all our recipes and menus with a grocery list in mind, and Culinista chefs are trained to shop so that they always have the correct items and the appropriate quantities to execute your service. For these reasons, we greatly prefer that the chefs shop for their services.

Question 11

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Starting with The Culinistas is as simple as booking a

Question 12

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We require 48 hours notice to cancel any service without charge. Within 48 hours, your service may be nonrefundable. Please see Billing FAQs for our full cancellation policy.

Question 13

I’m interested in working at The Culinistas HQ. How can I see open roles?

Accepted Answer

The Culinistas HQ is a talented and passionate team of culinary, editorial, operations, customer service, and marketing professionals. View our open roles

Question 14

I'm a chef. How can I work with The Culinistas?

Accepted Answer

We’re always interested in meeting qualified chefs.

Question 15

How does the gatherings service work?

Accepted Answer

Book a service

Question 16

What areas do you service?

Accepted Answer

Our chef services are available in the NYC metro area, the Hamptons, LA, and the D.C. metro area, though many Culinista® chefs are happy to travel. For services outside of these areas,

Question 17

How much do gatherings cost?

Accepted Answer

Gatherings start at $500 (based on guest count) plus groceries, sales tax and a $15 travel reimbursement. We automatically add 20% chef gratuity to all gatherings (i.e. $100 for $500 base rate).

Question 18

Do you coordinate waitstaff, rentals, and decor?

Accepted Answer

If your gathering requires an extra set of hands, we’ll staff a reliable server or bartender from our Culinista network. We do not coordinate rentals or decor but can connect you with vetted vendors if you need additional support.

Question 19

Do you offer services on holidays?

Accepted Answer

Culinista chefs are happy to help you make the holidays as seamless as possible. Chef availability may be limited during the holidays, so it’s best to

Question 20

What about the wine?

Accepted Answer

We work with trusted local partners in each of our service areas who will be happy to recommend wines based on your menu and coordinate delivery to your home. Feel free to reach out to the below businesses—let them know we sent you!

Question 21

How should I prepare for my gatherings service?

Accepted Answer

Please see our

Question 22

Do I need specific tools or pantry items?

Accepted Answer

Please see our

Question 23

How does menu selection work?

Accepted Answer

Book a service

Question 24

Why six dishes?

Accepted Answer

Our gathering menus are designed with one starter to sate guests upon arrival, four family style dishes to cover proteins, grains and starches, leafy vegetables, and hearty vegetables, and a dessert. This formula also helps us staff your gathering with the minimal number of chefs so you feel comfortable and least imposed upon in your own home. If you would prefer more dishes, we also offer an extended menu, which you can choose upon booking.

Question 25

Why are some dishes marked "($)"?

Accepted Answer

Certain ingredients in these dishes may make them more costly—and increase your total grocery bill—so we wanted to let you know.

Question 26

Can I choose my Culinista® chef?

Accepted Answer

We thoroughly review all preferences and thoughtfully match you with a chef to meet those needs. If you are unhappy with the match for any reason,

Question 27

When will my chef arrive?

Accepted Answer

For gatherings of 12 or fewer, your Culinista chef will arrive 3-4 hours before service. For gatherings over 12, your chef will arrive 4-6 hours before service.

Question 28

What if my Culinista chef is late?

Accepted Answer

Your Culinista chef is personally shopping for groceries before arrival. Traffic or long lines at the market may cause a delay. If your Culinista chef is going to be more than 30 minutes late, we'll reach out immediately to let you know.

Question 29

Will my chef serve my food?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Your Culinista chef will plate and serve your meal. If your gathering requires additional waitstaff, we’ll staff a reliable server from our trusted network.

Question 30

Should I tip my Culinista chef?

Accepted Answer

All services will be billed with 20% gratuity included, 100% of which will go to your Culinista chef. While there is no expectation to do so, you are welcome to provide an additional cash tip for extraordinary service.

Question 31

How much will groceries cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost of groceries depends on guest count, menu, and service area. An estimated grocery cost will be provided after you

Question 32

What is your cancellation policy for gatherings?

Accepted Answer

You are able to cancel your service at any time prior to 48 hours before your guest arrival time free of charge. If you cancel for any reason between 48 hours and 24 hours before your guest arrival time, you will be charged 50% of the service fee to partially compensate your chef. If you cancel within 24 hours of your guest arrival time, you will be charged the full service fee plus any charges incurred by the chef, inclusive of groceries and travel at the company’s discretion.

Question 33

I have a problem with my gatherings service. Who should I contact?

Accepted Answer

If anything about your service wasn’t quite right, please

Question 34

How does the weekly meal prep service work?

Accepted Answer

After you

Question 35

What areas do you service?

Accepted Answer

Our chef services are available in the NYC metro area, the Hamptons, LA, and the D.C. metro area, though many Culinista® chefs are happy to travel. For services outside of these areas,

Question 36

What does the weekly meal prep service include?

Accepted Answer

The weekly meal prep service includes a Culinista chef grocery shopping for you and coming to your home to prepare six dishes that can be mixed and matched for 3-4 meals throughout the week.

Question 37

How often does the weekly meal prep service happen?

Accepted Answer

We recommend using our weekly meal prep service 1-2 times per week, depending on your lifestyle, family size, and food preferences. You can update the frequency of your service in your dashboard after creating an account.

Question 38

How long will my weekly meal prep service take?

Accepted Answer

You can expect your Culinista chef to be in your home for 3-4 hours total. This time includes prepping, cooking, packing up, and cleaning.

Question 39

How should I prepare for my weekly meal prep service?

Accepted Answer

Please see our

Question 40

Do I need specific tools or pantry items?

Accepted Answer

Please see our

Question 41

Do I need my own containers?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We recommend having at least six containers for a small service, 12 for a medium service, and 18 for a large service to ensure that your food is properly stored to stay fresh throughout the week. Please see our

Question 42

What size service should I order?

Accepted Answer

We know that everyone eats differently. Our sizes are based on household size, but you should adjust your selection based on household appetites and how many meals per week you desire.

Question 43

Why six dishes?

Accepted Answer

Weekly meal preps include six dishes to maximize variety while minimizing your Culinista chef's time in your kitchen. Choose dishes to serve together for a few full meals, or to enhance breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert over the course of the week.

Question 44

Why are some dishes marked "($)"?

Accepted Answer

Certain ingredients in these dishes may make them more costly—and increase your total grocery bill—so we wanted to let you know.

Question 45

Do I have to be home during my weekly meal prep service?

Accepted Answer

Nope. Many clients request chef services during working hours. While not required, we recommend being home for your Culinista chef’s first visit to give a tour of your kitchen. If that's not possible, detailed instructions via text or email work just as well.

Question 46

When will my chef arrive?

Accepted Answer

Culinista chefs start as early as 9 a.m. and as late as 3 p.m. Chefs are available seven days a week. You set the time that works best for you.

Question 47

Can I choose my Culinista chef?

Accepted Answer

We thoroughly review all preferences and thoughtfully match you with a primary chef to meet those needs. If you are unhappy with the match for any reason, let us know and we will find you an alternative.

Question 48

Where do you source your ingredients?

Accepted Answer

Culinista chefs shop locally at our favorite grocers and farmers markets. They shop specifically for you and are happy to accommodate your preferences. They source the freshest and most nutrient-dense items they can find, striving to buy organic and non-GMO produce whenever possible.

Question 49

How do I modify my weekly meal prep service?

Accepted Answer

Once you

Question 50

What is the deadline to schedule a weekly meal prep service?

Accepted Answer

You can view and select menus up to four weeks in advance, and menu selections are due 24 hours prior to service. We will send you an email 72 hours prior to service reminding you to select your menu if you have not done so already.  If you do not elect to skip your service prior to 48 hours before service, you will be charged the full service fee.

Question 51

What if my Culinista chef is late?

Accepted Answer

Your Culinista chef is personally shopping for groceries before arrival. Traffic or long lines at the market may cause a delay. If your Culinista chef is going to be more than 30 minutes late, we'll reach out immediately to let you know.

Question 52

What if my Culinista chef has to cancel?

Accepted Answer

In the rare event that your chef has to cancel, we will make every effort to reassign you a chef. Depending on the amount of notice, we may need to adjust your weekly meal prep date or time.

Question 53

How much does the weekly service cost?

Accepted Answer

Weekly service starts at $250. Additional costs include groceries (dependent on size & dish selection), $50 tip, a $15 travel reimbursement for your chef, and tax. Select markets may be priced higher.

Question 54

How much will groceries cost?

Accepted Answer

Grocery costs will vary depending on your service area and menu selection. The below ranges are meant as general guides:

Question 55

Should I tip my Culinista chef?

Accepted Answer

All services will be billed with 20% gratuity included, 100% of which will go to your Culinista chef. While there is no expectation to do so, you are welcome to provide an additional cash tip for extraordinary service.

Question 56

I have a problem with my weekly meal prep service. Who should I contact?

Accepted Answer

If anything about your service wasn’t quite right, please

Question 57

How do I cancel my weekly meal prep service?

Accepted Answer

You are able to skip, pause, or deactivate your weekly service at any time using your client dashboard prior to 48 hours before your next service. At 48 hours prior to your next service, your service is confirmed and your service fee is nonrefundable. If you cancel within 48 hours of service, you will be charged the full service fee plus any charges incurred by the chef, including groceries and travel at the company’s discretion.

Question 58

Can you accommodate large families?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our goal is to make it easier for you and your family to enjoy dinner together. Our large size accommodates families of up to six people. If your family is larger than six people, please fill out a

Question 59

How do you source Culinista chefs?

Accepted Answer

Our Culinista chefs have diverse backgrounds, including nutrition certifications and Michelin-starred restaurant experience. Their degrees are from schools like the Culinary Institute of America and Cornell's elite hospitality program.

Question 60

How do I redeem a promo code?

Accepted Answer

Email us at q@theculinistas.com to use a promo code for your service.

Question 61

How do I change my payment information?

Accepted Answer

If you need to edit your payment information, please do so

Question 62

Will my weekly meal prep chef serve my food?

Accepted Answer

The standard weekly meal prep service does not include table service. If you'd like a custom service that combines meal prep with table service, please

Question 63

Where are your seasonal and long term chef services available?

Accepted Answer

Our seasonal and long term chef services are available all over the world. Our roster of chefs are largely based in the New York metro area, the D.C. metro area, and Los Angeles, but many are excited to travel. To find a chef in your area,

Question 64

How much do seasonal and long term services cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing for these services is determined case by case. Please