Frequently Asked Questions About Eat with Eli's Personal Chef Service
How often will you cook for me?
Most clients prefer once-a-week service, but that is up to you. I can prepare meals for you once a week, twice a month, or just once in a while, when you need some extra help in the kitchen.
What are portion sizes like?
The portion sizes are very generous. I prefer you have a little extra left over than to be wanting more. However, we will tweak this to work within your desires. If you hate leftovers, I will take that into account when preparing your food.
Where do you cook the meals?
I cook in the homes of my clients.
The portion sizes are very generous. I prefer you have a little extra left over than to be wanting more. However, we will tweak this to work within your desires. If you hate leftovers, I will take that into account when preparing your food.
Where do you cook the meals?
I cook in the homes of my clients.
Where do you shop?
I shop at local markets, including Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Bob's Seafood and other specialty shops.
What kitchen equipment do I need?
When we meet for your consultation, I will bring a list of useful kitchen equipment and I will go through your kitchen for a full assessment. If you need updated items, I will purchase these in consultation with you. I bring many basic items with me, such as knives.
What containers do you use?
I prefer to use glass storage containers, as they can go from fridge to freezer to oven with no problem. They don't retain odors, are BPA-free and stack well for you to see your food in the refrigerator. If you don't have enough containers, I will purchase them for you, for a one time fee, in the range of $75-$100.
How much room do I need to store meals?
This depends on the number of meals and portions. A good amount of space is necessary in both the refrigerator and freezer.
How long do meals last?
In the refrigerator, entrees should be consumed within 7 days of cooking depending on the type of food. Cooked, refrigerated fish dishes should always be consumed within 2 days. Many meals can be frozen for longer retention.
How do I heat and serve the meals?
I will provide you with instructions for defrosting, reheating and ideal serving temperatures for all of your meals. Most meals can be microwaved, although stovetop and oven reheating is recommended.
How much room do I need to store meals?
This depends on the number of meals and portions. A good amount of space is necessary in both the refrigerator and freezer.
How long do meals last?
In the refrigerator, entrees should be consumed within 7 days of cooking depending on the type of food. Cooked, refrigerated fish dishes should always be consumed within 2 days. Many meals can be frozen for longer retention.
How do I heat and serve the meals?
I will provide you with instructions for defrosting, reheating and ideal serving temperatures for all of your meals. Most meals can be microwaved, although stovetop and oven reheating is recommended.
How much will this cost?
Your invoice will vary based on the cost of ingredients for a specific week and the amount of time that it takes Eat with Eli to prepare your meals. Generally the service charge for a week is between $200-250 and the groceries average $70-150. The cost of groceries is aways in addition to the service fee.
How do I pay?
I request payment after each week of service. Many clients choose to process their payment through online bill pay, or others simply send a check.
What if I go on vacation?
The great thing about having a personal chef service is the flexibility it affords you. If you'd like to take a week off, as long as you give 7 days notice, that's no problem. If you'd prefer frozen meals ready for you upon your return, Eat with Eli can cook while you're away.
Your invoice will vary based on the cost of ingredients for a specific week and the amount of time that it takes Eat with Eli to prepare your meals. Generally the service charge for a week is between $200-250 and the groceries average $70-150. The cost of groceries is aways in addition to the service fee.
How do I pay?
I request payment after each week of service. Many clients choose to process their payment through online bill pay, or others simply send a check.
What if I go on vacation?
The great thing about having a personal chef service is the flexibility it affords you. If you'd like to take a week off, as long as you give 7 days notice, that's no problem. If you'd prefer frozen meals ready for you upon your return, Eat with Eli can cook while you're away.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
If you cancel or reschedule within 7 days of your next slot, it's no problem. However, if you cancel within 7 days there is a cancellation $125 fee. Emergencies and last minute changes will be assessed on an individualized basis.
For more information, contact Eat with Eli here
