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Frequently Asked Questions

Private Chef Mendocino County | Farm-to-Table | Events & Catering

This FAQ answers common questions about Chef Chantelle’s services, the process of booking a private chef in Mendocino County, pricing insights, and what clients can expect.

Who is Chef Chantelle?

Chef Chantelle is a Trinidadian-born, French-trained private chef based in Mendocino County, California. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University with experience at San Francisco’s Nopa and Miami’s Love & Vegetables, Urban Oasis Project, BLT Steak at the Betsy, Chef Chantelle creates seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine infused with Caribbean flavor and French technique (chefchantelle.com).

What services does Chef Chantelle provide?

Private chef services for intimate dinners, cooking lessons, and Airbnb experiences
Event catering for weddings, company retreats, birthdays, and more
Seasonal farm-to-table dinners at Mendocino Grove during summer months
Custom menus crafted around dietary preferences and local harvests
Interactive experiences where guests may cook alongside Chef Chantelle

Where can Chef Chantelle cook?

Chef Chantelle operates across Mendocino County, including Mendocino, Fort Bragg, Albion, Little River, and inland venues. Services include in-home dining, venue catering, retreat centers, Airbnb rentals, and outdoor glamping sites like Mendocino Grove

How does booking with Chef Chantelle work?

Inquiry & details
- Submit an inquiry via the Contact page with date, guest count, kitchen setup, and dietary restrictions
Proposal & menu
- Chef Chantelle sends a customized menu and quote based on event type
Consultation
- Exchange messages to adjust courses, ingredients, and service style
Confirmation & deposit
- Confirm date and terms; deposit secures the booking
Event execution
- Chef Chantelle arrives, sets up, prepares, serves, and cleans up
Follow-up
- Feedback is welcomed to refine future services

How far in advance should clients book?

Ideal lead time: 4–6 weeks before your event
For weddings or large retreats, allow 8–12 weeks
Seasonal events (June–October) fill quickly—especially Friday Night Dinners at Mendocino Grove

How much does a private chef cost in Mendocino County?

Pricing for Chef Chantelle’s private chef services in Mendocino County varies depending on the number of guests, menu style, service format, and seasonal ingredients. Below is a general pricing guide:

Private Dinners (2–6 guests)
- $150 – $250 per person
- Includes custom menu, organic local ingredients, preparation, full service, and cleanup
- Ideal for romantic dinners, Airbnb experiences, and intimate celebrations
Small Events (7–12 guests)
- $125 – $175 per person
- Family-style or plated service
- Perfect for retreats, birthdays, and small group gatherings
Large Gatherings & Weddings (13+ guests)
- Starting at $95 per person, with average pricing around $125 – $250 per person
- Full catering, including kitchen team, setup, and optional rentals
- Ideal for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and corporate events
Add-Ons Available
- Wine pairings or bar service
- Floral tablescapes and decor
- Grazing boards or cocktail hour snacks
- Interactive cooking components
  Pricing is personalized for each event and includes sourcing from Mendocino County farms. Quotes are provided after reviewing your guest count, event location, and menu preferences.

What’s included in the cost?

Menu and courses, tailored to preferences
Ingredient sourcing, often from local farms
Setup and table staging, including linens and glassware if requested
Full service, including cooking, serving, and cleanup
Beverages typically cost extra unless included in package

What dietary accommodations are available?

Chef Chantelle adapts menus for:

Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets
Allergies and food sensitivities (e.g., nut-free, dairy-free)
Paleo or low-glycemic menus available upon request (chefchantelle.com)

Are wine service and pairings available?

Yes. At private dinners and catered events, wine pairings are available via add-ons or separate bar service. Public dinners at Mendocino Grove often offer beverages for purchase .

Is tipping expected?

Tipping is not required but appreciated. Clients often tip based on service quality and overall experience.

How does Chef Chantelle source ingredients?

Ingredients are sourced from local farms (such as Nye Ranch and Wavelength Farm), foragers, ranchers, and specialty producers in Mendocino. Foods are seasonal and organic whenever possible

What types of events are ideal for hiring Chef Chantelle?

In-home dinners (romantic dinners, family meals, Airbnb experiences)
Retreats (wellness, corporate, creative workshops)
Weddings and rehearsal dinners with seasonal menus
Holiday gatherings and milestone celebrations
Group cooking experiences or classes

What are the benefits of a private chef experience?

Time-saving: no grocery shopping, cooking, or cleaning
Personalized menus made just for your group
Professional presentation and hospitality
Supporting local agriculture and sustainable practices
Educational and interactive if cooking alongside Chef Chantelle

How does Chef Chantelle differ from private chef platforms?

While online platforms (like Take a Chef or Yhangry) connect clients with multiple chefs, Chef Chantelle offers a distinctly personalized approach—supported by Caribbean-French technique, deep local sourcing, seasonal menus, and an emphasis on food justice and accessibility.

How can someone stay updated on dining events?

Join the Fresh List newsletter on chefchantelle.com
Follow @sookram_chantelle on Instagram
Visit the Events page for upcoming dinners, pop-ups, and the Mendocino Grove series

How to get started with Chef Chantelle

Go to the Contact page on chefchantelle.com
Fill out the inquiry form: include date, guest count, location, dietary needs
Await a reply with a proposed menu and quote
Review, ask questions, and confirm
Secure your event with a deposit
Enjoy a memorable farm-to-table dining experience