How to Choose a Private Chef for Your Villa in Saint Martin

Hiring a private chef is one of the best ways to turn a villa stay in Saint Martin into an unforgettable culinary experience. But how do you choose the right chef for your group, budget and occasion? This guide covers the key criteria to evaluate, the questions to ask before booking, realistic price ranges and practical logistics so you can confidently book the perfect private chef for dinners, week-long packages or special events.

9/23/20251 min read

Romantic villa dinner setup in Saint Martin
Romantic villa dinner setup in Saint Martin

When to hire a private chef for your villa

  • short stays vs week-long packages

  • romantic dinners, family-friendly meals, events and weddings
    Paragraph: explain benefits (time saved, bespoke menus, local sourcing, privacy).

Key criteria to evaluate
Culinary style & sample menus

  • Ask for sample menus tailored to your preferences (Creole, seafood, French, vegetarian, kids).
    Experience & references

  • Request references, portfolio, Instagram or gallery; prefer chefs with villa experience.
    Food safety & allergies

  • Verify protocols for allergies and cross-contamination; request written confirmation.
    Staffing & service level

  • Confirm if chef comes with assistant, server, bartender, cleanup included.

Practical questions to ask (checklist)

  • Can you see full sample menus and prices? (ask for PDF)

  • Are ingredients locally sourced, and can you accommodate special diets?

  • What kitchen equipment, pantry and supplies do you require?

  • How many courses and how long will the service take?

  • Is travel/time included in price? Any additional fees (transport, corkage, rental china)?

  • What is the cancellation policy and deposit required?

Typical pricing & what’s usually included

  • Provide realistic ranges (example):

    • Romantic dinner for 2: from $250–$600 (menu, service, some beverages)

    • Family dinner (4–8): $400–$1,200 (multi-course menus)

    • Week package (daily meals): $2,000–$6,000+ depending on meals & staff
      Explain these are samples—final price depends on menu, guests, staffing, ingredients and travel.

Logistics: kitchen access, delivery & timing

  • Checklist for villa owners/guests: confirm kitchen size, available cookware, electricity/water, parking for chef, arrival time, table setup, refrigeration.

  • Recommend a tasting when possible or a video call to review menus.

How Fabulous Feasts helps (social proof)

  • Short paragraph presenting agency/service: sample testimonial quote, link to gallery, mention of menus PDF and video tasting options.

Final checklist before booking

  • Verified menu & allergies, confirmed price & deposit, clear arrival time & staffing plan, signed service agreement.


Ready to book an unforgettable villa dinner in Saint Martin? Request a personalized quote and share your dates, guest count and any dietary needs — we’ll propose sample menus and a transparent pricing package.


FAQ

  1. How far in advance should I book a private chef in Saint Martin?

  2. Can private chefs provide alcohol and bar service?

  3. What if someone has food allergies?

  4. Do chefs handle groceries and cleanup?
    (Provide concise answers under each.)