Private Events & Catering
Bring the restaurant experience to your dining room. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party or celebrating a special milestone, the Meal Prep Chef events team is here to bring elevated, chef-crafted dining right to your table.
We specialize in curated, in-home private dinners featuring seasonally inspired menus to celebrate your special occasion.
Event FAQs
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We believe in complete pricing transparency.
Menu Cost: Our standard multi-course menu includes 2 starters, 1 main, 2 sides, and 1 dessert, starting at $125 per person. Additional selections are available for an additional cost.
Chef Labor: In addition to the per-person menu cost, a chef labor fee is added to cover the on-site cooking and execution of your event. This starts at $125/hour at a $500 minimum for 4 hours for one chef. Please note that holiday rates, additional staff for larger guest counts, or premium menu customizations may adjust final labor costs. Plated dinners require a server.
Additional Fees: Additional fees include a 15% administrative fee, a $75* transportation fee (subject to increase for travel outside of NYC), and New York sales tax.Deposit: An initial 50% deposit is required to reserve your event date.
Gratuity: Gratuities are not automatically included on the final invoice and are left to the Client’s discretion.
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Absolutely. Please inform us of your guests' allergies and dietary restrictions in advance.
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Our dedicated events division is happy to design a bespoke menu tailored specifically to your taste, dietary needs, and special occasion.
Because custom events require specialized sourcing and personalized menu development, custom pricing will apply based on your specific requests.
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Our chefs bring their own knives, small tools, and all the ingredients for your meal.
We ask that your kitchen be clear and clean prior to the chef's arrival. We'll need a working stove, oven, sink, standard cooking equipment, and plenty of cleared counter space,
Clients must also provide the platters, dinnerware, glassware, and utensils for serving. -
It depends on your event’s timeline and preferences. We offer two options:
Standard Service: Your chef will handle all food prep, execution, and immediate clean-up, and will depart once the main meal service is complete.
Extended Service: If you would like your chef to remain present until the very end of your event to clear the table and wash final dinner dishes, we are happy to accommodate. Any additional hours required for final clean-up are billed at the chef's hourly rate.
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A 50% deposit is required to confirm your event.
If the event is cancelled, 50% of the paid deposit is non-refundable. The remaining 50% of the original paid deposit is transferrable to a future event of equal or greater value within (3) months of the original event date scheduled.
If the event is cancelled less than fourteen (14) days prior to the scheduled event date, the remaining 50% of the paid deposit will be retained and is non-refundable.
Cancellations made within seven (7) days of the scheduled event date will require payment in full.
The Visionaries Behind Your Next Event
Nathan Merenstein
Nathan’s lifelong love of food began in Denver, cooking alongside both of his grandmothers. That early passion eventually led him to Italy, where he classically trained at the University of Gastronomic Sciences. With over 10 years in the food industry—including his work as a private chef in New York City and Los Angeles—Nathan pairs culinary excellence with his focus on sustainability. As our Director of Events, he looks forward to bringing his expertise and passion to your next gathering.
Director of EventsHolly Ardern
Holly Ardern is an NYC-based chef with a passion for showcasing the highest-quality local, seasonal ingredients through thoughtful preparations. After six years as an Air Force journalist, she moved to New York to train at the Institute of Culinary Education, later honing her skills in Italian fine dining. Drawing inspiration from her Midwest roots, Holly loves creating elevated versions of nostalgic comfort dishes to bring a unique, memorable flavor to the table.
Executive Events Chef
