When planning a special occasion — whether it's a birthday dinner, an anniversary, or a summer garden party — one of the biggest decisions is how to serve the food. Should you hire a private chef or go with a traditional catering company?
While both can deliver a fantastic experience, there are some key differences between the two. Here's a breakdown to help you choose the best fit for your event.
What Is a Private Chef Experience?
A private chef creates and cooks a menu specifically for you and your guests, often in your home or holiday property. Think of it as a restaurant-style experience, brought directly to your table — personalised, fresh, and fully serviced.
What to expect with a private chef:
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Bespoke or set menus tailored to your preferences
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On-site cooking using fresh ingredients
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Full plating, presentation, and service (if required)
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Interaction with the chef for a personal, immersive feel
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A spotless kitchen left behind when the meal ends
It’s about the experience, not just the food — and perfect for intimate dinners, small events, or when you want to impress.
What Is Traditional Catering?
Catering services are ideal for larger events where food needs to be prepared in bulk. Dishes are often pre-cooked off-site and delivered ready to serve, sometimes with staff provided for buffet service or table clearing.
What to expect from a caterer:
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Set menus or buffet-style selections
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Often prepared off-site and transported
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More suitable for high guest volumes
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Minimal chef interaction with guests
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Generally more focused on logistics than luxury
Catering is great for weddings, corporate events, or large celebrations with 50+ guests.
Key Differences Explained:
- Menu Style:
Private chefs offer bespoke, fine dining menus tailored to your event. Caterers often provide standardised, buffet-style or fixed menus. - Where Food Is Cooked:
Private chefs cook fresh on-site, in your home or venue. Caterers usually prepare food off-site and deliver it pre-cooked. - Guest Interaction:
Private chefs often interact with guests, offering a more personal and engaging experience. Caterers focus on delivery and logistics with minimal guest contact. - Ideal Guest Size:
Private chefs are best for groups of 2 to 30 people. Traditional catering suits large events of 30+ guests. - Service Style:
Private chefs provide full plating, presentation, and optional table service. Catering tends to be buffet, drop-off, or limited service. - Overall Experience:
A private chef brings a luxury, immersive experience. Catering is designed for practicality and efficiency.
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re planning a private dinner party, a holiday home meal, or a celebration that values quality over quantity, hiring a private chef is the way to go. You’ll enjoy a tailored menu, face-to-face interaction with your chef, and a five-star experience in your own space.
If you’re organising a large event where serving hundreds of people quickly and efficiently is the goal, a traditional catering company may be more practical.
Why Our Clients Choose Portsmouth Private Chefs
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We blend the exclusivity of private dining with the professionalism of event catering
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All chefs are trained to fine dining standards
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Menus can be adapted for any diet, theme, or style
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We travel across Portsmouth, Hampshire, Southsea, and surrounding areas
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Perfect for events between 2 and 30 guests — or larger with our extended team
Let's Talk About Your Event
Need help deciding? We’re happy to guide you. Just send us your event details, and we’ll recommend the perfect chef or service.
Portsmouth Private Chefs
Where the service is personal and the food is unforgettable.
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