Often, people wonder what is the difference between a personal chef and a private chef. Many believe these terms are interchangeable (spoiler: they aren't). Read about why below. 

What is a private chef?

A private chef, in short, works for one person or family. The private chef would create meals just for the family/individual. The chef may also help manage the kitchen, food shopping, and other dining-related tasks. 

Private chefs usually are full-time employees of just one family. These chefs often live on their employer's property but can live outside of it.

What is a personal chef?

A personal chef usually cooks for lots of different individuals or families. They do not manage any one person's kitchen, but instead bring their own equipment and might even cook off-premise.



Personal chefs are usually more affordable, considering they are not full-time employees. A personal chef may also offer other perks, such as cooking lessons or a meal service. 

Questions and Answers

Where do private/personal chefs live?

Private chefs tend to live on their employer's property, whereas personal chefs rarely do. 

Who do private/personal chefs work with?

Usually, private chefs are full-time employees of just one family or individual, personal chefs typically work with multiple different parties.

Where do private/personal chefs cook?

While there is no definitive answer, private chefs tend to cook on their employer's property, whereas personal chefs work off-premise.