Frequently Asked Questions
Service Organization
What does the private chef service in a chalet include?
Menu planning, sourcing from trusted suppliers, in-chalet cooking, table service when applicable, and full kitchen clean-up at the end.
How is the private chef’s quote calculated?
It depends on the number of days, daily services, menu complexity, team size, and destination logistics. A detailed quotation and an estimated food cost are provided.
What are the usual mealtime schedules during a ski stay?
As a guideline: breakfast 7:30–9:30, lunch 12:30–14:00, and dinner 18:30–20:30. These adapt to the group’s ski plan and pace.
Does the chef need prior access to the kitchen?
Yes. We request access a few hours before service for mise en place, equipment check, and product delivery.
What if the kitchen is small or not well equipped?
Menus are adapted to the available space. If specific equipment is required, we coordinate it in advance.
Who provides crockery and glassware?
The chalet’s own items are used. Additional rentals can be arranged if necessary.
How many meals per day can be booked?
Half board (breakfast and dinner) or full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Also après-ski snacks, afternoon teas, canapés, and mountain picnic baskets.
Is general chalet cleaning included?
No. The service includes cleaning of the kitchen, dining area, and utensils used. Housekeeping for the rest of the chalet is handled separately.
Menus, Diets & Culinary Experience
Do you adapt menus for dietary restrictions or preferences?
Yes — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, or other needs. Advance notice is essential, especially for allergies.
What styles of cuisine do you offer in the French Alps?
Mediterranean and contemporary French cuisine, Alpine classics (fondue, raclette, tartiflette), and international inspirations. Seasonal themed and surprise menus are also available.
Do you work with kosher, halal, or very strict diets?
Yes, we can coordinate with certified suppliers and dedicated equipment (lead time and extra costs apply).
Are desserts included?
Usually yes. The number of courses and the tone of the evening can be adjusted.
Do you offer homemade bakery and pastries?
On request: artisan breads, pastries, and homemade desserts.
Can you leave ready-to-eat dishes for the next day?
Yes, we can prepare stews, oven dishes, and desserts for later consumption.
Ingredients & Beverages
Are ingredients included in the price?
They can be billed separately at cost (with a detailed report) or included upon request.
Who handles the shopping?
The chef does. We prioritize fresh, local, seasonal products. If an item is unavailable, we suggest a high-quality alternative.
Can you cook with ingredients already in the house?
Evaluated case by case, provided freshness and traceability are guaranteed.
Do you offer wine pairing or wine management?
Yes. We propose pairings, private tastings with a sommelier, and non-alcoholic alternatives.
Families & Children
Do you provide kids’ or baby menus?
Yes. Simple, nutritious dishes and adapted versions of adult menus; purées on request.
Can children have dinner earlier than adults?
Yes, provided it’s within about one hour of difference.
Groups & Events
How many guests can you cater for per service?
From intimate dinners to large family or corporate gatherings, depending on kitchen capacity and logistics
Do you recommend wait staff for large groups?
Yes. For groups of 8–10 or more, we recommend assistants or waiters to maintain service flow and temperature.
Is service plated or sharing-style?
Both options are available, defined during the briefing according to the event’s style.
Can you arrange extra material, flowers, or music?
Yes, we can coordinate with local suppliers.
Alpine Weather & Logistics
What happens if snow blocks access to the chalet?
We plan ahead and purchase in advance. If roads close, we reschedule where possible and follow the agreed cancellation policy.
Can menus change due to weather or product availability?
Yes, we offer equivalent seasonal substitutions.
Do you cook outdoors in winter (terrace, barbecue)?
Only if weather permits and the area is equipped for
What if there’s a power cut or technical issue?
We adapt to available means. Heating and power supply should be confirmed in
Bookings, Payments & Cancellations
How far in advance should I book a private chef in the French Alps?
Several weeks ahead, especially during Christmas, New Year, and half-term.
How is the booking confirmed?
By deposit and signed agreement. The remaining balance is due 10 days before the service. Food, beverages, and extras are reported in an expense summary.
What is your cancellation policy?
Over 30 days: refund minus admin fees. 9–29 days: 50% of deposit. 0–8 days: no refund (a 12-month credit may be issued, minus unrecoverable costs). Full terms apply as per our Conditions.
Are there supplements for holidays or distant locations?
Yes, a surcharge may apply on special dates or remote destinations.
Service Areas & Languages
Which areas of the French Alps do you cover
Courchevel, Méribel, Val d’Isère, Tignes, Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, Val Thorens, and others — subject to availability
Which languages do you speak?
French, English, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese
Safety, Privacy & Operations
How do you manage severe allergies and food safety?
We follow hygiene protocols and avoid cross-contamination. Written notification is required for severe allergies, and processes are adjusted accordingly.
Do you guarantee discretion and privacy for VIP clients?
Absolutely. A confidentiality agreement can be signed on request
Is there a rest day during long stays or replacements if needed?
Yes, for week-long stays a rest day is usually included. In case of force majeure, a replacement protocol applies (subject to availability).
What about tips and pre-stocking?
Gratuities are optional. Pre-stocking before check-in can be arranged on request.
What access and logistics information do you need?
We appreciate clear access instructions, parking details, and contact with the host or concierge. Remote locations may incur a logistical surcharge.
Do you handle leftovers safely?
Yes, we can label and store them with consumption recommendations.
What’s the policy regarding pets and kitchen use
For hygiene reasons, pets are not allowed in the work area during service.
Do you have a staff non-solicitation policy?
Yes, a standard non-solicitation clause applies, detailed in our Terms & Conditions.
Tipping policy?
Gratuities are optional. For team services, tips may be shared between kitchen and service staff.