Private Chef & Caterer

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Introduction: I used thumbtack for a few months back in 2014 and just joined again 3/17, thus only a few hires and reviews. Business is growing! Perhaps you will be giving my next glowing review! As a farm-to-table chef with all the best ingredients that Sonoma County has to offer, my cuisine is season driven, flavorful and super healthy. Multi-course, buffet or drop-off meals, I can accommodate most peoples budgets and style preferences. With over 10 years experience working with prominent and discerning families in the Bay Area, I have the experience, techniques and creativity to wow you and our guests. My services as a caterer and a private chef include menu creation and meal planning, food preparation, plating, table service, clearing and kitchen clean up. Being wine educated, I can provide excellent wine paring suggestions for your meal. Additionally decorating for the occasion with linens, table & service ware, florals can be added if you require assistance. Occasionally I do offer private culinary instruction in my professional kitchen for those who want to learn the basics like knife skills or want to perfect learning how to make gluten free pizza like a pro. What I love about being a chef? Most people think that being a chef is so glamorous and cool. For some it might be, but the fact is it's an incredibly difficult job. Long hours on your feet, the burns & cuts, schlepping heavy loads of groceries & equipment, the endless dishes and cleaning. The two main reasons I keep doing this. One: I get to be super creative. I get inspired by ingredients and the seasons. I love learning new techniques, recipes and flavor combinations. Reason two: at the end of the day I get to see happy smiling people enjoying the delicious food I prepared. Now that is rewarding! Bon Appetite!

Overview

Hired 10 times

3 employees

21 years in business

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Featured Projects

19 photos

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Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and value.

Exceptional 5.0

7 reviews

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Caroline A.

Sep 8, 2014

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Hired on Thumbtack

Dawn made my dad's 60th birthday party a success! She was extremely professional and was open to working with me on a menu that fit our guest list. I received nothing but compliments from my guests on the food and it's all because of her. I would recommend her to anyone looking for someone to cater their event.

Personal Chef

Ryan M.

Nov 1, 2014

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Hired on Thumbtack

The entire experience with Dawn was fantastic and truly exceeded our expectations. She spent time on the front end to ask questions and really learn what we liked. The menu was unique and diversified, with a balance of things we loved and new things we were excited to try. The food ended up tasting incredible (every course), some of the best lamb we've had, and the wine pairings were really good including a Pinot from Oregon. Dawn was great to work with all around, and would highly recommend.

Personal Chef

JP A.

Mar 2, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

Hired Dawn for a dinner party in Sonoma. She was super responsive and totally flexible when we had a last minute change. Her food was amazing and we would 1000% hire her again. We would highly recommend Dawn for any dinner party or event that requires catering.

Personal Chef

Molly H.

May 15, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

Above and beyond!! Dawn was amazing for our dinner at a rental home. She was incredibly accommodating of our various food allergies, brought more than enough food so we even had a few leftovers, came early to prep and left the kitchen perfectly clean. A warm and friendly personality and everything was cooked to perfection. She was very easy to stay in touch with and made for the perfect night!

Event Catering (Drop-off)

Katy M.

May 22, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

we have only talked on the phone, but I like what I hear, her estimate for costs seems fair, and I think she'll do a good job for the party we're hosting at our home on June 10th. I hope I'll get a chance to review again after the event! Thank you.

Wedding and Event Catering

FAQs

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Based on the chosen menu and style of service, (plated, buffet, drop-off) I can estimate the time needed for planning, preparations and service. Then there is the food cost, based on a chosen menu. This cost can run anywhere from 20-50% of total cost. If you have a specific budget I can suggest menus that are within your price range.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I listen. I learn about what you like and don't like. I create meals based on your preferences and needs. Getting to know you is very important for me to be able to create the best experience possible.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
So first and foremost I am an artist! I hold a Bachelors of Fine Art, with a major in photography and painting. My second education was in the Culinary Arts where my focus was on pastry. I do take ongoing culinary classes from masters and I am always acquiring knowledge, new ingredients, techniques and products.