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Meals by Maria

$55/person
Starting price


Scheduling
Budget per person

Responds within a day


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About
Hi, I’m Maria — a passionate personal chef based in San Diego, offering wholesome, flavorful meals made with organic, quality ingredients and love. I provide weekly meal prep (in-home or delivered), private dinners, and personalized menus tailored to your dietary needs—from family-friendly meals to individuals, date nights, or any special occasion. I focus on quality, flavor, local ingredients when possible, organic/ grass fed meats and wild caught seafood if desired. Whether you’re a busy parent, health-conscious professional, or vacationing family, I create food that nourishes and delights—without the stress of planning or cooking.
Overview

Hired 4 times

Serves Chula Vista, CA

Background checked

1 employee

3 years in business

Business hours

Sun12:00 am - 11:59 pmMon12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, and Zelle.

Services offered
Event type
Additional food/drink

Dessert

Cold beverages (non-alcoholic)

Hot beverages (coffee, tea, etc.)

Cuisine types

American - casual

American - formal

Italian

Southern

Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews

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

Exceptional 5.0

8 reviews

5

100%

4

0%

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Read reviews that mention:


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Shae L.

Oct 23, 2025

Hired on Thumbtack

Maria was absolutely amazing! She went above and beyond to make sure that everything was perfect. She had so many little special touches that meant so much. Aside from her just being such a nice and easy person to work with, Maria’s food was FABULOUS!!! From start to finish. A delicious goat cheese appetizer, fresh and yummy Caesar salad, and a 5 star beef bolognese! Everyone in the family was happy and had full tummies! Oh and a super great dessert too! Even the table setting looked gorgeous! I wish I had taken more photos! I was too busy eating :) Her partner Suzanne, was also there as a server and that made everything very smooth! Suzanne was also great, they made a perfect team! I would recommend Maria to anyone looking for a delicious, on time, perfect meal! I would be thrilled to have Maria be my chef at any event! Thank you!

Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 11 - 20 guests • Dinner • I'm flexible • Dessert • Italian • Mexican / Latin American • Mediterranean / Middle Eastern • Asian • Vegetarian or vegan • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.

Personal Chef
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Amber B.

Oct 25, 2025

Maria is truly exceptional at what she does! Her passion for cooking shines through in every meal she prepares. You can taste the love and dedication she puts into her work — everything is fresh, beautifully presented, and thoughtfully crafted. Maria is not only polite and professional, but she genuinely cares about the people she works with. Her attention to detail and commitment to creating a memorable experience make her stand out. She takes the time to understand your preferences and ensures that every dish feels personal and made just for you. If you’re looking for someone who combines skill, heart, and creativity in the kitchen, Maria is the one to trust!
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Blanca H.

Sep 15, 2025

Hired on Thumbtack

Honestly, Maria was incredible. We hosted a bridal shower in San Diego (we’re not from the area), and finding someone we could trust from a distance felt a little overwhelming, until we found Maria’s Catering. From the very beginning, she was so kind, patient, and easy to communicate with. We instantly felt like we were in good hands. The food? Unreal. The brunch was beyond delicious, the iced coffee and coconut water shots were such a hit, and the fresh fruit was probably the best I’ve ever had at an event. Everything was beautifully set up, super fresh, and just felt thoughtful. Maria went above and beyond. She made the whole experience feel effortless for us, and you could tell she genuinely cared. We were so, so happy with everything. If you’re thinking about booking her, don’t hesitate. She’s amazing.

Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 11 - 20 guests • Breakfast / brunch • I'm flexible • Dessert • Hot beverages (coffee, tea, etc.) • American - casual • American - formal • Mexican / Latin American • Vegetarian or vegan • I'm flexible • Only once • My home, venue, etc.

Personal Chef
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Irene L.

Oct 29, 2025

Hired on Thumbtack

Maria really exceeded our expectations! We will definitely not hesitate to recommend her to the toughest critics!

Details: Regular meal • 2 guests • Lunch • Dinner • Premium (high end ingredients) • American - casual • I'm flexible • Weekly • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.

Personal Chef
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Aleshea L.

Oct 24, 2025

Maria is a one of a kind! Not only is her food delicious, but her personality is just as wonderful. If you want an overall great experience, look no further. Thank you Maria for the quality and love you put into your work.
Credentials
Background Check

Maria Presti

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