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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
I’m a classically trained chef from the New England Culinary Institute with a strong foundation in French cuisine and technique. For years I’ve focused on quality ingredients and precise methods that highlight both flavor and texture.
Traveling to over 20 countries and living in two has broadened my ability to create authentic dishes from around the world. Whether you’re planning a wedding or special event, looking for a personal chef, or interested in private cooking lessons, I bring the same level of care, creativity, and professionalism to every experience.
I look forward to designing a memorable, customized menu and an amazing experience for you and your guests.
Overview
Current Top Pro
Hired 136 times
Serves Reno, NV
Background checked
2 employees
3 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
2024
Services offered
Event type
Additional food/drink
Dessert
Cold beverages (non-alcoholic)
Cold beverages (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 responsiveness.
Excellent 4.9
43 reviews
5
96%
4
2%
3
0%
2
2%
1
0%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Eric J.
Jul 13, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Chris showed up and had everything covered immediately. We didnt have to help him, or show him where anything was. He cooked, cleaned up, was just professional all around. Food was great and prepared quickly. He also brought a drone for some selfies which was a super cool experience. Would book again no problem!
Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 11 - 20 guests • Dinner • Premium (high end ingredients) • Dessert • Asian • Mediterranean / Middle Eastern • Mexican / Latin American • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Ashley H.
5 days ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Chris was simply AMAZING!! We hired him to prepare a seated 4-course dinner for my dad’s 80th birthday. His food was incredible and everyone absolutely loved it- even our picky eaters! He also handled my brother-in-laws dietary restrictions with ease. He’s a real pro and we’d use him again in a heartbeat!! Thank you for creating a beautiful night that my family will never forget!!
Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 6 - 10 guests • Dinner • Standard (basic ingredients) • American - casual • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
James B.
Jul 29, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Chef Chris prepared a delicious gourmet meal in our unit for the family. Special experience celebrating brother and sister in law's anniversary. Chef was also very knowledgeable about the Lake Tahoe area and helped us plan the rest of out stay. Nice person who I'd highly recommend.
Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 6 - 10 guests • Dinner • Standard (basic ingredients) • Dessert • American - formal • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Tua Pouli P.
May 2, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Chef did his stuff man cooked the family surf n turf with a great tasting salad with a fire dessert man whole family loved the meals and the education / History behind the meals… Thanks Chef!!! From the Family
Details: Brunch / dinner party • 6 - 10 guests • Dinner • Dessert • Premium (high end ingredients) • Dessert • Hot beverages (coffee, tea, etc.) • Cold beverages (non-alcoholic) • Southern • Italian • American - formal • Asian • Barbecue • French • Gluten free or celiac • Dairy intolerant • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Troy H.
May 11, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Had a wonderful experience with Chef Chris. He was on time and came fully prepared to cook us a 4 course meal. Food was excellent.
Details: Holiday meal (Mother's day, Valentine's day, etc.) • 6 - 10 guests • Cocktail hour / hors d'oeuvres • Dinner • Dessert • Premium (high end ingredients) • Dessert • American - casual • American - formal • Italian • Southern • Mexican / Latin American • Mediterranean / Middle Eastern • Asian • French • Barbecue • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Credentials
Background Check
Christopher Cowell
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Pricing is per person and varies depending on menu choices. I only use organic or non gmo ingredients to ensure quality. Family style/buffet vs Plated also impacts the pricing. There are no added travel fees unless it is over 50 miles.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
The best way to create the best menu selection is done by a phone consultation. However, the clients preferred communication will be used. There is no pressure to finalize the menu or guest count until 3 days prior to event. A 50% deposit is required to secure the date. Pricing will be adjusted depending on the clients final decision.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a graduate of the New England Culinary Institute and have over 30 years of experience. I have been the executive chef of country clubs, a casino and several stand alone establishments. I am classically trained in French cuisine, very passionate on the Pacific Rim region and can execute many mainstream cuisines.