10 Tips for Planning a Private Chef Dinner Party

Planning a private chef dinner party in Portugal is a smart way to combine convenience with an unforgettable dining experience. Here's what you need to know:

• Choose the right chef: Look for professional experience, client reviews, and menu customisation options.

• Set your budget and guest list: Costs range from €49 to €93 per person, depending on group size and menu.

• Create a seasonal menu: Focus on local, fresh Portuguese ingredients like seafood, figs, and chestnuts.

• Communicate dietary needs early: Ensure all guests' preferences and restrictions are addressed.

• Select wine pairings: Portuguese wines like Vinho Verde or Douro reds elevate the meal.

• Decorate your table: Use Portuguese elements like Madeira lace and ceramic dishware for a local touch.

• Plan timing and staffing: Structure the evening with a clear timeline and confirm staffing needs.

• Prepare your kitchen: Clear space and ensure appliances are ready for the chef's arrival.

• Discuss payment and leftovers: Confirm costs, tipping, and how leftovers will be handled.

• Give feedback: Share your thoughts to help improve future events.

With proper planning, your private chef dinner party will be smooth, stress-free, and memorable.

Private Chef Does A Dinner Party for 20 Out on The Lake

1. Select a Private Chef with the Right Experience

Choosing the right chef can make or break your dinner party. Start by looking for someone with professional culinary training and at least a year of experience, though five years is often ideal. Chefs who have honed their craft in top-tier establishments are better prepared to bring restaurant-quality meals to your table at home. This initial step is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable private dining experience.

In Portugal, where culinary traditions are part of the culture, you’ll find chefs with a variety of backgrounds. For example, Justin Jennings Private Chef brings over 25 years of international experience, offering customised menus starting at €65 per person with a minimum of 10 guests in Lisbon and Cascais.

Client feedback is another essential factor. Platforms like Take a Chef provide insights, with an average score of 4.7 from 12,309 reviews. Specific ratings for food quality and cleanliness stand at 4.72 and 4.84, respectively. One glowing review from August 2025 highlights Chef Lino Mendes’ skills, with Janet Lavack describing:

the most amazing, traditional Portuguese meal

at her event in Lagoa e Carvoeiro.

Beyond experience, menu customisation and ingredient selection should be part of your discussions with potential chefs. Talk to them about their familiarity with Portuguese ingredients, seasonal produce, and their ability to design menus that celebrate local flavours. Ask for sample menus featuring regional classics like Bacalhau à Brás, Cataplana de Marisco, or Alheira to gauge their expertise.

Lastly, confirm their commitment to sourcing fresh, local ingredients. Top chefs prioritise Atlantic seafood, market-fresh produce, and seasonal vegetables. This not only enhances the authenticity of the dishes but also supports Portugal’s rich culinary heritage.

2. Define Your Guest List and Budget

Your guest list plays a huge role in shaping the vibe of your dinner party and directly influences how much you’ll spend. Private chefs in Portugal cater to everything from cosy dinners for two to large-scale events with hundreds of guests. Interestingly, the cost per person tends to drop as the guest count rises. On average, prices range between €49 and €93 per person: a dinner for just two might cost €93 per person, while groups of 7 to 12 can pay around €46 per person, and for parties with 13 or more, it’s approximately €49 per person. For example, Justin Jennings Private Chef offers tailored menus starting at €65 per person for groups of 10 or more in Lisbon and Cascais.

For gatherings of up to 12 guests, you’ll typically only need one chef. This ensures a personal touch, with the chef managing both cooking and serving. Larger events, however, will likely require extra staff, so be sure to account for that in your budget. In 2024, Chef Jack McCartney catered a home party for 25 guests in Cascais e Estoril. He not only handled the cooking but also coordinated wine glass rentals and accommodated various dietary needs, earning high praise for his organisation and communication skills.

Don’t forget to set aside a separate budget for wine and any additional services, as alcoholic beverages are usually not included in the chef’s base fee. Booking on weekdays can help you save 15–20% compared to weekends or holidays. As ChefMaison points out, "From just 5 guests, it can already be more cost-effective than dining out". This makes hiring a private chef an appealing option for mid-sized gatherings.

Finally, plan to tip between 10–25% for exceptional service. Once you’ve finalised your guest list and budget, you’ll be ready to move on to designing a seasonal menu that highlights the best of Portuguese ingredients.

3. Design a Seasonal Menu with Portuguese Ingredients

Once you’ve sorted out the logistics, crafting a menu that reflects the seasons is the next step to creating an authentic and memorable dining experience. A seasonal menu not only enhances the quality of your private dinner party but also celebrates the essence of Portuguese cuisine. Known for its deep connection to the land and sea, Portuguese cooking thrives on fresh, seasonal ingredients, bringing bold and vibrant flavours to the table. Rooted in centuries of maritime exploration, the country’s culinary traditions are a testament to its rich heritage and Atlantic influences.

To create a menu that truly shines, focus on the best produce each season has to offer. In spring, think broad beans and tender asparagus. For summer, incorporate sweet figs and fresh sardines. Autumn brings earthy chestnuts and juicy pomegranates, while winter offers Pêra Rocha pears and hearty cabbages. When it comes to seafood, sourcing directly from local markets like those in Lagos and Sagres, or the Alvor lagoon and Costa Vicentina, ensures a taste of the ocean’s finest. For fruits and vegetables, the fertile lands of the Algarve and Alentejo regions are unbeatable.

Portuguese cuisine is a beautiful balance of tradition and innovation. Talented chefs often take beloved classics like Bacalhau à Brás, Açorda de Marisco, or Duck Rice and reimagine them with modern techniques. For example, Justin Jennings Private Chef is known for crafting bespoke menus that respect traditional flavours while introducing creative twists.

Many dishes in Portuguese gastronomy are tied to specific times of the year, making seasonal dining even more meaningful. A typical menu might include hearty meats like pork, an array of fish and seafood, freshly baked bread, and, of course, exceptional Portuguese wines. To ensure authenticity, your chef can incorporate a classic refogado - a base of caramelised onions, garlic, tomato, and bay leaf - into the dishes, creating a menu that feels both refined and unmistakably Portuguese.

4. Communicate Dietary Requirements in Advance

To host a stress-free and enjoyable dinner party, it's crucial to gather your guests' dietary preferences and restrictions early on. When sending out invitations, include a request for information about allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary choices, like vegetarian or vegan diets. This step ensures that everyone can enjoy the meal without concern, while also giving the chef enough time to create a menu that caters to all needs.

Make sure to share these details with your chef as soon as possible. Whether it's gluten-free options or plant-based dishes, providing clear requirements allows the chef to craft a menu using the freshest ingredients available. Open communication with your chef is key - it gives them the chance to make any necessary adjustments and clarify details well in advance.

A great example of the importance of clear dietary communication comes from Edana M., who organised a private dining event in July 2025. Chef Rogério went above and beyond to accommodate all dietary needs for her family gathering. She shared:

We even had some dietary needs that Rogério ensured were met. Each course was explained in full, detailing how everything was made and with what ingredients. This was a wonderful evening and will always be a special family memory for us. Thank you Rogério and Ines for an unforgettable night! You were perfect!

If your event falls on a special date, booking early is even more essential. This ensures the chef has ample time to source top-quality ingredients and design dishes that will impress and satisfy every guest.

5. Choose Wine Pairings from Portuguese Vineyards

Bring your seasonal menu to life with carefully selected Portuguese wines that perfectly complement each dish.

Portugal’s wine regions are home to a rich variety of native grape types, offering something for every palate. The art of wine pairing, or harmonização, is deeply rooted in Portuguese traditions, blending food and wine in a way that enhances the dining experience.

When choosing wines, consider the region and its specialties: crisp coastal whites pair beautifully with Atlantic seafood, while robust reds from inland areas are ideal for meat dishes. For a classic Portuguese dinner party, Vinho Verde is a popular choice. This light, refreshing white wine pairs effortlessly with starters like Queijo Fresco and main dishes such as Bacalhau à Brás [28,29].

Don’t feel confined by strict pairing rules. A lighter red or a chilled rosé can also pair wonderfully with various petiscos. Lean on your private chef’s expertise - they’ll have an eye for selecting wines that complement your menu in unexpected ways.

Your chef’s understanding of local vineyards and terroir is invaluable. They might suggest standout bottles from regions like Douro, Dão, Alentejo, or Bairrada to match your custom menu [30,31]. Want to elevate the occasion further? Include a Portuguese Espumante - a sparkling wine that’s perfect for toasts or as a refreshing aperitif.

6. Arrange a Portuguese-Inspired Table Setting

Bring the charm of Portugal to your dining space by incorporating elements that showcase the country’s renowned craftsmanship and warm hospitality.

Start with the foundation: the table linen. If you're aiming for a touch of luxury, consider using Madeira lace, a hallmark of Portuguese elegance. However, if you’re looking for something simpler, a crisp white tablecloth works beautifully as a neutral base. Add woven placemats and colourful cotton napkins to introduce texture and a pop of colour to the setting.

When it comes to dishware, Portuguese porcelain is a must. Brands like Vista Alegre offer timeless collections, such as the "Cozinha Velha" design, which celebrate Portugal’s rich ceramic traditions. These pieces not only elevate the meal but also honour the artistry behind them.

To complete the look, focus on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Scatter candles across the table for a soft, intimate glow. Incorporate decorative bowls in earthy tones like red and brown, reminiscent of traditional Portuguese pottery [17]. These subtle details tie the setting together, grounding it in Portuguese heritage without overwhelming the space.

With these thoughtful touches, your table setting becomes the perfect stage for showcasing your culinary creations.

7. Plan Service Timing and Staff Requirements

After finalising your menu and dietary considerations, it’s time to focus on the finer details of service timing and staffing. These elements can make or break the flow of your dinner party. A well-timed schedule ensures guests enjoy each course at a relaxed pace. Aim for a three-hour event, starting at 19:00 on weekdays or between 18:00 and 20:00 on weekends, depending on your guests’ preferences and availability.

To keep the evening seamless, structure your timeline thoughtfully. Begin with cocktails and small appetisers about 30 minutes after guests arrive. Plan to serve the main course roughly an hour later, spacing courses - like appetisers, entrées, and desserts - by 15 to 30 minutes. This approach creates a smooth progression and avoids any sense of rushing. As Virginia Stockwell wisely advises, "The timeline has to be perfected to ensure guests are receiving their meal on time".

When it comes to staffing, let your guest count guide your decisions. Most private chefs can manage cooking and serving for up to 12 guests on their own. However, if you’re hosting a larger group or planning an intricate multi-course menu, you’ll likely need additional servers to ensure everything runs smoothly. To avoid last-minute stress, confirm details like the guest count, service style, and timing with your chef a week in advance, either by email or phone. This is also the time to discuss dietary needs and any specific kitchen requirements.

A great example comes from August 2024, when Ivor M. hosted a party of 10. Reflecting on the event, he shared that the chef "prepared and served with true service expertise, allowing everyone to savour each course without rushing".

Your chef will handle everything from preparation to cleanup, letting you focus on enjoying the evening with your guests.

8. Prepare Your Kitchen for the Chef's Arrival

When your chef arrives - typically 2 to 4 hours before the event - they bring fresh ingredients and any special tools they need, but they’ll rely on your kitchen setup to work their magic.

To make things run smoothly, start by tidying up your kitchen. Clear off the countertops, empty the sink, and double-check that all your appliances are in working order. You’ll also need to have your own tableware and glassware ready. Some chefs may provide specific instructions ahead of time, so it’s a good idea to follow those.

During the booking process, share details about your kitchen layout, the equipment you have available, and any concerns you might have. This helps the chef prepare and avoids any last-minute surprises.

One less thing to worry about? Cleanup. Your chef takes care of it, and the results speak for themselves - an average cleanup score of 4.84. Renata C. shared her experience:

The food was prepared in my kitchen by professionals. Even though they had never been to my home before, they moved around with ease and left the kitchen and all tableware completely clean.

With the chef handling everything from setup to cleanup, you’re free to focus on enjoying your guests and the meal. It’s all about creating a stress-free dining experience.

9. Clarify Payment Terms and Leftover Arrangements

Make sure to display the full price upfront. This way, there’s no guessing about what you’re paying for - it should include everything: local sales tax, ingredient shopping, cooking, serving, and even cleanup.

In Portugal, private chef services typically cost between €50 and over €100 per person, depending on factors like the size of your group, the menu choices, and seasonal ingredients. Some chefs may require a deposit to lock in your booking, with the rest of the payment due closer to your event date. Be sure to confirm when payments are due and if there’s a deadline for making menu changes. It’s also a good idea to discuss tipping and how leftovers will be handled.

Tipping is entirely up to you. Check with your chef beforehand to understand their expectations around gratuity. Sorting this out in advance will help you avoid any awkward moments later.

Leftovers are another detail to nail down. Many chefs and services don’t handle packaging or managing leftovers, so you’ll want to confirm this ahead of time. This is especially important if you’re planning a large menu that could leave you with extra food. Knowing the plan in advance can help you reduce waste and keep things running smoothly.

Sorting out these details early will help ensure your evening goes off without a hitch.

10. Provide Feedback After Your Event

Once your dinner party has come to an end, it’s time to reflect on the experience and share your thoughts with your chef. Providing feedback is an essential step - it helps fine-tune their service and ensures even better events in the future. The ideal moment to do this is either right after the meal or at the conclusion of the service, while the details are still fresh in your mind.

When giving feedback, aim to be honest but considerate, and focus on specifics. Highlight what stood out and suggest areas for improvement. For instance, you could say, "I’d prefer my dishes with less salt", or "Adding more spice would be great for my taste." These kinds of comments give the chef clear, actionable insights for future occasions. If you booked your dinner through our website, you might receive an email with a personalised link to leave a review within 24 hours.

"The purpose of feedback is to support and improve the efforts of people, not to dump on people you don't like." - Francine Crystal, MIT Human Resources

Pair a rating with open-ended comments to provide a mix of measurable data and practical suggestions. Questions like, "What could have made your experience even better?" can help chefs refine their approach. Don’t forget to mention standout moments - whether it was an unforgettable dish, the chef’s attentiveness, or their efforts to accommodate dietary restrictions. Positive feedback not only boosts the chef’s professional reputation but also encourages others to book their services.

If something didn’t go as planned, address it directly with the chef or reach out to our support team, especially if it’s an urgent matter. Constructive feedback is invaluable - it helps chefs improve and ensures a better experience next time. Your thoughtful input is the final piece in completing the event journey.

Conclusion

Organising a private chef dinner party in Portugal can be a breeze when you follow a structured plan. The essentials? Picking the right chef, customising your menu, and ironing out the finer details. Clear communication - whether it’s about dietary preferences, kitchen arrangements, or payment terms - goes a long way in ensuring everything runs smoothly.

The growing popularity of private chef services in Portugal highlights the appeal of these tailored culinary experiences. Over the past year, bookings have jumped by 36%, and platforms report an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 12,309 reviews. Guests often rave about the professionalism, exceptional food, and the stress-free experience of having a chef handle everything - from sourcing ingredients to tidying up afterward.

Careful planning, from table décor to the timing of each course, creates the perfect atmosphere for a memorable evening. Thoughtful details not only delight your guests but also allow you to fully enjoy the occasion. And don’t forget - providing feedback after the event helps improve future experiences and supports the chef in maintaining high standards.

If you're planning an event in Lisbon, Cascais, or nearby areas, consider Justin Jennings Private Chef. With over 25 years of international culinary experience, Justin specialises in creating bespoke menus inspired by diverse cuisines. Starting at €65 per person for groups of 10 or more, you can indulge in a tailored 3-course dinner. Whether it’s a small gathering or a corporate event for up to 200 attendees, the right chef can turn your vision into an extraordinary reality.

FAQs

What should I consider when selecting a private chef for my dinner party?

When selecting a private chef, it's essential to look into their background and read client reviews to gauge their reputation. Talk through your preferences to ensure they can craft a personalised menu that aligns with your tastes and any specific dietary needs. It's also important to confirm their commitment to professionalism, hygiene, and precision in their work. Lastly, have a clear discussion about the fees (in euros, €) and the services included to prevent any unexpected costs.

How can I set a realistic budget for a private chef dinner party?

When organising a private chef dinner party, there are a few important things to keep in mind while planning your budget. Key factors include the number of guests, the complexity of the menu, and whether extras like drinks or additional services will be part of the package. The use of seasonal ingredients and regional variations can also play a role in shaping the overall cost.

In Portugal, you can expect prices to range between 46 € and 93 € per person, depending on the size of your group and how much customisation is involved. To make sure everything runs smoothly, it’s a good idea to communicate your preferences and budget clearly with the chef ahead of time.

How can I make sure the chef accommodates all dietary requirements?

When booking, it’s essential to inform the chef about any allergies, intolerances, or specific dietary preferences. Be as detailed as possible and provide this information well ahead of time. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures everyone’s needs are considered.

By sharing these details early, the chef can adapt the menu to accommodate your requirements, making sure every guest can safely enjoy their meal. If you have any concerns or need adjustments, don’t shy away from asking - the aim is to craft an enjoyable and memorable dining experience for all.