Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance for events, though we can sometimes accommodate shorter timelines. For peak seasons and holidays, 4-6 weeks is ideal. Weekly meal prep can usually start within a week of booking.

We serve clients nationwide with chefs in 16+ markets including Chicago, New York, Greenville SC, Atlanta, Austin, Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Madison WI, New Jersey, Portland ME, Des Moines, and Raleigh NC. Travel fees may apply depending on your location.

Absolutely! Every menu is customized to your preferences, dietary restrictions, and event theme. Our chefs work directly with you to create the perfect culinary experience. We accommodate all dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and allergy-specific requirements.

Cancellations 90+ days out receive a full refund. Between 30-90 days, a small 5% administrative fee applies. Within 30 days, the deposit is non-refundable. Less than 48 hours before service, full payment is due. See our Terms of Service for full details.

Pricing depends on the type of service, number of guests, menu complexity, and your location. Our instant quote calculator gives you an estimate in minutes. Private events typically start around $95 per person with an $800 minimum. Weekly meal prep starts at $250 plus groceries. In-home chef placements range from $500-$650 per day.

Yes, a 50% deposit is required to secure your booking. The remaining 50% plus any gratuity is due on the day of service. Deposits are paid online through your proposal page.

There is no minimum guest count for private events — we cater everything from intimate dinners for two to large celebrations of 100+. However, there may be minimum service fees for very small events to ensure our chefs are fairly compensated.

We accept all major credit and debit cards through our secure online payment system. Payments can be made directly through your proposal page or invoice link.

We cater all types of events: dinner parties, weddings, corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries, holiday gatherings, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, family reunions, and more. If food is involved, we can help.

Yes! Our weekly meal prep service provides fresh, chef-prepared meals delivered to your home. You choose your dietary preferences, and our chefs handle the rest — planning, shopping, cooking, and packaging.

We accommodate virtually all dietary needs: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, keto, paleo, kosher, halal, and any specific food allergies. Just let us know when booking and we'll design your menu accordingly.

Our chefs bring their own cooking equipment and tools. For events, we can arrange additional serving equipment, tableware, and linens upon request at an additional cost. Standard home kitchens typically have everything we need for meal prep.

It's easy! Use our online calculator to get an instant quote for your private event or meal prep service. You can also submit a consultation request and we'll reach out within 24 hours.

Yes! We encourage clients to connect with their assigned chef before the event. You can view chef profiles on our site and arrange a phone or video call to discuss your vision and preferences.

Yes! Full kitchen cleanup is included with all of our services. Your chef will leave your kitchen in the same condition (or better) than they found it. You won't have to lift a finger.

EPC combines the talent of professionally trained chefs with technology that makes booking seamless. Our AI-powered proposals, instant pricing, and personalized matching mean you get a better experience faster. Plus, every chef is vetted and trained to our standards.

EPC is a first-of-its-kind cooperative for hospitality professionals. Sign up through our Get Started page and select "Chef / Contractor" during registration. You'll be paired with a mentor and can start earning right away.

You don't need private chef experience, but you should know your way around a professional kitchen and be able to execute a wide range of cuisines. We look for professional culinary experience, food safety certifications, and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Our chefs keep 85% of each service fee plus 100% of gratuity. The remaining 15% goes to EPC as company shares — which means your commission converts to ownership stakes automatically. A 50% deposit is collected upfront and the remaining 50% plus gratuity is settled on the day of service. Payment is processed weekly via direct deposit.

Yes. As an EPC contractor (1099), you have the flexibility to accept or decline assignments based on your availability. You manage your own schedule through your chef portal. You can even work remotely if you move to a different city.

EPC provides mentorship from experienced chefs, thousands of example menus, logo and branding design, social media support, vendor accounts, business tools, and a dedicated sales team that handles all client acquisition. Our sales team (comprised of experienced chefs) manages leads and pricing so you can focus on cooking.

Higher pay, self-created schedules, fewer hours, unlimited vacation, and full autonomy over your craft. Plus, you have a path to earn a stake in the company through our shared options pool reserved for our workers. EPC was created by chefs, for chefs.