About this Experience
What you'll do:
Invite Chef Brenda of La Vida Culinary into your home (or vacation rental) for a one-of-a-kind private dining experience. From intimate dinners to lively gatherings, she’ll handle everything — sourcing seasonal ingredients, designing a menu tailored to your preferences, cooking each course with care, and even cleaning up afterward. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and savor an elevated yet approachable meal that feels like a restaurant in your own space. Whether it’s a special celebration, a family night, or simply a chance to treat yourself, this experience turns an ordinary evening into something unforgettable.
Why we love it for your party:
A true chef-led dining experience — more than takeout, more than catering
Fully customized menus designed around your tastes and dietary needs
All-inclusive service: shopping, cooking, plating, and cleanup are handled for you
Fresh, seasonal, top-quality ingredients in every dish
Elevated but unpretentious — luxury dining in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere
Professional, personal touch — you’ll feel cared for, not just served
About this experience partner:
Chef Brenda, founder of La Vida Culinary, has spent nearly two decades perfecting her craft and creating unforgettable meals. Based in Santa Barbara, she brings passion, professionalism, and warmth to every table. Known for her ability to listen and adapt, she crafts menus that reflect each client’s tastes while introducing fresh culinary ideas and global influences. Her mission: to make exceptional food accessible, approachable, and memorable — every time.
Additional Information:
Service available in Santa Barbara, Ojai, Malibu, Ventura County, Thousand Oaks & surrounding CA areas
Each experience is customized — pricing varies by guest count, menu, and occasion
Perfect for dinner parties, vacation stays, family meals, or special celebrations
No prep required from clients — the chef handles everything start to finish
Champagne, wine, or beverage pairings can be incorporated (confirm upon booking)
Book This Experience
Visit the experience booking site to check availability and book your experience.
LocationLos Angeles, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Stay right where you are because this party's coming to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does a personal chef do?
A personal chef plans a custom menu, shops for ingredients, cooks in the client’s home, serves the meal, and handles cleanup. It’s a full-service, in-home dining experience — not just food delivery.
How is this different from catering or meal prep?
Unlike catering, the chef is on-site preparing everything fresh for that specific client or group. There are no reheated trays or mass-produced dishes.
Do you cook in my home or bring the food already made?
All meals are cooked fresh in the client’s kitchen. We coordinate in advance to make sure the space is ready.
Do you stay during the meal or just cook and leave?
It depends on the booking. For multi-course dinners, the chef usually stays to serve. For simpler services, the chef may leave after cooking and cleaning.
Can I request specific dishes or cuisines?
Yes — menus are fully customized to your tastes, from comfort food to fine dining or cultural favorites.
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Do you accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?
Definitely. Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, keto, low-sodium, and more are all accommodated safely.
How far in advance do I need to choose the menu?
Ideally 5–7 days before the event. Last-minute bookings may have limited options.
Can you create full plant-based, gluten-free, or keto menus?
Yes — we specialize in fully customized menus, including plant-based, keto, paleo, and allergen-sensitive.
Will you clean up after the meal?
Absolutely. The kitchen is left spotless with dishes washed and surfaces wiped down.
How long are you in my home on the day of service?
Typically 3–6 hours, depending on the event and menu.
Do you bring the groceries or shop with mine?
The chef sources all ingredients unless otherwise arranged.
How much does the service cost?
Pricing depends on guests, courses, and menu complexity. A transparent quote is provided upfront.
Is pricing per person or per event?
Usually per event. For larger groups, per-person pricing applies.
What’s included in the price?
Planning, grocery shopping, prep, cooking, service (if requested), and cleanup. Ingredients and travel are included in the quote.
How far in advance should I book?
Two weeks is ideal, but last-minute bookings may be possible.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, a deposit secures your date. Full payment is due prior to the event.
What’s your cancellation policy?
Flexible rescheduling is available with notice. Cancellations within 72 hours may forfeit the deposit.
