There’s farm-to-table dining and then there’s chef-to-table dining. A new start-up called Kitchit is pioneering the concept of “bespoke dining” by connecting consumers with top professional chefs to create a customized menu for large, world-class gastronomical adventures or small, casual dinner parties.
The service, which launched in Los Angeles in March, allows people to choose from a marketplace of renowned chefs online and set a request date. The professional chef works with you to create a custom-tailored menu in which he or she will buy all the ingredients, cook the meal at your home, plate, serve, and even clean up at the end.
Each chef, which includes “Top Chef” runner-up Marcel Vigneron and Made by Meg catering founder Meg Hall, sets his or her own prices, which is equivalent to the same price as a meal at a restaurant. The cost typically starts from $25 per person for a basic menu.
Early reservations are encouraged, as well-known chefs have a higher fee and are likely to be limited in availability. Wines, flowers, linens and other items are available for an additional fee.
“I love that Kitchit is a chef and diner advocate site. It promotes great chefs side-by-side, giving the diner all the control in choosing the perfect chef for their event,” says Hall. “It’s incredibly flattering and leads to a more satisfying experience for both parties!”
Founded in San Francisco in September by Brendan Marshall, George Tang and Ian Ferguson, the service is currently available in the Bay Area, Los Angeles and New York.
“People want the ability to connect directly with chefs and create a unique dining experience amongst friends,” says Marshall, a former investment banker. “We’re taking the stress and guess-work out of the dinner party and making it possible for our members to have exclusive access to the best chefs in the region for their get-togethers.”
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