Private Chef
Big Boards Catering offers personalized private chef service across Clermont, FL, with multi course meals cooked fresh in your home by Chef Andy Raphael.
The Top Private Chef in clermont, FL
Big Boards Catering brings a personalized private chef experience to homes across Clermont, FL. Chef Andy Raphael owns and operates the company, and he cooks each private dinner himself with hands on attention. We build every menu around your tastes, your occasion, and your guests. Refined plates like Tomahawk Steak, Lobster Tails, and Beef Tenderloin with Rosemary Garlic & Shallots anchor our private dinners. We pair those mains with sides such as Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans with Almonds Bacon & Black Pepper, and fresh salads. We handle shopping, prep, cooking, plating, and cleanup, so you stay free to enjoy the evening. Our service suits date nights, anniversaries, small dinner parties, and intimate celebrations. We plan around dietary needs, including vegetarian, gluten conscious, and allergy aware requests. Cooking happens fresh in your kitchen, so every course arrives at its peak. Pricing stays transparent and itemized, so you know what each course costs. Clear communication starts at your first call and runs through the final plate. When you book Big Boards Catering, you get a private chef who treats your evening with real care.
So my wife and I had Andy and his team over last night for a private dinner with friends… words cannot express how amazing and incredible this experience was. My friends were all left in awe of how wonderful the service, the food and the atmosphere was. They made sure everything was taken care of and even asked my wife to check the kitchen to ensure that they left it cleaner than when they arrived. Absolutely loved this and will be using them again.
The absolute best food and service I have ever experienced. I will use Andy’s catering company for all my personal and business events in the future.
I can't tell if it was the food or the experience that I liked most but both were fantastic.
Big Boards did an event at our annual camp for special needs two weeks ago. The staff was accommodating for our many needs and fantastic to work with! They helped me plan everything from start to finish and brought plenty of their staff to help serve and get things out quickly. Not only was the food flavorful and delicious, the buffet they set up was beautiful! The vines and flowers around the buffet table, and the carafes they used for everything were stunning. Extremely professional, clean, and super helpful. I will definitely be using them again in the future.
Delicious food and even better service, I had Chef Andy take care of the meal part of my housewarming party and I could not stop getting compliments on the food. By far the best pulled pork and grits I’ve had in my life!
Andy and his team made my milestone birthday party absolutely fabulous! The food was delicious and the presentation was festive and elegant. All of my guests raved about how they enjoyed the food. The set up and take down were super smooth as well. I highly recommend Big Boards Catering!
I recently attended a birthday party catered by Big Board Catering. The food was excellent and the shrimp and grits were unmatched! I highly recommend Big Boards!
We had Chef Andy and Big Boards cater my wedding a few weeks back and it was nothing short of amazing! Andy is the absolute best and always made himself available to me no matter what time it was. He listened to all my crazy requests (some of them being unreasonably last minute) and he made it happen! We personally asked for crab cakes to be part of the menu and even though it was not something he had done previously he KNOCKED IT OUT OF THE PARK (definitely recommend those for your event!). He was also the life of the party personally my guests could not stop talking about him! Cannot thank him enough!
Big Boards Catering handled food for a combined event at our house — my son's grad party and my other son's 21st birthday, all in one day. They nailed it. The buffet looked incredible, with gold chafing dishes, fresh greenery, and a little fountain centerpiece that had everyone asking who did our catering. The food was just as good as it looked. The meatball and cherry tomato dish disappeared fast, the pesto pasta and marinara penne were both great, and the pretzel bites and chicken skewers were a hit too. Everything stayed warm and got refilled without us having to flag anyone down, which made a big difference with two different crowds to feed. Juggling a grad party and a 21st birthday under one roof wasn't simple, but they made it look effortless. Would absolutely book them again.
Andy is the epitome of professionalism. He and his team at Big Boards truly specialize in making the experience stress-free and highly enjoyable for the host. If you want a caterer who serves gorgeous and delicious food and takes amazing care of you from start to finish, Andy is your guy!
We hired Andy to cater our daughter’s Baby Shower and he did an exceptional job. It was an “Amalfi Coast” themed event and the menu Andy developed was superb. Everything was delicious, the set up and staffing of the event was perfect. Highly recommend!
Andy and his crew catered our Halloween party and the set up was stunning and the food was incredible. All of our guests loved the food. We usually have left overs, but not this time! It was devoured. Will definitely hire them again and have recommended them to all of our family and friends.
We were truly blessed to have Big Boards Catering provide a meal for our entertainment team and crew on the day of our show at the House of Blues Orlando. Andy and his team not only delivered exactly what was promised, but went above and beyond with their guidance, professionalism, and attention to detail. They understood our group’s needs perfectly, and the food presentation was outstanding—absolutely fitting for the setting and occasion. Everything was handled with excellence. As a former member of the Country Music Association, Gospel Music Association, and the Recording Academy (Grammys), I can confidently say I highly recommend this local business for any catering needs. You will not be disappointed.
When we first talked with Andy about catering our wedding, which was at a unique venue; a nature center in the woods, what sold us was his immediate enthusiasm. He and his team were wonderful. His diligence to make sure we were happy with everything was impressive. He even asked us to come visit the kitchen a few months before the wedding to sample some items before we committed to hiring him as our caterer, even had us try a few items we hadn't asked about having on the menu before hand. Himself and his team were incredible at the wedding. For my next event I know who I'm hiring to cater, it'll be Andy from Big boards.
Outstanding food and service!!! We used Andy and his team for my daughter’s high school graduation party, and they absolutely exceeded every expectation. The food was incredible, the presentation was beautiful, and the entire staff was professional, friendly, and attentive from start to finish. Andy made the planning process so easy and stress-free, and he truly helped make the party so memorable. Highly recommend for any special event!!
I attended a party that Big Boards did the catering for, the food was amazing! The cheese grits were awesome, best cheese grits I've ever eaten. All the food was amazing, but the chicken biscuits were a special standout!
They are catering my niece’s graduation party. The food is the best and so is the staff!!!
Excellent selection of appetizers. Loved the crabcakes. Great service, constant staff circulation.
Big Boards Catering absolutely delivered one of the best private chef dining experiences we’ve had. Chef Andy Raphael and his team, Erica and Judy, created a restaurant-quality chef’s tasting experience right in our friend’s home with flawless execution, incredible presentation, and genuinely warm hospitality from start to finish. Every course stood out. The shrimp ceviche with avocado was bright and refreshing, the lollipop lamb chops with Yukon mash were perfectly cooked and packed with flavor, and the lobster skewers with seafood boil sauce were unforgettable. The sous vide tomahawk steak finished over fire with chimichurri was a true showstopper, perfectly rare with an amazing charred and smoky finish. The Mediterranean shrimp and cheese grits and the beef tenderloin with multicolored carrots in pan sauce were both rich, balanced, and beautifully plated. Luxurious! They ended the night with lovely chocolate cannolis finished with salted caramel drizzle. Beyond the food, the service was superb. Chef Andy, Erica, and Judy were professional, attentive, organized, and made the entire evening feel elevated but comfortable at the same time. This was easily food worthy of a high-end chef’s tasting menu experience. Highly recommend Big Boards Catering for private dinners, special occasions, or anyone looking to seriously impress their guests.
Shrimp and grits were absolutely delicious We also had a tomahawk steak cooked Perfectly. Everything tasted great and very friendly staff
Absolutely incredible dinner catered by BIG BOARDS CATERING. From the fresh ceviche and chili oil lobster to the perfectly cooked tomahawk steak, shrimp & grits, and beef tenderloin with carrots — every course was outstanding. And the chocolate cannolis were the perfect ending. Not only was the food amazing, but the team was professional, personable, and incredibly tidy throughout the entire evening. Such a great experience from start to finish. Highly recommend 🙏
Amazing! Outstanding! Delicious! From seafood to lamb to steak…cannot be BEAT!!!
Incredible service, Andy and his team gave our dinner party winning dishes one after another. Would highly recommend.
SO GOOD!!! Always such a pleasure seeing this team at an event & the food never ever disappoints!
Matthew's Hope used Big Boards for our Fall Fundraiser event, and they absolutely knocked it out of the park! The presentation was stunning, the selection was incredible, and our guests couldn't stop talking about how amazing the spread looked and tasted. From planning to delivery, the team was professional, reliable, and a joy to work with. They helped make our event a massive success, and we will definitely be using them again. Highly recommend!
Search no more. Big boards is the one! Amazing, delicious And Beautiful catering. Thank you Andy and team!
BBC did an amazing job providing the food for our cocktail hour at our December 2024 wedding at Sterling Events Venue in Minneola. There was such a great variety of options for everyone to enjoy, and everything was displayed so beautifully. Our guests absolutely loved it! I would highly recommend them for any catering event.
We’ve had Andy and his team support multiple events, and they consistently exceed expectations every single time. The food is outstanding both in quality and presentation, and the staff is professional, attentive, and genuinely committed to creating a great experience. What truly sets them apart is their flexibility and partnership. They work closely with us on menu selection, timing, and overall event flow, making everything seamless and stress-free. I would highly recommend Andy for any event whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large-scale function. They deliver excellence across the board.
Working with Andy to plan our Derby party was delightful. He really listened and delivered on our vision. The set up, take down and service during the party left nothing for us to do but enjoy our party! Thank you Andy and team!
Thank you to Andy and Teresa Raphael at Big Board Catering and My Favorite Tutor! We are so grateful for your generous donation of a Taco Bar for Foundation Academy Teacher Appreciation luncheon!
Went to a Kentucky Derby party they catered. Food was excellent and staff was great. Highly recommend them.
Attended a Derby Party and the food was a highlight! Everything was delicious and there was a wide variety of items to choose from. Would definitely recommend for your next event party!
Andy and the team at Big Boards Catering is the best. Ate some of the most delicious food at a catered event in Winter Garden recently and I was blown away. Everything was extremely well-seasoned, juicy and tender proteins, and staff was very kind/professional. Was so impressed I'm having them do wedding catering for me later this year! I love this team and their food; you will too 😉
Andy is a culinary genius, creating the most savory, mouthwatering dishes. His personality is magnetic and his attention to detail is impeccable! With Andy, you can enjoy the parties you host!!!
Andy did an absolutely amazing job with planning our Family party! It was such a good feeling to enjoy the Party rather than worry about details of serving! Andy will be cherished as “Must Have” to all my events!! 🎸⭐️
Our meeting was catered by Big Boards and the food was delicious, and thats saying something because im pretty picky. Great work and they are so friendly!
We had Andy from Big Boards Catering serve our networking event. Great food and service. I highly recommend them for any event!
What an amazing experience! Great service, the food was delicious, top quality and presentation was flawless. I highly recomend Big Boards for any event you need catering.
We were trying to decide on food for a large event but we’re worried about clean up. Andy was very quick to respond and suggested a perfect solution. I have his food at a number of events and it’s always delicious.
Really amazing food. And, the company culture is beautiful. Love the food and the team. Andy was so kind to come to my home and quote the event. He even brought samples!! Excellent communication. Shrimp/Grits/Brisket/Mac and cheese. Everything was amazing.
I love the deliciousness of his food, the service and presentation of big boards catering. I don’t have time to make lavish meals for my parties and Chef Andy always surpasses my expectations. I highly recommend you book them asap. Make your people happy through good food. You won’t regret it.
Andy and Big Boards Catering makes some delicious food! Sometimes with catering and making mass qualities, quality can be lost and that’s not the case with Big Boards. I would highly recommend them for any event! They are the best.
Excellent savory food made with care. If you want someone who cares to cater your special event, call Andy. Best food and catering in orlando! Anything from formal events to bussiness meetings and a delicious bite, Big Boards Catering is amazing!
Being from Virginia I know pulled pork and big board catering provided me with truly authentic Virginian( North Carolina..lol) pulled pork.. tasty without being dried out.. delicious
Great tasting food and excellent service is what you will get when you hire Big Boards Catering
Wow thank you! They showed up and made it easy to feed our group of 50. The food was fresh and delicious.
I am so grateful for Andy and Big Board Charcuterie. I call Andy “Mr. Clutch” because when a caterer had to back out at the last minute, I reached out to Big Board Charcuterie and not only did they come to the rescue, but they were simply amazing. The food, the professionalism of the staff, their set up, all of it was top tier. Since that day, I have used Big Board Charcuterie for many events and they continue to impress me. I would definitely recommend Big Board Charcuterie.
The displays are always impressive and the flavors are always there to back up the presentations.
Andy and his team always deliver fabulous food and over the top customer service! We had Big Boards do our daughter’s engagement party back in April of 2022 at the Oakland Park Town Hall. Andy listened to our needs and requests and created a wonderful smorgasbord for our guests! He is definitely a top recommendation when anyone asks for a catering team to make their event a success!
Andy and his team at Big Boards Catering has blessed many of our events with his creativity and ability to theme food, decor and fun. The food is always the best and presentation is amazing. His team is professional and always ready to help and serve. I would highly recommend them for any and every event.
All the wow without any worry. The team is always superb-delivers exceptional service, amazing food and no hassle set up and clean up. They have made our family celebrations next level (weddings, birthdays and services). When we we need an event catered-they are always my first choice. They have become family.
Andy at Big Boards is the best catering service in Clermont and all of Lake County, FL. My team visited the area for a Christmas party in December and I couldn’t believe how delicious the food was. I asked Billy Harper of Empowered Electrical “Who made all of this? This is some of the best food I’ve ever had” he let me know it was Andy and his team. We love Andy so much that he’s flying out to us and catering for my brother and sister-in-law in August. If you’re looking for a white glove service from a world class team, it makes zero sense to go anywhere else. Andy and the Big Boards team will provide a magical experience. 10/10!! 🇺🇸🔥
Big Boards Catering made my niece’s bridal shower absolutely unforgettable! Andy and his crew were phenomenal from start to finish. The attention to detail was incredible, and Andy was such a great communicator throughout the entire process—he truly overdelivered and exceeded all of my expectations. The food was outstanding. The deviled eggs were a huge hit, and the shrimp and grits were hands down the best we’ve ever had & everyone is still talking about them! Everything was beautifully presented and perfectly executed. I’m so grateful for the experience and will definitely be working with Andy again in the future. Highly, highly recommend! Photos to come!
Working with Big Boards Catering is always an excellent experience, the food is incredible and the service is top tier! We’ll always recommend them.
Big Boards has the most beautiful presentations of savory cuisine ! They cater from small groups to large reunions! We have gone to several events from Breakfasts to dinners. Big Boards is always professional with a variety of dishes that are so delicious! They have great team work and are a special addition to every event !
Andy and his crew absolutely knocked it out of the park catering my cousin’s bridal shower at our home. From start to finish, everything was seamless. The food was exceptional—beautifully presented and even better tasting (guests are still talking about it). Every detail felt thoughtful and elevated the entire event. The service was just as impressive. Andy and his team were professional, attentive, and made everything feel effortless on our end. They truly went above and beyond to make sure everything ran smoothly so we could actually enjoy the day. I would recommend Andy to anyone without hesitation and will definitely be using him again for future events. Five stars all the way!
I just have to say—Andy absolutely knocked it out of the park. The food was incredible from start to finish, but the shrimp and grits were on another level. Hands down the best shrimp I’ve ever had—perfectly cooked, flavorful, and just melt-in-your-mouth good. You can tell a lot of care and skill went into every bite. I’ll definitely be coming back and recommending this to everyone I know!
Such a great catering company! If you want class paired with absolutely delicious food, this is the one. Everything was beautifully done and tasted even better than it looked!!
Food was delicious, the set up was beautiful, and the staff was incredible!! 🙂
The presentation was incredible, the food was absolutely amazing. But the staff was by far the best part! I highly recommend!
Shrimp and grits were incredible!! The service is amazing. I’ve never been unsatisfied.!! We have hired Andy three times now and every time it’s absolutely perfect!! High quality and definitely recommend them!
We used Big Boards for our wedding shower in Winter Garden this past August, and they were fantastic! The food was delicious, especially the charcuterie board and cannolis 😉, which were a huge hit with our guests. The display was beautifully set up, and everything was handled so professionally. They truly made the day special. Highly recommend!
Big Boards Catering made celebrating my special event an enchanting evening, and my guest are still raving about the food and excellent service.
We highly recommend Andy and his team for any event. We were fortunate enough to have him cater our wedding last October in Howie in The Hills. The food we chose was amazing: Entrees *Pulled pork and Mac and cheese *Chili Glazed Meatballs with Yukon gold mash potatoes Sides *green beans with almonds *Chili Rice and Beans We plan on using him for our other events and can’t recommend Big Boards Catering enough.
Have attended several events where Big Boards Catering provided the food. It's always been excellent food and excellent service! I've been impressed with their attention to detail in how they set up and display the food as well as break down and clean up!
Andy and his team are awesome! I will use Big Boards again in a heartbeat. My guests were so impressed with not only the presentation but the food itself was outstanding! Big Boards Catering is an absolute must use ... again and again!
We have used big boards several times as well as been at events they have catered. Everything is always wonderful. We highly recommend them!
We’ve used Andy and staff for about 3 events and they have been amazing. Food has been delicious and when accompanied with their amazing service, they are perfect for any event!
Big Boards Catering never disappoints! The food is always absolutely amazing and the teams smiles are an added bonus. Fresh, flavorful, and a hit no matter the size of the gathering. I have attended small get-togethers and some large events they catered and they consistently deliver quality and professionalism. What truly sets them apart is the heart behind the business. Andy is incredibly kind and generous, not only to his clients, but also to his team. My daughter works for him, and it means so much knowing she’s part of a company that genuinely cares about its employees. If you’re looking for catering that goes above and beyond, Big Boards Catering is the way to go!
Shrimp and grits to die for! Highlight recommend! Great service and delicious foods for parties and family gatherings
Amazing! Perfect beautiful amazing services I love them so much! The food is so good!!
Thank you to the Big Boards Catering Team for the community support by sponsoring Windermere Wine & Dine (multiple years and in very cold temperatures outdoors with smiles on their faces), Matthew's Hope catered fundraising evening, and so many local charities. Beyond your Team's generous hearts and great attitudes, the food that you gifted was delicious, creative, and "Pinteresting." Your company has created jobs and opportunities for so many people, including former students of mine that I taught during their high school years. I am honored to recommend Big Boards Catering to my clients and friends without hesitation because I know that consistently they show up and bring the wow-factor as well as caring for their employees. You are ambassadors of the very best in event/wedding catering industry for professional standards - both in food and business practices. Bless you for all that you do here in Central Florida for our community ❤️🧑🍳☕️✅️
The BEST catering company in the Orlando area. Food is amazing and full of flavor. The staff is kind and will take amazing care of you for your event. If you want great service and amazing food you don’t need to look any further. Go ahead and book Big Boards Catering.
Goodbye party for ED. Wonderful variety and amount of food for staff party (Feb 2026). Everyone was raving about the food.
Andy and his team put together an amazing menu for my son's Wedding Rehersal dinner at our home. What made it even better was we did it all in under 2 weeks! Andy reassured me it would all be perfect and it absolutely was! The food was delicious and his team did all the work...including the clean up!!
Wow!! Thats really the best way to describe Big Boards!! They have catered many events for one of the non profits I am a part of as well as multiple events around central Florida that we have attended....They knock it out of the park everytime!! They are extremely prompt, professional, and the owners go above and beyond for each client!! Small dinner party at home call them!! Office party for 50 people call them! Big corporate event for 300 people and food allergies CALL them!! I cannot reccomend Andy and his crew enough!!!
Delicious food and amazing elevated experience. Owners are extremely personable and always engaging at events. Definitely next level for catering.
Big Boards has been a go-to for my husband and me from Day 1, and we will continue to have them cater our yearly New Years Day event (wouldn't consider any other caterer....ever!). Andy and his team always go the extra mile and bring our events to another level. We have never been disappointed in the quality of the food and service we receive, and we so appreciate the way Big Boards brings that WOW factor! Highly recommend!!!
Every year my husband and I host a Christmas party for our staff of about 75-100 people. Big Boards has been catering this event for the last 4 years. They are always a joy to work with and food is always consistent and DELICIOUS. You must try their deviled eggs! We plan to continue to use their services for our Christmas party and any other events that come up.
I’ve used Big Boards Catering for several events, and they’ve been exceptional every time. They always arrive with a positive attitude, serve delicious food, and truly go above and beyond to ensure everything aligns perfectly with your event’s theme. Last December, our downtown Orlando office building turned 100 years old. They planned a “100-Year Old Christmas” party for me, and it was outstanding. They exceeded all expectations. If you’re looking for someone to handle your event, Andy and his team are a fantastic choice. They absolutely will not disappoint.
Andy and his team were phenomenal for our wedding this past January at Villa Festa in Deland FL. The food was amazing and the presentation was stunning. Andy’s attention to detail is second to none. Highly recommend for any event!
Big Boards Catering is incredible! Great Service, Incredible Food, Highest Communication Ever! Total knowledge, diverse menu and flexible with all options, All around 5x5 stars! Thank you Andy and Teresa!
Big Boards has the best food catered to your preference and service is excellent. Will be using them at our next event
We have had Andy cater three events and he is a genuinely good person with great food and service! Highly recommend!
I’ve had Big Boards Catering multiple times through our BNI group, and it’s something I genuinely look forward to. You can tell he really cares because everything is always fresh, creative, and put together with intention. It’s never your typical boring spread. Highly recommend.
I’ve have several great experiences working with Big Board Catering. The professionalism, creativity, and fun they bring to every function is unmatched! Looking forward to next time!
Locations We Offer Private Chef in Central Florida
Big Boards Catering cooks private chef dinners in homes, vacation rentals, and private venues across Central Florida, from Clermont and Minneola to Orlando, Winter Park, and Lake Mary. Browse our locations directory to confirm private chef coverage for your dinner in your specific city.
- Altamonte Springs
- Apopka
- Baldwin Park
- Casselberry
- Celebration
- Clermont
- Dr. Phillips
- Fairview Shores
- Fern Park
- Forest City
- Gotha
- Groveland
- Horizon West
- Kissimmee
- Lake Mary
- Lockhart
- Longwood
- Maitland
- Mascotte
- Minneola
- Ocoee
- Orlando
- Pine Hills
- Plymouth
- Wekiwa Springs
- Windemere
- Winter Garden
- Winter Park
Our FUll List of Catering Services
A private chef dinner suits intimate gatherings, while larger events often call for buffet catering, a grazing table, or party catering instead. Visit our full services directory to see every catering option we offer across Central Florida.
- Anniversary Private Chef
- Baby Shower Catering
- Bachelorette Catering
- BBQ Catering
- Bridal Shower Catering
- Brunch Catering
- Buffet Catering
- Corporate Catering
- Dessert Catering
- Engagement Party Catering
- Girls Trip Catering
- Grazing Table
- Holiday Catering
- Party Catering
- Private Chef
- Quinceañera Catering
- Rehearsal Dinner Catering
- Sandwich Catering
- Sweet 16 Catering
- Taco Catering
- Vacation Private Chef Catering
- Wedding Catering
working with us
our Delicious Food
YEars Experience
Client Satisfaction
Menu Options
Events Catered
Private Chef in Clermont
A private chef dinner is a restaurant quality meal served in the comfort of your own home. Chef Andy Raphael arrives with the ingredients, prepares each course in your kitchen, and plates every dish fresh. The menu is built around you, so the meal feels personal from the first bite. Guests stay seated and relaxed while the chef handles every detail. Each course comes out at its peak, since the cooking happens on site rather than in transit. The experience blends fine dining with the ease of being at home. We adapt the pacing to your evening, from a quick weeknight dinner to a long, leisurely meal. The result is a personal dining experience you do not have to leave home to enjoy.
A private chef fits the occasions that deserve something special. Date nights become memorable when a chef handles the cooking and the cleanup. Anniversaries call for a refined, multi course meal without a crowded restaurant. Small dinner parties feel effortless when the host can sit and enjoy the table. Birthdays and milestone celebrations gain a personal, elevated touch. Holiday dinners run smoothly with a chef managing the kitchen. We can plan a romantic dinner for two or an intimate gathering for a dozen. Whatever the reason, the evening centers on the food and the company.
The menu is where a private chef dinner shines, and we build it around premium plates. Tomahawk Steak and Beef Tenderloin with Rosemary Garlic & Shallots anchor a hearty, refined dinner. Lobster Tails, King Crab Legs, and Salmon in Pesto Sauce bring an elegant seafood course. Lamb Chops and Romanian Skirt Steak with Rosemary Garlic & Shallots add bold, rich options. We can open with Colossal Shrimp Ceviche, Norwegian Smoked Salmon, or a refined crostini course. Sides like Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes and a Strawberry Burrata Salad round out the plate. We finish with desserts such as Mini Cannolis, French Macarons, or Individual Cheesecake Bites. We tailor each course to your taste, so the menu feels made for you.
Clermont sits at the center of our work, and our private chef service travels well beyond the city. We cook dinners in Groveland, Minneola, and Mascotte for couples and small gatherings. Hosts in Orlando, Dr. Phillips, and Windermere book us for anniversaries and dinner parties. We bring service north to Lake Mary, Longwood, Maitland, and Winter Park for intimate celebrations. To the west, Winter Garden, Ocoee, and Apopka fall within our regular range. We also serve Celebration and Kissimmee near the theme park corridor, including vacation rentals. Each home receives the same prep discipline, the same on time arrival, and the same clean kitchen at the end. If your home sits in our service area, we plan the menu, the shopping, and the timing around it well ahead of the date.
A private chef menu is the most customizable service we offer. We build the meal around your preferences, your allergies, and your favorite flavors. Vegetarian, gluten conscious, and pescatarian menus are easy to design from the start. We track nut, dairy, and shellfish allergies with care to reduce cross contact in your kitchen. We can plan a lighter, health conscious menu or a rich, indulgent one. Guests who avoid pork can choose from beef, chicken, lamb, and seafood courses. We can discuss halal style preferences during planning. Flexibility never comes at the cost of food safety or quality, because both stay non negotiable in our kitchen.
A great private dinner runs on planning, and we start with a conversation. Chef Andy Raphael walks you through course ideas, flavors, and timing during a free planning session. We confirm your kitchen setup, your equipment, and your space before the date. We discuss the occasion, the mood, and any details that make the night special. We handle the grocery shopping so you do not lift a finger. We coordinate the timing so each course lands when you are ready for it. Pricing stays transparent and itemized, so you always know what each dollar covers. That honesty is core to how Big Boards Catering runs, and it builds the trust clients count on.
Service quality shows up in the details, and a private chef dinner is built on them. We shop for fresh, quality ingredients ahead of your dinner. We arrive on time, set up in your kitchen, and prepare each course from scratch. We plate every dish with care, so the presentation matches the flavor. We serve at your pace, course by course, throughout the evening. We clean the kitchen as we go, so you are not left with a mess. By the end of the night, the space looks the way we found it. You finish the evening relaxed, which is the entire point of hiring a private chef.
CLEAR COMMUNICATION
We believe successful catering starts with strong communication. Our team stays responsive throughout the planning process so expectations, timing, and event details stay organized.
FULL SERVICE CATERING
Our team handles setup, serving, coordination, and cleanup so you can focus on your guests instead of managing event logistics. Big Boards Catering delivers smooth, professional service from start to finish.
CUSTOM EVENT MENUS
Every event is different, which is why Big Boards Catering creates menus tailored to your guest count, event style, and food preferences. We help build a catering experience that feels organized and memorable.
Commonly Asked Private Chef Questions
A private chef service brings a custom, multi course meal and full kitchen cleanup right to your home. The questions below cover what Clermont clients ask us most before they book a private chef.
Private chef cost depends on your guest count, the menu, and the number of courses. In Central Florida, private chef dinners often range from roughly seventy five to one hundred fifty dollars per guest. A simple two or three course menu sits at the lower end of that range. Premium ingredients like steak, lobster, and crab push the price higher. The cost usually includes shopping, cooking, plating, and cleanup. Travel and the size of the menu can add to the base price. Big Boards Catering gives you an itemized estimate so the math stays clear. You never face hidden fees when you book with us.
The menu is the biggest cost driver for a private chef dinner. More courses and premium proteins raise the per guest total. A focused menu with a few standout dishes keeps the cost in check. Seasonal ingredients can lower the price without lowering the quality. We help you balance the experience you want against a real number. Trimming one luxury item often frees room for another favorite. The convenience of dining at home is built into the value. We stay transparent about where each dollar goes.
Guest count affects the total in a few ways. More guests mean more food, more prep, and more plating. A smaller dinner can feel more personal and refined. A larger group can sometimes lower the per guest price. The occasion and the level of service also shape the cost. We walk you through these factors during your free planning session. Every estimate reflects your exact menu and headcount. Call us and we will price your specific private dinner down to the line.
A private chef service covers the full meal from start to finish. It begins with a custom menu built around your tastes and occasion. Chef Andy Raphael handles the grocery shopping for fresh ingredients. He arrives at your home and prepares each course in your kitchen. He plates every dish with care and serves it at your pace. The service includes full cleanup of the kitchen and dining area. You enjoy a restaurant quality meal without leaving your home. The experience is designed to be effortless for the host.
The menu is the heart of the service, and it is fully customized. We plan courses around your favorite flavors and any dietary needs. We can build a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a dinner party spread. Appetizers, mains, sides, and desserts all come from your chosen menu. We pair dishes so the courses flow naturally through the evening. We adjust the pacing to match the mood you want. The result feels personal rather than packaged. Every detail is planned around your evening.
Beyond the food, the service is about the experience. The host stays seated and relaxed while the chef works. Guests enjoy fresh courses served right from the kitchen. There is no cooking, serving, or cleanup left for you. The kitchen is left clean and tidy at the end of the night. The whole evening centers on the table and the company. We bring the polish of fine dining into your own home. Tell us your vision and we will build the experience around it.
Hiring a private chef starts with a quick call or an online booking. We talk through your occasion, your guest count, and your preferred date. Chef Andy Raphael helps you design a custom menu during a free planning session. We confirm your kitchen setup, your equipment, and your space. You approve the menu and an itemized estimate. A deposit holds your date on our calendar. We confirm the final details a few days before the dinner. On the night, the chef arrives, cooks, serves, and cleans up.
The planning conversation shapes the entire experience. We ask about flavors you love and ingredients you avoid. We discuss the mood, from romantic and quiet to lively and social. We plan the number of courses around your guests and the occasion. We handle the shopping, so you have nothing to buy. We coordinate the timing so each course lands at the right moment. The more we know, the more personal the meal becomes. Every dinner is built from the ground up around you.
On the day of the dinner, the chef manages everything. He arrives early to set up and prep in your kitchen. He cooks each course fresh rather than reheating prepared food. He plates and serves at the pace you prefer. He cleans as he goes, so the kitchen stays tidy. You and your guests simply enjoy the meal. By the end of the night, the space is left clean. Tell us your date and we will walk you through the rest.
For private chef service, Chef Andy Raphael cooks fresh in your home. He arrives with the ingredients and prepares each course in your kitchen. Cooking on site means every dish arrives at its peak. Nothing sits in transit or gets reheated for service. The aromas and the freshness become part of the experience. He works around your kitchen setup and equipment. He plates each course right before it reaches the table. This is what sets a private chef apart from drop off catering.
Some prep happens before the chef arrives to save time. Certain components can be readied in advance for a smooth service. The main cooking and plating still happen in your kitchen. This balance keeps the meal fresh while respecting your schedule. We confirm what your kitchen can handle during planning. A standard home kitchen is usually all we need. We bring any specialty tools the menu requires. The goal is a seamless, fresh dining experience.
For larger gatherings, we may suggest a different service style. Buffet or station catering can suit a bigger crowd better. A private chef shines for intimate, multi course dinners. We help you choose the format that fits your event. Cooking on site is the core of the private chef experience. It is what makes the meal feel personal and special. We plan the menu around what cooks best fresh. Tell us your space and we will confirm the right approach.
A private chef dinner works best for intimate groups. We typically serve dinners for two to twelve guests. Smaller dinners allow for more courses and finer plating. A dinner for two suits a date night or anniversary. A group of eight to twelve fits a dinner party beautifully. The experience stays personal at this scale. We adjust the menu and pacing to the size of the group. We help you find the right headcount for the occasion.
Larger groups are possible with the right planning. For a bigger crowd, we may add support staff. We can also suggest a buffet or station style instead. The private chef format favors a plated, course by course meal. Plating for very large groups changes the timing and pacing. We are honest about what keeps the experience at its best. We match the service style to your guest count. The goal is a meal that feels personal at any size.
The number of courses scales with the group and the occasion. A small dinner can stretch to many refined courses. A larger dinner often works best with a focused menu. We balance variety against smooth service. We plan the timing so courses arrive without long gaps. We confirm the headcount before we finalize the menu. A clear count keeps the meal flowing all evening. Tell us your guest list and we will design around it.
Yes, a private chef is the easiest way to handle dietary restrictions. The entire menu is built around your needs from the start. We track nut, dairy, and shellfish allergies with care. Vegetarian, gluten conscious, and pescatarian menus are simple to design. We prep allergy aware courses to reduce cross contact in your kitchen. Guests who avoid pork can choose beef, chicken, lamb, and seafood. We confirm every guest’s needs before the dinner. No guest is treated as an afterthought at the table.
Food safety guides every step of the cooking process. We follow safe handling practices in your kitchen. Allergen ingredients get separated and clearly managed. We can build a fully separate course for a guest with severe needs. The chef knows exactly which dishes carry common allergens. Communication with you keeps the plan accurate. We confirm the final dietary details before the dinner. Careful prep protects your guests and your peace of mind.
A private chef menu flexes to any preference. We can plan a light, health conscious dinner or a rich, indulgent one. We can discuss halal style preferences during planning. Plant based courses are available for vegetarian and vegan guests. We can spotlight a guest’s favorite flavors throughout the meal. We treat each request as part of the core menu, not an add on. Flexibility is one reason clients love the private chef experience. Tell us your guests’ needs and we will build around them.
A private chef suits any occasion that calls for something personal. Date nights feel special when a chef handles the meal. Anniversaries gain a refined, intimate setting at home. Birthdays and milestones become memorable with a custom dinner. Small dinner parties run smoothly when the host can relax. Holiday meals are easier with a chef managing the kitchen. A proposal or celebration dinner gains a polished backdrop. The occasion sets the tone, and we build the menu to match.
Intimate gatherings are where a private chef shines. A quiet dinner for two centers the evening on connection. A small group dinner feels effortless and elegant. The host enjoys the night instead of working in the kitchen. Guests experience fresh, plated courses at home. The setting feels personal in a way a restaurant cannot match. We plan the pacing to fit the mood of the occasion. Every detail bends toward making the night memorable.
Special celebrations deserve a special meal. We can theme a menu around a guest of honor. We can plan a course inspired by a favorite cuisine. We coordinate the timing with toasts or key moments. We can add a dessert course to mark the occasion. We bring the polish of fine dining into your home. The experience stays relaxed because we handle the work. Tell us the occasion and we will design the right evening.
Most clients book a private chef two to four weeks before the dinner. Special occasions and peak weekends benefit from a longer lead time. Booking ahead gives you first pick of dates and full menu attention. It also leaves time to design a custom menu without rushing. Big Boards Catering can sometimes accommodate shorter notice. Last minute dinners depend on our calendar for that date. The sooner you reach out, the more flexibility you keep. Holiday dates fill quickly, so book those early.
Early planning protects the personal nature of the service. It gives time for the menu conversation and any adjustments. We use the lead window to source quality ingredients. Rushing the plan can limit the menu choices. A longer runway keeps the whole process calm. We hold your date once a deposit confirms the booking. We confirm final details a few days before the dinner. Chef Andy Raphael prefers ample time to plan a memorable meal.
Short timelines are not a dealbreaker, but they narrow your options. We can still plan a strong dinner in a few days when our schedule allows. A focused menu comes together faster than an elaborate one. We are honest about what is realistic for your date. If we cannot serve you well, we will say so up front. Reaching out early is always the safer choice. Popular dates should be booked as far ahead as possible. Contact us today to check availability for your dinner.
Get The Best Private Chef In Central Florida
Book your free private chef planning session and estimate today by calling Big Boards Catering at (954) 778-0456 or by booking online using our 24/7 appointment system.






