The Family Holiday Essential
Why More Families Are Taking a Private Chef on Holiday
Hiring a private chef while travelling was once associated with large estates, corporate retreats, or special occasions.
Over the years, we’ve seen that changing. More families are choosing to travel with a private chef, whether they are spending a week in a villa in the South of France, gathering generations together in Cornwall.
The reason is simple: families increasingly value their time. They want flexibility, healthy food, and the opportunity to enjoy their holiday without worrying about shopping, cooking, or restaurant reservations.
At The Goodcook Co, we have spent more than two decades placing exceptional chefs with families around the world. We have seen first-hand how the right chef can transform a holiday experience.
Here are some of the reasons more families are choosing to take a private chef on holiday.
Time is Precious
One of the greatest luxuries today is time. Family holidays are often the rare occasions when everyone is in the same place at the same time. Children are back home from school, parents have time off work and grandparents may be joining. The focus shifts from daily commitments to the joy of being together.
Across the course of a week-long holiday, families can easily spend hours a day planning meals, shopping, cooking and clearing up. A private chef quietly removes those responsibilities.
From the moment you wake up, meals are planned and prepared around your family's schedule. Fresh breakfasts appear when you are ready. Lunch is waiting after a morning on the beach. Children's suppers are served before adults sit down for a more leisurely evening meal.
Restaurant-Quality Food in Peace and Comfort
Many families enjoy dining out while travelling. However, restaurants do not always suit the realities of family life. Children may be tired after a busy day and large groups can find reservations difficult. Advance planning also takes away the spontaneity and freedom of a family holiday.
A private chef brings the restaurant experience directly to you. Menus are designed around your preferences. Meals are served when you want them. There is no need to travel, wait for a table, or coordinate multiple bookings.
Your chef can prepare a relaxed family barbecue by the pool one evening and a beautifully presented multi-course dinner the next. Fresh local seafood, seasonal vegetables, exceptional meat, handmade desserts and carefully selected ingredients become part of everyday holiday life.
Many clients tell us that some of their favourite holiday meals have been those enjoyed at home, surrounded by family, with no distractions and no need to go anywhere.
The atmosphere is relaxed and tailored to you and your loved ones.
Dealing with Multiple Tastes
One of the challenges of travelling with family is accommodating different tastes and dietary requirements. Your youngest hates fish, your teenager is a vegetarian, and the grandparents are gluten-free.
A private chef plans every menu around the individuals they are cooking for. Before your holiday begins, we will put you in touch with your chef to discuss your preferences, allergies, dietary requirements and favourite dishes. Menus are then created specifically for your family.
A skilled private chef balances everyone’s requirements effortlessly.The result is that everyone enjoys their meals. There is no compromise and no need to choose restaurants based solely on who can accommodate the most requests.
Discover the Best Local Produce
Every destination has its own ingredients, traditions and culinary identity. From Mediterranean vegetables picked at peak season to freshly landed Caribbean seafood - local produce often defines a place.
A private chef helps you experience that destination through its food. Many of the chefs we place have extensive knowledge of local suppliers and food markets. They understand what is in season and where to find the very best ingredients. Rather than relying on tourist-focused menus and soulless supermarkets, you gain access to a more authentic experience.
They may introduce you to regional dishes and ingredients that you might never otherwise discover. The meals feel connected to the destination and you can enjoy the best produce available without spending your own holiday searching for it.
Why Families Choose The Good Cook Co
Since 1999, The Good Cook Co has specialised exclusively in placing exceptional private chefs with discerning clients. Founded by Caroline Yates, the business was built on a deep understanding of people and how private households work.
Over the years, we have placed chefs in Mediterranean villas, Caribbean islands, ski chalets, private Scottish estates and family homes around the world.
Many of our chefs have worked in leading restaurants and private residences. What unites them is their ability to deliver outstanding food alongside adaptability and professionalism. They know as well as we do that every family is different.
Our role is to understand your requirements and introduce chefs who are genuinely suited to your needs. We have a fully vetted network of chefs around the globe, so whether you need a private chef for a week in Greece, a Caribbean getaway, or a summer in Cornwall, we will have the right person for the job.
Planning Your Next Holiday?
If you are planning a holiday and would like to explore the possibility of having a private chef, our founder, Caroline Yates would be delighted to help you find the right chef for your family.