What to Prepare Before a First Consultation

Walking into a first consultation about a private dinner or a Saturday cooking workshop feels different when you have a clear picture of what will happen. The chef asks about allergies, dietary habits, and how many people will sit at the table. Most guests arrive with a vague idea of "something seasonal" and leave the rest to us. That works, but a little preparation makes the conversation faster and the final menu closer to what you imagined.

Start with the practical details. How many guests are coming, and is the meal for a business lunch or a family celebration? The number changes portion sizes, the rhythm of service, and whether we suggest a set menu or a tasting format. If someone at the table avoids gluten, dairy, or shellfish, write it down before the call. We adapt the menu around those constraints rather than treating them as an afterthought.

Think about the atmosphere you want. A discreet business lunch in the vaulted room needs a different pace than a Saturday morning workshop where participants handle knives and peel vegetables. For the workshops, the only real preparation is wearing comfortable shoes and bringing an apron if you have one. We provide the produce, the tools, and the recipes. For a private dinner, consider whether you prefer a single long table or smaller rounds, and whether you want the chef to explain each plate or simply serve it.

Budget is the one topic people hesitate to raise. You do not need a precise number, but a range helps us propose a menu that fits. A three-course market menu with wine pairing costs more than a two-course lunch with a single glass. Knowing the range early means we can adjust the protein, the number of courses, or the wine list without compromising the quality of the produce.

Finally, bring your questions. Ask about the market suppliers, the seasonal vegetables available that week, or how we handle leftovers. The consultation is a two-way conversation, not a form to fill. The more specific your questions, the more useful the answers.

If you are still deciding whether a private dinner or a workshop suits your group, read about the different formats on our service format guide. And when you are ready to talk, book a consultation and we will take it from there.