Reflections on the Private Chef Journey: Why I Built Epicurate

Why I started Epicurate

When I transitioned from the restaurant world to the private chef world, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What I found was a world that challenged me to grow creatively and connected me with fascinating people in incredible places. A world where I get to spend my days crafting extensive menus tailored to unique preferences, cooking for intimate gatherings in stunning luxury locations, and sometimes having a private plane sent to whisk you off for your next engagement. These experiences reminded me why I became a chef in the first place: to make people happy, one meal at a time.

But as thrilling as it was, I also encountered frustrations—specifically with platforms that made me feel like I was just another cog in their machine.

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Who Epicurate Is For

The other platforms I worked with took all the credit for my work. They didn’t help me build my brand or recognize the effort I put into creating memorable experiences. Every private chef knows that the magic of what we do isn’t in the booking system or the app—it’s in the moments we share with guests. It’s in the smiles after a perfect bite, the laughter over a perfectly timed joke while plating, and the stories exchanged around the table.

Experiences are the most personal way we create memories. They’re about the connection between the chef and the guest, not the platform that organized the booking. That’s why I created Epicurate—to empower chefs and other experience providers to own their craft and build their brands without sacrificing their independence.

Epicurate is designed to be the antithesis of those big platforms. Here, you’re not just another listing; you’re part of a community. We give you the tools to run your business your way while connecting you with clients who value personalized, high-end experiences.

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What Epicurate Does for Chefs

1. Empowering Independence: You’re in control. You set your rates, design your menus, and choose your clients. Epicurate is here to support your vision, not overshadow it.

2. Building Your Brand: With Epicurate, your name matters. You’re not just a nameless provider—we help you build a reputation as a trusted, sought-after chef.

3. Seamless Tools, Endless Opportunities: From streamlined bookings to itineraries, we provide everything you need to focus on what matters most: creating exceptional experiences.

4. A Community of Creators: At Epicurate, you’ll join a network of like-minded chefs and experience providers who share your passion for hospitality and craftsmanship.

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The Joy of Private Cooking

Private cooking is unlike anything else. You’re not bound by rigid menus or hurried dinner services. Instead, you craft personalized meals for people who appreciate every detail. One day, you might create a multi-course tasting menu for an intimate group in a seaside villa. The next, you’re preparing comfort food for a family gathering at a luxury retreat. Every day is different, but the connection is always meaningful.

When I reflect on these experiences, it’s the human element that stands out—the gratitude from guests, the shared stories, the feeling of being part of their special moments. That’s what makes this work fulfilling, and that’s what Epicurate is here to support.

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A Call to Join Us

If you’re a private chef or experience provider, you know how special this work can be. But you also know how frustrating it is to feel undervalued or overlooked. Epicurate exists to change that.

We’re here to give you the tools, the platform, and the freedom to build the career you’ve always dreamed of—without giving up your independence. Whether you’re creating bespoke menus, curating unforgettable experiences, or simply sharing your love of food, Epicurate is designed to amplify what makes your work unique.

If you’re ready to take control of your career, join us at Epicurate. Together, we’ll redefine what it means to provide luxury, personalized experiences—and we’ll do it on your terms.

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Warmly,

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Max Porterkhamsy
Founder, Epicurate
Advocate for Independent Creators and Memorable Experiences

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