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frequently asked questions.
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How can I book my event?We can discuss details over the phone, via text, or email - whichever is easiest for you! Click the button below to put in an inquiry and one of our reresentatives will be in contact with you soon. That's the first step!
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How far ahead do I need to book the event?As soon as you know - let us know! Planning ahead is great, but we will always try our best to accommodate your last minute needs! We request at least 14 days notice. Less than 10 days notice is considered a "last-minute" booking.
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When do you need to know the number of guests?When booking please inform us how many people you are expecting, we will need your final guest count 7 days prior to your event date
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Do you offer tastings?Absolutely! Tastings are perfect for clients who are undecided on which menu options they'd like to select. Starting at $100, we offer up to 3 menu selections for your and up to 3 guests. Tasting schedule: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm.
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How far will you travel?The majority of our customer base is in Philadelphia, PA, but we are traveling chefs and willing to go wherever you are. Our travel costs start at $25 up to 10 miles and are $1 per mile traveled after that. Travel costs to and from location will be included in your invoice. Did you know we offer Vacation Chef services as well? Schedule a call with our chef today!
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Do you have any children’s options?We offer a children’s menu with grilled chicken, mac and cheese, and seasoned green beans or broccoli with rice, for all children 10 and under. Ages 11 and up are served as adults. A detailed breakdown is only needed at the time of the final count, 2 weeks before the event.
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Do you require a deposit?Yes, a minimum $200 retainer fee is required in order for us to start planning for your event. A 50% minimum deposit (minus the retainer fee) is requested in order to secure your event date. We’re happy to create payment arrangements for large events and bookings 12+ months out, so please ask a member of our sales team if you’d like to discuss available options. For last-minute bookings, we will work out an arrangement to suit the situation.
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Are there vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-free options?"Yes, we have many options for vegetarians, vegans, or those with food sensitivities. Please let us know how many guests require an alternative option, and we will work with you on a menu custom to their dietary needs.
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Can I substitute items or change the menus?Yes! All of our menus are simply a base. We are willing to build on whatever ideas come to mind. We are very flexible in the flavor department.
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Can I just pick up the food?Many menu items are also available for Pick up or Delivery, packaged for easy client self-service – minimums apply.
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What about the leftovers?Leftover foods will be distributed at the discretion of Ideal Habits, LLC. We encourage clients to supply takeout containers for any remaining food. We do not provide containers for leftover food unless you ask us to. Ideal Habits, LLC is not responsible for any illness caused by leftover foods not kept at proper temperatures after your event ends.
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What if I need to make changes to the menu or guest count within 2 weeks?In order to move forward with event preparations, ordering, and staffing, we ask that all details are finalized 2 weeks prior to your event. We understand that things can arise in those final weeks of planning that were not previously anticipated and, with the exception of lowering your guest count, we generally are able to minor adjustments.
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What is your cancellation policy?60+ Days Prior to Date of Event: * Your retainer fee and 30% of your initial deposit is non-refundable * Plus: Any other real charges incurred by Ideal Habits, LLC on behalf of the client (i.e. Tasting Fees, Pre-Paid Rentals, Staffing, etc.) are non-refundable. * 3% Credit Card Processing Fees on any payments processed are non-refundable. Otherwise, all payments made to Ideal Habits, LLC are non-refundable and non-transferrable. Please communicate with us if you are skeptical about your booking date.
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What if I want to change my menu?No problem! Once you’ve secured your event date with a deposit, you’ll have the freedom to adjust your menu and services as desired until 2 weeks prior to your event date. There will be an additional charge each time our chef has to revise your invoice.
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What is your average price per person?Our average price per person will depend on many factors, such as the specific menu you choose, service style, staff needs, hours on-site, rentals, and set up, break down, etc. A private dinner for two starts at about $175 per person, while a self-serve buffet for 50 people may go for about $25-50 per person.
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Is there a minimum cost for services?Yes, we do require a $500 minimum for any service.
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Is gratuity included?No, we don't automatically charge a gratuity. We suggest an optional 20% gratuity for the servers, based on the size and type of event. Gratuity is always appreciated but never expected.
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Are there any fees in addition to the menu price?Yes. All of our pricing is dependent upon your desired Menu, Staff needs, Travel to and from your location, Equipment and Labor, Processing Fees, Sales Tax, aand anything else necessary to make your event happen.
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What is included in the Chef fee?When you see Chef Fee on your invoice that includes menu planning, grocery shopping trips, skilled labor, travel time, service equipment, thermal controlled equipment for transportation (coolers and Cambro hot boxes), etc.
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