An Unforgettable Evening: My First Private Chef Dinner Experience

By Chef Joel Head | Ahead Chef LLC

Some dinners aren’t just about food, they’re about stories, traditions, and creating moments people will remember. My first private chef dinner was one of those nights.

This wasn’t just any gig. One of my high school buddies reached out to celebrate his wife and sister-in-laws joint birthday, and I knew I had to make it special. Growing up, they had a family tradition: lobster dinners every year on their birthdays. When he asked me to bring that back, but elevated, modern, and unforgettable I built out a surf & turf lineup that would do it justice.

From the start, I wanted to create a night that felt like them... a little nostalgic, a little over-the-top, and completely dialed-in on flavor. We went all-in on big plates, bold flavors, and plenty of butter.

Every dish was designed to hit the right notes: upscale but not stuffy, polished but approachable, and plated so every course made an impression before the first bite.

The Menu

Appetizers

• Seared Scallops — Charred corn purée, crispy prosciutto, citrus-herb gremolata

• Potato Rösti with Paddlefish Caviar — Crème fraîche, micro chives

  
  

First Course

• Grilled Romaine Caesar — Parmesan crumble, anchovy essence, lemon zest

• Lobster Bisque — Butter-poached lobster, chive oil

• Cheddar Bay Biscuits — Sharp cheddar, garlic butter, fresh parsley

  
  

Main Course

• Filet & Lobster Surf & Turf

• Pomme purée with Brown Butter and Sage

• Charred broccolini & Roasted asparagus with a Creamy Tahini Sauce

  
  

Dessert

• Crème Brûlée — Caramelized sugar crust, fresh peaches & mint

  
  
  

  

  

  

  
  

Cooking has always been my way of connecting with family, friends, and now, new clients. This first private chef dinner marks the start of something special: bringing restaurant-quality dining into intimate spaces, where guests can relax, celebrate, and savor every bite.

Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration, a milestone birthday, or a luxury dinner party, I’d love to create something unforgettable for you.

Contact Me: Here

Follow along on Instagram: @headj_chef