Full-service Events

Bring a Michelin-star experience to your Washington, DC home

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Pan Roasted Monkfish with King Trumpet Mushroom, Kuri Squash and Caldo of Spanish Black Truffle

Trusted by Industry Leaders

Trustes By Industry Leaders

Gradito

[ part. pass. di gradire ] /gra'dito/
welcome , appreciated , pleasant

Transform your home in DC into a Michelin-quality restaurant with Gradito, the easiest way to plan a seamless event. The most creative and talented chefs in Washington DC are at your doorstep for an unforgettable shared experience.

With access to trusted and talented chefs and sommeliers at your fingertips, we’re opening the door to delicious and exclusive experiences. Welcome to high-end dining at home. Welcome to Gradito.

Book an event

Hire the perfect chef For The Night

You
GraditoWeb SearchingThumbtack platformReferrals
Time spent searching for the right private chef online< 5 minutes4+ hours2 hours5+ hours
Chance for a successful eventHighVery LowVery LowAverage
Number of chefs you need to meet1more than 5more than 3more than 3
Have worked with chefs beforeYesNoNoNo
Direct network of Michelin-trained chefsYesRarelyRarelySometimes
Total number of hours< 4 hours20+ hours15+ hours10+ hours

What people say about us

What People Say

Chef Derick was amazing! Absolutely seamless from start to finish. If you’re looking for stress-free, in-home,  fine dining experience—Gradito is your new best friend.

Kim L.

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Michelin Star Chef serves a platter of strawberries to a woman sitting down

We had a fantastic experience with Sean and the team from Gradito. We hired them to serve a collection of small dishes for a party of 30. Communication was fast and easy as we worked through numerous iterations for the event and, most importantly, execution was flawless. The food was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend Gradito for your next event.

Glenn C.

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Customer taking a picture of a Michelin Star Chef's dish

I cannot recommend Gradito enough! We decided to work with Sean and Chef Will for our wedding as we wanted our guests to have a one of a kind dining experience that they will enjoy and remember. Our guests could not stop raving about the food and service for days after the wedding and jokingly kept asking if there were any leftovers they could come back for.

Mahsa N.

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Gradito staff holding a plate of appetizers

Sean and the Gradito team were so responsive and great from start to end. The entire team was a pleasure to work with and during our cocktail party, everyone was enthusiastic and made the night so special. The food was so delicious!

Puja M.

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Gradito staff plating a dish for customers

Gradito was so accommodating, ensuring every request for my 30th birthday was met. When it came to the dinner itself, each dish was more mind-blowing than the last. They made my event honestly one of the best days of my life - highly recommend!!

Taylor H.

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Happy customers making a toast with champaign

How to Hire a Washington, DC Private Chef Using the Gradito App

This is an icon used to describe the first step while using our Gradito app.

Select the time and location of your event, and answer a few questions about your tastes and preferences.

This is an icon associated with the second step of using the Gradito app.

We’ll match you with a highly-skilled chef based on your choices. Then, select from that chef's polished menus or create one together.

A wine bottle icon to represent the third basic option for using the Gradito app.

Add a sommelier and wine pairings to further elevate your personalized experience.

A chef's hat icon to represent the last element for using the Gradito app.

Your Gradito chef arrives before your event with all ingredients and cooking supplies, cleaning up afterwards to let you enjoy your evening.

Why gradito

Chef Spotlight

Chef
Steve

Chef Steve

Chef Steve is a seasoned culinary professional with a diverse background in both the private and restaurant sectors. A former Chef/Owner of acclaimed French restaurants in Baltimore, Chef Steve demonstrated his culinary prowess and leadership skills.Before venturing into restaurant ownership, Chef Steve excelled as a Private Chef from March 2011 to October 2013, serving clients in Los Angeles, New York, and Santa Barbara. He also gained valuable experience as a Private Chef for high-profile individuals in Beverly Hills, Palm Beach, New York, the Hamptons, and Malibu.Educated in 3* culinary arts in France, Chef Steve's passion and dedication were recognized with the Award of Kitchen in 1995 for being the Best Apprentice in the State of Champagne, Ardennes. He quickly followed this momentum, gaining spots and excelling in Frances's top kitchens, such as Michel del Burgo, Phillipe Brown, and Alain Dutournier.With a rich background in restaurant and private settings, Chef Steve continues to impress with his culinary creations, blending traditional techniques with Japanese flair.Steve loves cycling and spending time with his two sons.

Chef
Wing

Chef Wing

Chef Wing's culinary journey began amidst the flavors of Palawan in the Philippines, where he first wielded a ladle alongside his mother, crafting arroz caldo to support their community. This early immersion ignited a lifelong passion for cooking. In 2013, he set foot in the United States and embarked on a culinary career as a prep cook, reigniting his fervor for the culinary arts.Venturing through the kitchens of distinguished establishments, Wing honed his skills at renowned DC eateries such as Bibiana and Cusbah. His culinary prowess caught the attention of the culinary scene, leading him to the prestigious role of Chef de Cuisine at Maketto, a celebrated eatery under the guidance of Erik Bruner-Yang, earning a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition.Currently, Chef Wing channels his rich Filipino heritage into his culinary creations at Balangay, a revered pop-up in DC. Through Balangay, he showcases his distinctive culinary expression, offering a taste of his roots and a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of Filipino cuisine.

Chef
Palmer

Chef Palmer

Chef Palmer began his culinary journey at the age of 15 at The Shack in Strathmere. With six years of experience at Pub & Kitchen, including two years as the executive chef at the Diving Horse in Avalon, Palmer honed his skills in the restaurant industry. His expertise extends to catering, where he spent four years managing events of all sizes. Palmer holds a Masters in Food Sovereignty from the University of Gastronomic Science. Currently, he is a full-time food consultant. Outside work, he enjoys hunting and fishing, supporting Everton Football Club and Philadelphia sports teams, listening to economics podcasts, and cooking for his daughters and partner.

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Steamed Galician Turbot with Koshihikari Rice and Shoyu Beurre Blanc

An elegantly set table adorned with plates of meticulously prepared Turbot Sake Buerre Blanc.

Tartar of Iwashi, Cuttlefish and Gambas Rojas with Kimchi Sauce and Masa Madre Oil

Beautifully plated Iwashi dish

Montauk Squid a la plancha with Macadamia Nut Custard, Green Garlic and Thai Basil

Professionally plated squid dish
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Spotlight

Looking to organize a memorable, in-home private chef experience?

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We work with best-in-class private chefs.

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FAQ's

How much does it typically cost to hire a private chef in Washington DC?

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It costs upwards of $1000 to hire a chef in DC. The cost will vary based on the event size, menu complexity, and chef experience. We will provide an exact quote when booking.

Can I hire a private chef in Washington DC for corporate events or large gatherings?

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Absolutely! Our chefs are ready to handle any events, big or small. Host corporate galas or large receptions. You don’t need to be concerned with the guest list size.

Are private chefs in Washington DC available for holiday gatherings and festive dinners?

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Yes, they are! Our chefs will help you host everything from the Thanksgiving feast to the Lunar New Year celebration. Enjoy with your family while we run the kitchen.

Can I hire a private chef in Washington DC for a rooftop dinner or outdoor event?

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Yes, you can! Our chefs come prepared with the necessary equipment for al fresco dining. Enjoy a magical culinary experience under the stars with your loved ones.

Can I hire a private chef in Washington DC for a brunch or breakfast event?

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Absolutely! Our chefs can create anything from power breakfasts with locally sourced ingredients to leisurely, multi-course brunch experiences inspired by global cuisines. Sit back and enjoy a leisurely start to your day.

How far in advance should I book a private chef for an event in Washington DC?

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You should book for your event at least a few weeks in advance to avoid a rush. Book a month before large gatherings or holidays. It gives you time to plan the menu without rushing.

Can a private chef in Washington DC cater to vegan or plant-based diets?

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Yes, they can! Our chefs can work with you to create a delicious vegan or plant-based menu. They will make no compromises on the taste or presentation of the meal.

How do private chefs in Washington DC handle clean-up after an event?

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They handle it by cleaning the cooking area, doing the dishes, and disposing of waste responsibly after an event. They treat your kitchen with the highest regard.

Can private chefs in Washington DC cater to intimate gatherings in small apartments or limited spaces?

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Yes, they can! Our chef can provide high-end service for groups as small as two. They can bring a high-end dining experience even in limited spaces

How do private chefs in Washington DC ensure the highest level of food safety and hygiene during preparation?

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They do so by following rigorous hygiene practices. Our chefs have worked in kitchens that expect the highest standards from their staff. They bring those high-end food safety handling practices to your kitchen.

Gradito’s Washington DC Events and Services

No event is too small or big for our battle-hardened chefs. Throw an intimate dinner for your loved ones or a full-blown party. We will handle the kitchen while you kick back and relax. Here are some reasons to hire our services for your next DC event.

Private Dinner Parties

Gather your loved ones for a cozy dinner. Impress them with cuisines prepared by chefs of the highest caliber.

Wedding Receptions

Celebrate your union with a menu as unique as your love story. Our chefs can create custom dishes that reflect your tastes and heritage.

Cocktail Parties

Pair your favorite meals with exotic drinks. Our chefs work closely with trained sommeliers to make every meal an event.

Corporate Events

We deliver professional service and exquisite food to add sheen to your corporate events in DC.

Holiday Celebrations

Enjoy festive gatherings without the stress of cooking. Our chefs prepare holiday feasts that honor your traditions.

Full-Time Seasonal Chef

Hire a chef to manage your household’s culinary needs. You can enjoy delicious meals without the stress of kitchen duties.

Benefits of Choosing Gradito for Your Washington DC Private Chef

Our chefs make it easy for you to host large or small group events. They will craft unforgettable dining experiences that reflect the city's diverse culinary scene. You will experience high-end service akin to Michelin-level restaurants. Here are some reasons to use our trained chefs for your next DC event.

Personalized Culinary Experience

Our chefs design menus around your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy meals crafted specifically for your palate. Let us pamper you with your favorite cuisines.

Stress-Free Meal Planning and Preparation

Gradito handles the entire process, from menu planning to grocery shopping and meal preparation. You can relax and enjoy quality time with your guests without the stress of running the kitchen.

Attention to Detail

Our chefs leave nothing to chance. They keep a keen eye on ingredient selection, preparation, and plating. Expect a dining experience that delights all your senses.

Expert Knowledge and Skills

Our chefs bring a wealth of knowledge about regional specialties and global cuisines for a world-class dining experience. They have cultivated a deep understanding of flavor to bring you restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your own space.

Flexibility in Service

Host guests with different dietary preferences without worrying about accommodating their needs. Our chefs make everyone feel welcome. They can handle any event size and theme you can think of.

Diverse Cuisine Selection

Our chefs offer various cuisines in different cooking styles. We can satisfy your cravings for classic favorites or create an exciting menu.