FAQ

FAQ — Chef Qoya Cooks

Chef Qoya Cooks · Frequently Asked Questions

Your Questions, Answered

Everything you need to know before booking your experience with Chef Qoya.

Booking & Reservations

How do I book QoyaCooks for my event?

To begin the booking process, please complete our inquiry form on the website with your event details, including guest count, location, and preferred service style. Once received, a member of our team will review your request and follow up to confirm availability and provide a proposal or invoice.

When is my event officially secured?

Your event date is confirmed once a signed contract and retainer payment have been received. Dates are not held without payment.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking 2–4 weeks in advance to ensure availability. Events booked within two weeks of the event date are considered late bookings and may be subject to limited availability.

Do you accept last-minute bookings?

Last-minute bookings may be accommodated depending on availability. In these cases, full payment may be required to secure the date.

Pricing & Payments

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What is your minimum booking requirement?

Minimums vary depending on the service type, guest count, and event location. All QoyaCooks experiences begin at a $1,500 minimum investment.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes. A 30% non-refundable retainer is required to secure your event date. The remaining balance is typically due 14 days prior to the event.

Do you offer payment plans?

Payment plans may be available for certain bookings as long as the full balance is paid by the final due date.

Do you offer discounts?

Our pricing reflects the quality of ingredients, preparation, staffing, and the luxury experience we provide. Because of this, pricing is not negotiable. However, we are happy to recommend menu or service adjustments that align with your event needs.

Event Service & Logistics

What time does the chef team arrive?

Our team typically arrives 2–3 hours prior to the scheduled dining window to prepare food, cook, and complete setup.

How long is the dining window?

Your dining window is based on guest count — up to 25 guests receive a 1-hour window, 26–40 guests receive 1.5 hours, and groups of 41 or more receive a 2-hour window. Your confirmed dining window will be outlined in your proposal and contract.

What happens if guests arrive late?

Service will proceed according to the scheduled dining window. If additional service time is needed, extensions may be requested and are subject to additional fees and team availability.

Can the dining window be extended?

Yes. When available, additional service time may be added at $50 per additional 30 minutes.

Can guests enter the kitchen while the chef team is working?

For safety and efficiency, we kindly ask that guests do not enter the kitchen or preparation area while our team is working.

Service Areas & Travel

What areas do you service?

QoyaCooks primarily services the DMV area — Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Do you travel for events outside the DMV?

Yes. Travel outside our primary service area may require travel fees and accommodations depending on distance and event logistics.

Cancellations & Policies

What is your cancellation policy?

All retainers are non-refundable, as they secure your event date and require preparation, staffing, and scheduling. Please review our full Booking Policies page for complete details.

What happens if my guest count changes?

Final guest counts must be confirmed before the final payment deadline. Additional guests may result in additional charges.

Still have questions? Submit an inquiry through our website and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.

We look forward to creating a beautiful and memorable culinary experience for you and your guests.

Ready to Start Planning?

Submit your inquiry and Chef Qoya will be in touch to begin crafting your experience.

Submit an Inquiry