Terms of Service

1. About ChefXperience

ChefXperience ("ChefXperience," "we," "our," or "us") operates an online marketplace that connects customers ("Customers," "you") with independent private chefs ("Chefs"). ChefXperience is a technology platform only. We are not a restaurant, caterer, food service provider, or the employer of any Chef. Chefs are independent contractors who set their own menus, prices, availability, and policies.

2. Eligibility & Account

• You must be at least 18 years old to book a Chef.
• You agree to provide accurate information and to keep your account secure.
• You are responsible for all activity that occurs under your account.

3. Bookings & Payment

When you submit a booking request, you are making an offer to engage the Chef directly. A booking is confirmed only when the Chef accepts. Pricing, menus, ingredient costs, travel fees, and equipment requirements are set by each Chef and disclosed on their profile and during checkout. ChefXperience processes payment on the Chef's behalf and retains a platform fee.

4. Independent Contractor Relationship

Chefs are independent contractors who provide services in your home or chosen venue. ChefXperience does not direct or control how Chefs prepare or serve food. Chefs are solely responsible for their work, compliance with food safety regulations, and any required permits, licenses, certifications, and insurance.

5. Customer Responsibilities

• Provide a safe, sanitary, and accessible kitchen and dining space.
• Disclose all known food allergies, intolerances, and dietary restrictions for every guest before the event (see our Food Allergy & Risk Disclosure).
• Disclose pets, accessibility concerns, parking, and equipment availability at booking.
• Ensure all guests are aware of food contents; you are responsible for informing them of allergens.
• Comply with all applicable laws regarding service of alcohol and minors.

6. Cancellations & Refunds

Cancellations are governed by our Cancellation & Refund Policy, which forms part of these Terms.

7. Assumption of Risk; Allergy Acknowledgment

You acknowledge that food preparation and consumption carry inherent risks including, without limitation, allergic reactions, foodborne illness, cross-contamination, and choking. Even with reasonable precautions, cross-contact with allergens cannot be guaranteed in a residential kitchen. By booking, you accept these risks for yourself and your guests.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, ChefXperience, its affiliates, officers, employees, and agents shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, arising from your use of the platform or services provided by a Chef. ChefXperience's aggregate liability for any claim arising out of or related to these Terms shall not exceed the amount you paid ChefXperience for the booking giving rise to the claim.

9. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless ChefXperience from any claims, damages, losses, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from your use of the platform, your breach of these Terms, failure to disclose allergies or dietary restrictions, or your interactions with any Chef or guest.

10. Dispute Resolution & Binding Arbitration

Please read this section carefully — it affects your legal rights. Any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to these Terms or the platform shall be resolved through binding individual arbitration administered by JAMS or the American Arbitration Association under their applicable rules. You and ChefXperience waive the right to a trial by jury or to participate in a class action. Either party may bring an individual claim in small-claims court if eligible. This section is governed by the Federal Arbitration Act.

11. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, excluding its conflict-of-laws rules.

12. Changes to These Terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. Continued use of the platform after changes take effect constitutes acceptance.

13. Contact

Questions about these Terms? Contact us.