In Kenya, food isn’t just a necessity—it’s a vibe. From smoky mutura joints in Umoja to five-star kitchens in Karen, Kenyan chefs are redefining flavor, hustle, and hospitality. Whether they’re trained at Utalii or self-taught on TikTok, these culinary creatives are feeding the nation—one plate at a time.
So if you’re looking to hire a private chef, book catering for your event, or just want to know who’s cooking up magic in Kenya, this guide is for you.
🔥 The Rise of the Kenyan Chef
Gone are the days when being a chef was seen as “just kitchen work.” Today, chefs in Kenya are:
- ✅Hosting pop-up dinners and food festivals
- ✅Building personal brands on TikTok and Instagram
- ✅Running successful catering businesses
- ✅Teaching cooking classes and mentoring youth
- ✅Partnering with hotels, embassies, and corporates
From Chef Raphael to Dennis Ombachi (The Roaming Chef), Kenyan chefs are now influencers, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors.
🍽️ Types of Chefs You’ll Find in Kenya
| 👨🍳 Chef Type | 💡 What They Do |
|---|---|
| Private Chefs | Cook in homes for families, events, or VIPs |
| Event Caterers | Handle weddings, ruracios, funerals, etc. |
| Restaurant Chefs | Work in hotels, cafes, and fine dining spots |
| Content Creators | Share recipes and cooking tips online |
| Pastry & Dessert Chefs | Specialize in cakes, desserts, and baking |
📍 Where to Find Great Chefs in Kenya
You don’t need to scroll endlessly on Facebook or ask your auntie for a referral. Here’s where to look:
- ✅Balozy App – Book verified chefs with real reviews and transparent pricing
- ✅Instagram & TikTok – Follow chefs like @theroamingchef, @chefwaeastlando, and @simpleyemi
- ✅Culinary Schools – Utalii College, Impact Chef Academy, and Sensei Institute
- ✅Restaurants & Hotels – Mandhari, Tatu, Tamarind, and more
💡 Pro Tip: Always ask for a tasting session or portfolio before booking a chef for your event.
💸 How Much Do Chefs in Kenya Charge?
Pricing depends on the service, experience, and event size:
- ✅Private chef for home dinner: Ksh 5,000–15,000+
- ✅Event catering (per plate): Ksh 300–1,200
- ✅Pastry chef (cakes & desserts): Ksh 2,000–10,000+
- ✅Cooking classes: Ksh 1,000–5,000 per session
With Balozy, you can compare rates, chat with chefs, and book with confidence—no guesswork.
💬 Real Stories from the Kitchen
“I booked a private chef through Balozy for my anniversary dinner. The food was 🔥 and the setup was so elegant. Zero stress.” – Sheila, Kilimani
“As a chef, Balozy helped me grow my client base beyond Nairobi. I now get bookings in Nakuru and Kisumu!” – Chef Mercy, Balozy Pro
🎯 Final Word: Kenya’s Chefs Are Cooking Up More Than Just Food
They’re building brands. Creating jobs. And turning passion into profit.
So whether you’re planning a wedding, a corporate lunch, or just want to impress bae with a surprise dinner—hire a chef who brings flavor and flair.
👉 Download the Balozy App and book a verified chef near you. Because in Kenya, we don’t just eat—we celebrate every bite
