Scénologie by Caroline Blot cheffe à domicile

Chef-at-home services like Scénologie prepare and plate food directly at your venue, which means you get restaurant-quality plating and flexibility to adjust dishes throughout service. Traditional catering typically involves pre-prepared food transported in containers. The main trade-off is that on-site service requires adequate kitchen space and access, and may limit the number of guests compared to larger catering operations.

Request to understand her approach to dietary restrictions, seasonal ingredient availability, and whether she offers tasting menus, multi-course experiences, or simpler family-style options. Ask if she has signature dishes or specialties that align with Bordeaux's culinary traditions, and whether wine pairings are available. Clarify the timeline for finalizing menus and whether last-minute adjustments are possible.

Beyond the chef's fee, verify whether service staff (waiters/bartenders), equipment rental (tables, chairs, linens), beverages, and gratuity are included or separate line items. Some chefs charge by guest count while others charge flat fees plus ingredient costs. Ask about parking logistics if Caroline is traveling to your venue, and confirm whether travel time to locations outside central Bordeaux affects pricing.

Most chef-at-home services have minimum guests (often 15-20) to make the service economically viable. Contact Scénologie directly to confirm their minimums and typical booking windows—weekend events often require 2-4 weeks' notice, while weekday events may accommodate shorter timelines. Ask about availability during peak seasons (holidays, summer) when demand affects scheduling.

Discuss kitchen specifications directly with Caroline, including oven capacity, cooktop burners, refrigerator/freezer space, counter workspace, and access to hot water. Let her know if your venue has a small or shared kitchen, as this affects her ability to execute complex menus. Confirm she has authority to use any equipment already on-site (dishes, serving utensils) versus bringing her own.

Ask Scénologie about their cancellation policy, including notice periods and refund percentages at different stages. Chef-at-home services rely on ingredient sourcing and schedule planning, so policies are typically stricter than large catering firms. Understand whether deposits are refundable, what constitutes a valid reason for rescheduling, and whether they offer date flexibility or require rebooking as a new event.