The Runcible Spoon’s Jennifer Urda
chefjen@myhousechef.com; www.myhousechef.com
It sounds fancy-schmancy, but, in reality, hiring a personal chef is often no more costly than what you’re already paying for in prepared foods. All you do is discuss the kinds of meals that interest you, and Chef Jennifer Urda takes it from there, offering you menu choices and suggestions before coming to your house and cooking the day away. Hire her once for a week’s worth of food, or book her for a more regular schedule; she’s flexible. She’s also super-organized, marking each dish with instructions and storing items neatly in your fridge or freezer. Our personal favorites: her Peruvian chicken and Guinness beef stew.