Private chef experiences with Flavour & Wine

Arranged by our Concierge team

At Perfect Stays, we understand that exceptional food is at the heart of every great holiday. That's why private chef experiences remain one of the most requested services from our Concierge team, offering guests the chance to indulge in restaurant-quality dining from the comfort of their luxury holiday home.

As part of the launch of our brand new concierge hub, we recently caught up with Rob Michael of Flavour & Wine. With a passion for seasonal Cornish produce and a talent for creating unforgettable dining experiences, Rob is one of our most sought-after private chefs. We sat down with him to discover what makes his approach so unique and why dining in is one of the best ways to experience Cornwall's incredible culinary scene.
 

Talk us through your relationship with Perfect Stays. How has our Concierge team impacted your business?

Working with the Concierge team has been a pleasure - they were one of the first companies to support me when I started my private cheffing journey in 2021, and I couldn't be more grateful. They often connect me with guests celebrating special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, helping them make the most of their stay in Cornwall’s most spectacular homes.

One of the things I appreciate most is how well the team understands the importance of planning ahead. Their proactive approach ensures I can fulfil a large percentage of requests, which has had a really positive impact on my business.
 

Private dining is all about the experience - how do you create a truly special atmosphere for guests?

I completely agree – private dining is so much more than just a meal. It’s about crafting an immersive experience that engages all the senses.

It all starts with a personalised approach. I collaborate with guests to design a menu tailored to their tastes, the occasion, and the season. Beyond the food, we focus on every detail, from table settings to seamless service, to ensure a stress-free and memorable evening.

A typical experience lasts around two to three hours, with plenty of time for relaxed dining and conversation. Some guests love chatting and learning about the ingredients, while others prefer to sit back and enjoy the occasion. Whether it’s a candlelit, intimate dinner or a lively gathering with wine pairings, I tailor the atmosphere accordingly.
 

What inspires your menus, and how do you adapt them to reflect the seasons?

My menus are inspired by Cornwall’s incredible natural larder. From the freshest seafood landed daily to the outstanding produce grown by local farmers, the region provides a wealth of amazing ingredients. I work closely with trusted suppliers, like Thornes Fruit & Veg and Marisco Fish, to source the best seasonal ingredients, allowing me to create dishes that evolve throughout the year.

Seasonality is key – not only does it ensure the freshest and most flavourful dishes, but it also supports sustainability and the hardworking producers who make Cornwall such an exciting place for food-lovers.
 

What are some of your favourite Cornish ingredients to cook with, and why?

Cornwall is a dream location for a chef, but if I had to choose just one ingredient, it would have to be the fresh seafood.

We’re incredibly lucky to have Newlyn Harbour, one of the UK’s largest fishing ports, right on our doorstep. But even more special are Cornwall’s small day boats - the unsung heroes - which land the freshest catch using sustainable fishing methods. There’s nothing quite like working with seafood that was caught just hours before it reaches the plate, and this approach ensures superior quality while also protecting marine life and supporting local fishermen.
 

What’s one dish that always impresses, no matter the occasion?

One dish that never fails to impress is my blow-torched mackerel starter, served with a spiced rhubarb compote, hung yoghurt, dukkah, and foraged herbs.

The combination of flavours – smoky, tangy, creamy, and nutty – creates a perfect balance, while the use of locally sourced ingredients makes it a true reflection of Cornwall’s vibrant food culture. It’s a dish that always sparks conversation and keeps guests coming back for more.
 

What’s it like cooking at Perfect Stays properties, like Shun Lee?

Cooking in a Perfect Stays property is always a fantastic experience. I know that when I arrive, I’ll have plenty of space to work with and a well-equipped kitchen that makes the whole process seamless. While I always bring my own equipment, I rarely need it – the properties have everything I could ask for.

Homes like Shun Lee are particularly special because they offer spacious, open kitchens and beautiful dining areas, creating the perfect setting for a private dining experience. Whether it’s an intimate meal or a larger gathering, these properties are designed for memorable moments.

Good to know: Rob is happy to adjust menus to accommodate dietary requirements and personal preferences. Whether it’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergen-friendly dishes, he ensures every guest enjoys a tailored and inclusive dining experience.

Watch Rob's video case study or visit his Instagram for menu inspiration. 

Stay at Shun Lee in St Ives

Providing the perfect setting for Rob's interview, Shun Lee in St Ives is a stunning coastal retreat with breath-taking ocean views. This grand seven-bedroom home sleeps up to 14 guests and boasts a spacious, well-equipped kitchen - ideal for hosting a private dining experience. The sea-view living and dining areas create a dreamy backdrop for long, leisurely meals, while outside, guests can savour an al fresco supper as the sun sets over the harbour.

Just a short stroll away, St Ives' charming streets are lined with independent restaurants, bars, and cafés, offering endless opportunities to sample the town's vibrant food scene. And for those planning a winter escape, why not ring in the New Year here? St Ives is one of the UK's most sought-after destinations for New Year's Eve, and 2025 marks the first time ever that Shun Lee will be available for bookings.

Find out more about our Concierge team

Our concierge service goes far beyond private chef experiences. With a wealth of local knowledge, our team are on hand to curate unforgettable moments throughout your stay. Whether it's private surf lessons and board hire, in-house spa treatments, or securing restaurant reservations, we take care of the details so you can relax knowing all the finer details are taken of.

With our brand new concierge hub now live, you can explore the full range of services we offer, watch exclusive concierge case study videos and browse our FAQs to begin planning your perfect getaway. Or enquire directly with our Concierge team by emailing us on info@perfectstays.co.uk.

Image credits: all images are our own.