I create warm, restaurant-quality private dining experiences that feel personal, flexible, and perfectly tailored to you.

James Moedt

I bring Melbourne-honed fine dining into your home—precise, fun, and made for connection.

I’m a chef with 18 years of experience, and I started my apprenticeship at 14. I’ve spent my career moving through Melbourne kitchens, most recently as Executive Chef across five venues in Port Melbourne, Yarraville, and Cremorne.

Since November 2022, I’ve been a full-time private chef, and I love how much more I can connect with my guests than I ever could in restaurants. I’m personable, flexible, and dedicated to making your experience your version of perfect—whether that means an elevated celebration or a relaxed night of incredible food.

Plan my event with you

My secret in the kitchen is preparation—I like to be so well prepared that I can stay engaged with my guests while I put the finishing touches on every dish.

What you can expect when you dine with me

I cook to share creativity and connection

For me, cooking is a way to share my passion and creativity with those around me. I design each menu to feel generous, thoughtful, and genuinely enjoyable—food that brings people together.

I blend fine-dining precision with real joy

I learned at Alinea in Chicago, where working in a 3 Michelin star kitchen taught me that precision is important, but fun is the real secret ingredient. I bring that balance to every private dining experience I create.

I’m prepared so I can stay present with you

My philosophy is simple: preparation. I set everything up so smoothly that I can keep engaging with my guests, stay responsive to the moment, and finish each dish with care—without disappearing into the kitchen.

James Moedt’s Menus

I offer curated multi-course menus inspired by the cuisines I love—designed for intimate dinners or larger gatherings. I’ll help you choose the right menu for your night and make the experience seamless from the first course to dessert.

Request a menu

Stories and Testimonials

Chef James was amazing! This was our first time having a private chef so we really didn’t know what to expect, but from the first impression, to set up, to being served his incredible dishes, and the stories he shared with us on the night, my wife and I were blown away by the experience. It didn’t feel too formal, everything was very relaxed, and he accommodated to our needs. It really did feel like having your own private chef. We will definitely be reaching out again and I have already recommended many of my friends and colleagues to give Take A Chef a try for a special occasion. Thank you James!

Michael Pajar

Our evening with Chef James will be an experience my family and I will cherish for many years! His professionalism, sociability and quality of food all contributed to the fun event. I highly recommend Chef James to all and cannot wait to have another evening with him!

Renee

James was amazing, did a fantastic job, the food was five star !!

Kathleen

James was a great chef. The food was incredible "nikkei" mix of south american and japanese flavours. He nailed all the dishes, but most importantly was super relaxed, engaging with guests and paced the food really well. Would recommend James to anyone.

Darren p Craike