Flavour comes first
My menus bring together Mediterranean influences, British favourites and ideas from my time in professional kitchens. I focus on balanced flavours, seasonal ingredients and careful presentation.
The chef behind your evening
About Chef Alpay
A private chef in Leicester, bringing thoughtful food and a warm welcome to tables across the Midlands.
I’m Alpay. My career has taken me from Istanbul to London’s professional kitchens, and now into the homes and holiday houses where my guests celebrate together.
With over 15 years of cooking experience, I bring care to every course. But what matters most to me is the time you get to spend with the people around your table.
15+ years’ experienceBased in LeicestershireMenus planned with you
From Istanbul to your table
My journey through professional kitchens
My cooking journey began in Istanbul and continued in London. Along the way, I worked at Fortnum & Mason, Rosewood Hotel, Tate Modern Events, Marriott Grosvenor House and the Royal Academy of Arts.
Those kitchens taught me to prepare carefully, pay attention to small details and keep service running smoothly. I also had the privilege of cooking for members of the Royal Family on different occasions.
Today, I bring that experience to Chef Alpay Private Dining. You deal with me directly, from our first conversation about the menu to the final preparations for your event.
How I like to cook
Good food. Personal service. Time together.
A successful dinner starts with listening. I want to understand what you enjoy, who you’re celebrating with and how you want the occasion to feel.
Choices that suit your guests
We discuss your favourite dishes and the style of service you prefer. Then we plan the menu around your group, including dietary requirements shared before the event.
Space to enjoy hosting
I take care of the cooking, agreed food service and kitchen clean-up. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the conversation and spend time with your guests.
People behind the celebrations
Real guests, shared moments
These photographs come from my private dining events. They show the part of this work I value most: meeting people and helping them celebrate together.
Your occasion, your way
Private dining for the moments that matter
You might be organising a birthday, an anniversary, a hen weekend or a long-overdue catch-up. I offer three-course dinners, canapés and sharing menus, including Turkish meze, to suit different celebrations.
For weddings, corporate dinners and larger groups, we discuss the kitchen, timings and staffing before agreeing the service.
Explore your celebration
Based in Leicestershire
At home across the Midlands
I’m based in the Leicester and Loughborough area and travel for private dining across the Midlands, including Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Birmingham and Lincolnshire.
Whether you’re hosting at home or staying in a holiday cottage, send me the postcode with your enquiry. I’ll confirm availability and the arrangements for your location.
Ask about your date and locationWhat we organise together
We agree your menu, guest numbers, dietary needs and serving time in advance. I usually arrive two to three hours before the meal to prepare and set up.
I bring my cooking equipment and use your kitchen, plates and cutlery. If you need help arranging tableware or additional waiting staff, please mention this on the enquiry form.
Before we start planning
A few useful questions
Can you adapt the menu for dietary requirements?
Yes. We can discuss vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options, and halal meat is available on request. Please share all allergies and dietary requirements when you enquire so I can assess your requirements and agree suitable dishes with you.
Do you bring your own equipment?
Yes, I bring my own cooking equipment, including pots, pans and knives. I use your plates and cutlery. If you need help arranging these, I’m happy to assist. Please let me know on the enquiry form.
Can you cook at our holiday cottage or Airbnb?
Yes, subject to availability and a suitable kitchen. Please check with your host that they allow an external chef, then share the property location and kitchen details when you enquire.
How do I arrange a private dinner?
Use the booking enquiry form to send your date, postcode, guest count and occasion. Include any dietary requirements. I’ll come back to you with availability, menu options and a quote.
Let’s make a plan
Tell me what you’re celebrating.
Share a few details, and we’ll start with a menu that feels right for you and your guests.