If you've been handed the job of organising a hen party, you'll know there's a lot to think about. Accommodation, activities, games, outfits and, of course, food. For many hen groups, the highlight of the weekend is a big night in together, and nothing makes it feel more special than a private chef cooking for you.
At The Fig Pantry, we cook for hen parties across Somerset and the South West, from cosy cottages on Exmoor to large group houses near Bath and Bristol. Here's our step by step guide to planning the perfect hen party dinner with a private chef.
Why book a private chef for a hen party?
Going out for dinner with a big group can be stressful. Restaurants often limit group sizes, set menus can feel rushed, and getting everyone there and back again takes planning. A private chef brings the restaurant to you.
No one has to cook or wash up, including the organiser
You can stay in your outfits, play games and keep the drinks flowing between courses
The menu is designed around the bride to be and your group's tastes
Dietary requirements are easy to manage when the chef is cooking just for you
It feels special and memorable, the kind of evening everyone talks about afterwards
How to plan your hen party dinner, step by step
Set your date and book early. Popular hen weekends, especially Fridays and Saturdays from spring to autumn, get booked up fast. Once your accommodation is confirmed, book your private chef.
Confirm your guest numbers. A rough number is fine to start with. Your chef will need final numbers closer to the date.
Check the kitchen. Most holiday cottages and group houses have everything a private chef needs, but it helps to send over a link to the property or a few photos of the kitchen.
Choose your menu style. Decide whether you'd like a relaxed 2 course dinner, a classic 3 course meal or a tasting menu for a real wow factor.
Collect dietary requirements. Ask everyone about allergies and dietary needs when they confirm, so nothing is missed.
Plan the timings. Think about when you want to eat around your other activities. Many groups like canapés and drinks first, dinner after, and games or dancing to finish.
Add the personal touches. Ask your chef about including the bride's favourite dish, a themed menu or a special dessert to celebrate her.
Hen party menu ideas
Your menu should suit the vibe of your weekend. A few ideas to get you started:
Canapés and fizz: start the night with elegant bites such as mini Yorkshire puddings with rare roast beef, served while everyone gets ready
Classic dinner party: a seasonal starter, a show stopping main and an indulgent dessert
Tasting menu: several smaller, beautifully plated courses for a fine dining night in
Italian night: burrata with heritage tomatoes, fresh pasta and tiramisu
Morning after brunch: a private chef brunch to bring everyone back to life the next day
The best hen party menus are the ones that feel personal, so tell your chef what the bride loves and let them build something around her.
Hen party private chef across Somerset and the South West
The South West is one of the most popular places in the country for hen weekends, with beautiful countryside, lively cities and stunning coastline. We cook for hen parties across:
Bath and Bristol: city hen weekends and group houses in the surrounding villages
Somerset: Taunton, Wells, Glastonbury, Frome, Yeovil, Bridgwater, Minehead and Weston-super-Mare
Exmoor and the Quantocks: cosy cottages and countryside retreats
Devon: Exeter, East Devon and the coast
Dorset: Sherborne, Dorchester and the Jurassic Coast
Wiltshire: Bradford-on-Avon, Trowbridge and Warminster
Looking for a hen party private chef in Bath, hen weekend catering in Bristol or a private chef for a hen do in a Somerset cottage? Get in touch, and if your location isn't listed, just ask.
Book your hen party private chef
The Fig Pantry is a Somerset private dining and catering company led by Chef Sam. We bring restaurant quality food and a relaxed, friendly service to your hen weekend, so you can focus on celebrating the bride.
Hen party of 12 or more? Book any of our 2 course, 3 course or tasting menus and we'll add complimentary canapés, the perfect way to kick off the night.
To book, send us your date, location and guest numbers. Email enquiries@thefigpantry.co.uk or visit thefigpantry.co.uk. You can also see more of our food on Instagram at @chefsam83.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book a private chef for a hen party?
As soon as your accommodation is confirmed. Weekends from spring to autumn are popular, so booking a few months ahead gives you the best chance of securing your date.
Can a private chef cook in a holiday cottage?
Yes. Most of our hen party bookings are in holiday cottages and group houses. Just send us details of the kitchen when you book.
How many guests can you cook for?
We cook for small groups and large hen parties alike. Get in touch with your numbers and we'll suggest the best menu for your group.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes. Let us know about any allergies, vegetarian, vegan or other dietary needs and we'll include them in your menu.
Can you do a brunch the morning after?
Yes. A private chef brunch is a great way to start the second day of a hen weekend.
Where do you travel to?
We're based in Somerset and cook for hen parties across the South West, including Bath, Bristol, Taunton, Exmoor, Devon, Dorset and Wiltshire.
