Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT US
Who is Savory Celebration?
Savory Celebration is a Houston culinary experience and education company led by Chef Robbie Rensel. We bring people together through Iron Chef competitions, private cooking lessons, in-home private dining, executive board dinners and culinary wellbeing coaching.
Where do you operate?
We serve Greater Houston—River Oaks, Memorial, The Heights, West University, Tanglewood, Galleria, Bellaire, Sugar Land, Katy, The Woodlands, and Downtown—and frequently partner with premium venues. Destination events are available with travel arrangements.
SERVICES & EXPERIENCES
What services do you offer?
• Private Chef Dinners & Tasting Menus
• Executive & Board Dinners
• Team-Building: Iron Chef Competitions
• Private Individual & Group Cooking Lessons (charcuterie, knife skills, culinary fundamentals)
• Cocktail Parties with curated bites and mixology
• Custom Engraved Gifts for corporate & VIP events
• Culinary Wellbeing & Coaching
Do you provide staff, rentals, and equipment?
Yes. We provide chefs, servers, bartenders, sommeliers, and event managers, along with tables, chairs, linens, china, flatware, glassware, bars, and mobile kitchen equipment.
Do you create custom engraved gifts?
Yes. From logo-etched barware to premium culinary gifts, we handle design, engraving, and fulfillment for corporate gifting, VIP thank-yous, and event takeaways.
BOOKING & LOGISTICS
How does the booking process work?
1. Discovery call → goals, guest count, location, and style
2. Custom proposal → menu, staffing, rentals, and pricing
3. Confirmation → agreement + retainer secures your date
4. Planning → logistics, service details, headcount
5. Event day → chef-led execution, white-glove service, full cleanup
How far in advance should I book?
2-4 weeks is ideal for private dinners, 8–12+ weeks for corporate, holiday, or large events. Rush bookings may be possible if our calendar allows. We try to accommodate every request and serve our clients the best we can.
Do you have a minimum?
Minimums vary by event size, date, and service type. We’ll suggest the most cost-effective format for your goals. We welcome a phone conversation about your event. If we are unable to accommodate it, we will refer you to a partner chef who can.
How do payments and cancellations work?
A 50% deposit secures your date. Final headcount and payment are due before the event. Cancellation windows depend on event size and rentals. We try to be flexible with our clients because we know life happens.
Are gratuities included?
No. Gratuities are optional
MENU & DIETARY NEEDS
Can you accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions?
Yes. We regularly design menus for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, nut-free, and shellfish-free guests. We follow strict cross-contact protocols but cannot guarantee a 100% allergen-free environment.
What does a sample five-course tasting menu look like?
• Course 1: Soup
• Course 2: Salad
• Course 3: Seafood
• Course 4: Steak or Meat
• Course 5: Dessert
Chef’s Note: We avoid repeating the same ingredient across multiple courses to keep your palate fully engaged.
Do you offer wine pairings or bar service?
Yes. We curate wine pairings for each course and can coordinate with a Master Sommelier. We also design signature cocktails/mocktails if preferred.
SPECIALTY EXPERIENCES
Do you handle corporate and board dinners?
Yes. We specialize in confidential, executive-level dining with discreet staff and customized menus for boardrooms, investors, and VIP clients.
What is the Iron Chef team-building experience?
A competitive culinary challenge with mystery ingredients, chef coaching, timed cooking, judging, and awards. Perfect for team building, sales incentives, and corporate culture events.
Do you offer classes like charcuterie or knife skills?
Yes. Learn one-on-one with Chef Robbie or gather a private group for a lesson shaped around your interests. Topics include knife skills, charcuterie, culinary fundamentals, cooking for college and exploring careers in private-chef work, restaurants, hotels or a food business. Explore private cooking lessons.
CONTACT & QUOTES
How do I get a quote?
Email Chef and Owner Robbie Rensel directly at robbie@savorycelebration.com or call his cell at 832-510-5375 with your date, guest count, location, and goals. We’ll provide a tailored proposal that fits your vision and needs.
Will you work in my home, office, or a venue?
All of the above. We specialize in in-home dining but also service offices, showrooms, rooftops, galleries, and partner venues across Houston.