Hiring a private chef in Provence is about more than enjoying a meal. It is about experiencing a way of life shaped by seasonal Provençal cuisine, colourful markets, and family traditions that have been passed down for generations.
From ripe strawberries and asparagus in spring to aromatic herbs gathered in the hills, every ingredient tells the story of the region. Chef Barbara brings this Mediterranean cooking heritage directly to your villa, creating authentic dishes that reflect the flavours and traditions of Provence. Guests can expect more than dinner – they enjoy an immersive dining experience that blends market produce, culinary storytelling, and the comfort of villa dining in Provence.
From Provence to the kitchen
Chef Barbara grew up in a large Provençal family where food was always at the centre of life. Long tables filled with seasonal dishes remain some of her fondest memories, and today she recreates that same atmosphere for her guests. After earning a master’s degree in communication and travelling abroad for inspiration, she returned to her native region to begin her culinary journey as a private chef in Provence.
A self-taught chef with deep ties to the land, Barbara is dedicated to ethical, seasonal, and authentic Mediterranean cuisine. She takes inspiration from the farmers’ markets of the Luberon, the edible flowers of Comestible Atelier, and the Italian recipes passed down from her grandmother. Her cooking is both a reflection of her heritage and a celebration of seasonal Provençal cuisine.
Barbara's favourite place to eat in Provence
When she is not in the kitchen, Barbara enjoys dining at La Terrasse in the village of Goult, where her family originates. Run by two passionate chefs, the restaurant offers ever-changing menus built around the produce of local farmers. With its terrace overlooking the rooftops of the village, La Terrasse combines exceptional food with a memorable setting.
Having a private dining experience in your villa
Hiring Barbara as your private chef in Provence means more than sitting down to dinner. Guests are welcomed into the kitchen where the scent of fresh herbs, simmering sauces, and baked tarts fill the air. Each dish takes shape in front of them, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and immersive.
Barbara enjoys sharing anecdotes from her Provençal and Mediterranean heritage while preparing each course. For those who want to be more involved, she offers interactive moments during the cooking process, giving insights into techniques, ingredients, and family traditions. Villa dining in Provence with Barbara is not just about food – it is an authentic cultural experience.
A recipe to try at home | fresh strawberry, lime and elderflower tart
To give a taste of her table, Barbara shares her recipe for a fresh strawberry, lime and elderflower tart. The crisp oatmeal shortbread base, topped with mascarpone lime cream and decorated with strawberries and elderflowers, is a celebration of spring flavours and seasonal Provençal ingredients.
Ingredients for fresh strawberry, lime and elderflower tart (serves 8)
- 500 g strawberries
- Elderflowers (or other edible flowers, or pistachio pieces)
- 18 cl liquid whole cream
- 200 g mascarpone
- 30 g icing sugar
- 1 lime
For the oatmeal shortbread
- 40 g brown sugar
- 60 g caster sugar
- 90 g oat flakes
- 60 g T55 flour
- 70 g unsalted butter
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch cinnamon
Method
Oatmeal shortbread
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Mix the sugars, oat flakes, flour, salt and cinnamon in a bowl. Add the butter, cut into small pieces, and mix with your fingers to create a crumbly dough.
- Spread evenly inside a 25 cm tart or cake ring on a lined baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes, then allow to cool.
Lime whipped cream
- In the bowl of a food processor, whisk the cream and mascarpone until stiff.
- Add the icing sugar, lime zest and juice.
Assembly
- Pipe or spread the cream onto the cooled oatmeal shortbread.
- Add halved strawberries on top.
- Decorate with elderflowers, pistachio pieces, or other edible toppings.
Booking chef Barbara is the perfect way to enjoy authentic Mediterranean cooking in the comfort of your villa. Each meal celebrates the ingredients of Provence while honouring family traditions and seasonal Provençal cuisine. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or simply want a unique dining experience, Barbara’s cooking brings Provence to life.
If you would like to invite Barbara to cook during your stay in Provence, please contact our concierge service.
À bientôt,
The Provence Holidays Team
