Man in a suit smiling at the camera

Bonjour!

I am Arno, owner and operator of Book A Chef (formerly arnojullien.com) with over 10 years experience as a private chef in Auckland, the French Riviera and Los Angeles. Before I dedicated my passion for food in a full time profession, I used to be a photographer and a film maker with an award-winning documentary. I returned to cuisine in 2016 when I graduated from the Paul Augier Culinary School in Nice. I trained in 5* Relais & ChateauxMas de Pierre with some of the best chefs on the French Riviera. Then in 2019, I met my wife Linda and relocated to Auckland where I started my private chef business. Since then, I catered to a myriad of formal or low key fine dining events, cooking classes, brand promotion, award and charity happenings, while gathering an expertise that has allowed me to replicate this success in the US recently.

In 2024, we moved to Los Angeles with our two young children. Linda is completing a Doctor of Musical Arts at USC and our kids are settled into elementary school. Meanwhile I’ve been working for busy families and retirees in Hollywood and south LA, while crafting niche food concepts and a range of plant-based products. We will be in touch with exciting news soon!

"Arno’s ability to create unforgettable dining experiences is second to none.

His passion and attention to detail are evident in every dish."

— Raymond V., CEO

Why hiring a Private Chef?

Clearly, it’s not just about convenience—it’s a personalized culinary experience made just for you, your taste and preferences. Enjoy restaurant-quality meals at home without lifting a finger, whether it’s about freeing time or living your best possible life. A private chef plans, shops, cooks, and cleans—so every meal is effortless, personalized, and leaves you with a sense of freedom and satisfaction.

A person holding a small appetizer with cream cheese and microgreens on a mini pancake.

Exclusive Events

Our dedication to the culinary arts extends to philanthropic initiatives and exclusive events, including:

  • New Zealand Food Awards Consumer Judges: Leveraging our expertise to evaluate and celebrate excellence in food innovation.

  • Fundraisers and Charity Events: We provide signature dinners at many auction events for over 500 attendees.

  • Totara and Harbour Hospice Events: Curated dining for events serving hundreds of distinguished patrons supporting a great cause.

  • Vintner’s Brunch: We offered our participation three years in a row with exceptional wine pairings and fine dining for elite audiences.

People at a social event looking at a table with assorted desserts.

High-Profile Patrons

From UHNW families and corporate executives to celebrated artists and sports icons, our services have catered to individuals who value refined taste and unmatched quality. Highlights include:

  • Private chef services for Her Majesty the Queen of Tonga and other dignitaries

  • Culinary experiences for renowned public figures, including CEOs, judges, attorneys, politicians and New Zealand All Blacks rugby players

Our expertise extends to working on Superyachts, private charters and luxury travel experiences. We have designed and executed menus for discerning clients, including:

  • SeaBreeze 3: Charter chef, curated bespoke menus for VIP guests

  • Odysseus: Event relief chef for exclusive onboard gatherings

  • Lagoon77: Consulting chef for private luxury catamaran

People gathered at a social event in a spacious, modern venue with artwork on the walls, black tablecloths, and decorative lighting.