Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? This is a good place to start.
Here is a list of the most common questions new customers and chefs asked

Does the genie serve the food?

By default, our genies will prepare everything Family Style. At checkout you will have the option to add plating or full service for an additional cost per person. Note: not all chefs offer different service types.

Can I ask to replace one ingredient with a matching one?

You can provide such requests in the special instruction box during checkout. We will get back in touch with you if our genie can't fulfill your request.

When will the genie arrive at my home?

Depending on the menu and number of guests, your chef will arrive anywhere from 2-4 hours ahead of your selected mealtime. Genie arrival time will also be noted when you checkout on your order summary.

Will the genie bring all the utensils needed for the cooking?

No. In most cases, the genies use your utensils/equipment. The genie may use a special pot/pan for specific dishes and bring their own upon request.

When the genie arrives, what do they need from me?

Please show the genie around the kitchen so they can familiarize themselves with the essentials.

Can I purchase a gift card?

Yes, you can purchase gift card here.

Do I need to be in the kitchen while the genie is cooking?

No! You can take this extra time to connect with your guests and do anything you need to do in the house. But feel free to engage in a few minutes of conversation with your genie.

How do I apply a promo code or Gift Card?

If you have a promo code or a gift card code, you can apply it at the time of checkout. Promo codes are not able to be used with a gift card.

Do I tip the genie?

The set pricing of your CookinGenie experience includes ingredients and their standard hourly rate. However, tipping for good and excellent service is always appreciated. You will be prompted to add this checkout. Tip will not be charged until 24 hours after the job is done, in this time you may adjust your tip amount if you desire.

Can I make a custom request to my genie?

Yes, at check out, you will get an option to leave special instructions for each dish or the whole order (Ex.: No cheese on this or 1 gluten free guest). Reach out to support@cookingenie.com with help in customizing your order.

Can I reschedule my appointment?

In most cases, it is possible to reschedule appointments with 72-hour notice. If you have an emergency, we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

When does my gift card expire?

Our gift cards have a 12-month validity period. We may offer you a limited-time promotional gift card in some exceptional cases. If in doubt, call (833) 436-4387 or email us at support@cookingenie.com, and we can verify your expiration.

How are genies screened and selected for the platform?

We go through an extensive screening process with each genie to be sure we’re putting the best quality food and service out there. All our genies go through:
  • Interview with our Executive Chef
  • Background check
  • Test Cook: Unlike other platforms, we taste test every one of our genies
How do I apply a promo code or Gift Card? If you have a promo code or a gift card code, you can apply it at the time of checkout. Promo codes are not able to be used with a gift card

I did not find any genies in my zip code. What do I do?

First, try selecting another date. If you still do not find any rest assured, we are expanding our markets of operations and will hopefully be in your neck of the woods soon. For more information, call us on (833) 436-4387 or email us at support@cookingenie.com.

What if my kitchen isn’t great...?

Our genies have cooked in kitchens of all sizes. They usually need access to a functioning set of appliances (fridge, cooktop, oven) and standard kitchen accessories (pots, pans, spatulas, mixing bowls). If the chef needs something specific, they will check in ahead of time. If you do not have the item, the genie will bring a backup (e.g., a lasagna pan).

I just booked a genie. Now what?

After placing the order, you will receive confirmation at your registered email address and mobile number. It will have the details of your order and prompt you to add your kitchen information to your CookinGenie profile (if it is not there already). You can also chat with the chef through the site or our app.

Can you select multiple genies in the same order?

Sorry, you can only book one genie per appointment.

How can I find all the Genies in my service area?

To find genies available in your area:
  • Enter your zip code or address, the date you would like the genie to come to cook for you and number of guests
  • Tap the 'Find' button.
P.S. You might have more genies in your area than you see based on their availability. If there’s a specific genie you would like to hire, you can find their availability on their profile.

How do I place an order?

  • Go to cookingenie.com or open your mobile app
  • Enter your zip code or exact address
  • Add items to your cart from a genie's menu and checkout
  • Select the date and time you would like the genie to come to cook for you
 

Can I reschedule my appointment?

In most cases, it is possible to reschedule appointments with 24-hour notice. If you have an emergency, we will do our best to accommodate your needs. This is complimentary if you need to reschedule to maintain isolation in cases of communicable illness.

Does the Genie serve the food?

Many of our Genies are excellent at plating. Unfortunately, our genies might not wait till you eat. However, if you want to serve the food a certain way, you can request our genie. They will do their best to help you. For meal prep, please provide the containers the Genies can use to store the food. Remember to give the desired crocks you would like the genie to use to serve the food.

Can I ask to replace one ingredient with a matching one?

You can provide such requests in the special instruction box during checkout. We will get back in touch with you if our genie can’t fulfill your request.

How does the pricing? What is included and not included?

The pricing includes everything (labor and groceries). No added charges, no surprises. We encourage a tip if you are happy with the work of the genie, but it is optional.

I have decided on a Genie and my menu, but the genie is unavailable on the selected date. What do I do?

Sometimes, we may not have the schedule updated for genies for more than two weeks, or our genie may not be working on the date selected. However, if you let us know, we can contact the genie to check their availability. My favorite dish, is not on your menu. We are constantly trying to expand our service areas and cuisines. Please call (833) 436-4387 or email us at support@cookingenie.com with your dish requests. We will work hard to include it on our menu soon.

When will the genie arrive at my home?

A genie will arrive at the time of your appointment with all the groceries needed to cook your meal.

Will the genie bring all the utensils needed for the cooking?

No. In most cases, the genies use your utensils/equipment. The genie may use a special pot/pan for specific dishes and bring their own upon request.

When the genie arrives, what do they need from me?

Please show the genie around the kitchen so they can familiarize themselves with the essentials like pots/pans/kitchen equipment/spatulas/cleaning supplies/salt/sugar/oil.

How long is an appointment?

An appointment is a minimum of 1.5 hours. And depending on the number of dishes or complexity of the required meals, it may go up. We will let you know if the appointment will take over two hours.

My appointment time is 4–6 pm. What does that mean?

It means the genie will arrive at your home by 4 pm to cook your meal & will finish up around 6 pm.

Do I need to be in the kitchen while the genie is cooking?

No, you do not need to stay in the kitchen while the genie prepares the dishes. But please feel free to engage in a few minutes of conversation. The genies may appreciate it as well. It is their first time in your home & it may help them to feel welcome.

Do I tip the genie on completion?

The prices are all-inclusive (ingredients and labor). We recommend you tip the genie if you have had a good experience. To reward the genie, you can give cash or reach out to us so we can charge it to your card.

Can I purchase a gift card?

Yes, you can purchase gift cards for various occasions such as Father’s day, Mother’s day, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, Teacher’s Day, Holiday Greetings, and more.

Can I request a custom gift card?

Yes, you can. Please contact us via phone at (833) 436-4387 or email us at support@cookingenie.com to get a personalized gift card.

What is the validity of a gift card?

Our gift cards have a 12-month validity period. We may offer you a limited-time promotional gift card in some exceptional cases. If in doubt, call (833) 436-4387 or email us at support@cookingenie.com, and we can verify this for you.

Can we do custom request to Genie?

Yes, at check out, you will get an option to leave special instructions for each dish. You can ask for customization then. If your customization changes the order’s pricing, we will be in touch with you with a refund or an upcharge.

How do I apply the coupon code?

If you have a coupon code, you can apply it at the time of checkout.

What happens if I need to cancel my reservation?

We know that sometimes things happen, and you may need to change your plans. We enforce a transparent cancellation policy for reservations to ensure a good experience for you and the Genies on our platform.

Cancellation policy

  • You can cancel until 7 days before your reservation for a 100% refund.
  • You can cancel between 6 days and 72 hours (about 3 days) before your reservation for a 50% refund.
  • No refunds for cancelations less than 72 hours before the reservation.

Genie cancellations

If for any reason, our Genie cannot arrive for the reservation after accepting your booking, you will get a full refund.

Safety

Our Genies are trained chefs or well experienced cooks who know how to handle food safely. Our genies always wear masks during the appointment, and we request you practice social distancing while the genie is in your kitchen. Another key safety measure is handwashing. You will see our Genies wash hands religiously during the cooking process.

Dietary preferences/allergies

We cater to all dietary preferences. If you have a special dietary need, you can leave us your instructions in the “special instruction” box while ordering and we will alter the dish to suit your tastes. We will try our best to accommodate most requests. For food allergies, please indicate in the special instructions box too. Also please feel free to call our support number.

Dishes

We have over 300 dishes on our platform. The dishes range from appetizers, salads, soups, entrees, desserts etc. The dishes are quite varied to cater to many tastes. For example, we have regular entrees featuring beef, pork, chicken, salmon as well as vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, kid friendly, leftover friendly options.

Cuisines

We are a digital restaurant with multiple cuisines. Italian, American, Mexican, Indian, Peruvian, English – the list goes on. Some of our Genies mix and match techniques resulting in fusion dishes. For example, we have an American classic surf and turf dish with classic French sauces (like Bechamel) and Italian sides (like Risotto). So Some dishes are unique creations only available at CookinGenie.com.

Allergies & Dietary Restrictions

If you have any food allergies or must follow a dietary plan, CookinGenie can help you here. Our genies can work around your dietary restrictions to create the right meal for you. We have local and international cuisines on our menu, and we can customize them according to your diet.

For Seniors

Are you looking for fresh home-cooked meal options for your special dietary needs? CookinGenie can work around your dietary restrictions to create a balanced meal right for you. We have local and international cuisines on our menu, and we can customize them according to your diet.

Gifting an experience

If you wish to excite your loved ones with a unique gift, we have CookinGenie Gift cards available for every occasion: birthdays, anniversaries, mother’s day, teacher’s day, and more. Please visit https://cookingenie.com/gift-experience to find a gift card of your choice. Couldn’t find what you need? Please reach out to us, and we can help create a new design just for you. Call at (833) 436-4387 or email us at support@cookingenie.com.

Dinner Party

Planning a party or just hanging out with friends, CookinGenie will help you to create a memorable experience. Based on your requirements, our genie will shop fresh groceries, prepare them in your kitchen and plate them for you while you enjoy your time with your loved ones.

Meal prep

If you have a busy lifestyle and want fresh and healthy meals, CookinGenie will be the right solution. With CookinGenie, you can:
  • Enjoy healthy meals cooked right in your kitchen by an expert chef.
  • Choose different cuisines from the genie’s menu.
  • Customize your order for your dietary requirement.
  • Reheat to enjoy your favorite dish later.

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