Epicurate, a Techstars-Backed Startup, Redefines Private Chef Services for Luxury In-Home Experiences

“Make sure you love what you’re doing, find a community, hire talent that understands how to scale, and then keep going,” advises Max Porterkhamsy, founder and CEO of Epicurate. With over 15 years of experience as a private chef and concierge, Max has successfully steered Epicurate into a phase of rapid growth since joining the Techstars Anywhere Spring 2024 program.

Originally, Epicurate served as a platform connecting private chefs with clients. However, Max identified a broader opportunity to provide personalized luxury experiences directly in clients’ homes. The company has since evolved into a booking engine for private chef services and other luxury offerings, designed to be as easy to use as making a restaurant reservation. This strategic pivot capitalizes on the growing demand for bespoke in-home services.

When Max began his career, there were only two private chefs available for hire in the Napa, Sonoma, and Bay Area regions. Today, that number has surged significantly. “I’ve seen several tech companies enter this market,” Max notes, “but none have offered the necessary support for chefs, concierges, and other service providers creating these luxury experiences.”

To better support these providers, Max engaged with luxury resorts, exclusive retreats, and high-end businesses. He found that many were eager to offer tailored luxury services, such as private chefs, to their guests and members. This enthusiasm reinforced Max’s belief in Epicurate’s future potential.

Joining Techstars Anywhere marked a turning point for Epicurate. The accelerator program provided essential business development resources and expanded the company’s network. As a result, Epicurate is projected to facilitate $4 million in private chef services this year, reflecting a remarkable 112% year-over-year growth. In just nine months, the company has scaled from 6 chefs in 3 markets to 100 chefs in 40 markets, with an Average Order Value (AOV) now at $2,700 per booking.

Epicurate’s success stems from its scalability and its ability to harness network effects. As more chefs join the platform and additional markets are served, it becomes increasingly appealing to both service providers and clients. By prioritizing personalization and providing strong support for chefs and luxury service providers, Epicurate has established itself as a leading player in this dynamic industry.

This early success showcases significant potential for future growth. Under Max Porterkhamsy’s leadership, Epicurate is not just facilitating private chef services; it is transforming how people experience luxury at home. With Techstars’ backing, Epicurate is well-positioned for even greater achievements, marking the beginning of an exciting journey ahead.