Terms & Conditions

1. ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS
 

Welcome to Chef & Sous, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Chef & Sous,” “we,” “us,” or “our”). These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your access to and use of the Chef & Sous Platform, including our website, mobile application, and any related services (collectively, the “Service”). By accessing or using the Platform or Service, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

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PLEASE READ THESE TERMS CAREFULLY. BY ACCESSING OR USING ANY PART OF THE SERVICE, YOU ACKNOWLEDGE THAT YOU HAVE READ, UNDERSTAND AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THESE TERMS. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THESE TERMS, EXIT THIS PAGE AND DO NOT ACCESS OR USE THE PLATFORM OR SERVICE. USE OF THE PLATFORM AND SERVICE IS EXPRESSLY CONDITIONED UPON YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THE TERMS.

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Your use of the Service is also governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated by reference into these Terms.

 

For purposes of these Terms, the following definitions apply. Capitalized terms used in these Terms but not otherwise defined in this Section 2 shall have the meanings given to them elsewhere in these Terms, in any policies incorporated by reference, or as otherwise defined within the context in which they appear.

2. DEFINITIONS

 

“Booking” means a confirmed reservation for a Session or consultation between a Sous and a Chef made through the Platform.

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“Chef” means an independent culinary professional who offers Sessions, lessons, or consultations through the Platform. Chefs are independent contractors and not employees or agents of Chef & Sous.

 

“Content” means all information, materials, data, text, recipes, photographs, videos, graphics, messages, profiles, reviews, communications, and other material uploaded, posted, transmitted, or displayed on or through the Platform, whether provided by Chefs, Sous, or Chef & Sous.

 

“Credits” means any digital or promotional value issued by Chef & Sous that may be used to purchase or apply toward Sessions or other Platform features, subject to applicable terms and expiration dates.

 

“Platform” means the Chef & Sous digital environment, including its website, mobile application, video tools, and all related systems, technologies, and interfaces operated by Chef & Sous, through which Users can discover, schedule, communicate, and process payments for Sessions. The Platform includes all software, databases, and functionalities that enable the Service but does not include the devices, networks, or third-party services used by Users to access it.

 

“Platform Fee” means the service fee charged by Chef & Sous for facilitating bookings, payments, and the use of Platform tools and technology.

 

“Promotional Campaign” means any marketing or incentive initiative offered by Chef & Sous at our sole discretion, which may include bonus credits, discounts, referral rewards, or other benefits for actions such as account registration, booking Sessions, completing reviews, or referring new Users. Terms, eligibility, expiration, and availability of promotional offers are subject to change and will be specified at the time of issuance.

 

“Service” means the Chef & Sous website, mobile application, and all related services, tools, features, and content provided by the Company to facilitate discovery, scheduling, communication, and payments for Sessions.

 

“Session” means a scheduled, live, interactive cooking or consultation event conducted via the Platform’s video or communication tools between a Sous and a Chef.

 

“Sous” means an individual user who books, attends, or participates in a live cooking Session or consultation with a Chef through the Platform.

 

“User” means any individual who accesses or uses the Platform, including both Chefs and Sous participants.

 

3. ELIGIBILITY

 

3.1 Age and Authority

 

You must be at least 18 years of age to use the Service. By accessing or using the Service, you represent and warrant that you are at least 18 years old and have the legal capacity to enter into and be bound by these Terms. If you are accessing or using the Service on behalf of another individual or entity, you represent and warrant that you have the authority to bind that individual or entity to these Terms.

 

3.2 Geographic Restrictions

The Service is intended for use worldwide, subject to applicable laws and any restrictions or limitations imposed by Chef & Sous based on regional compliance, licensing, or operational considerations. Certain features, payment methods, or promotional campaigns may vary by country or region. Chef & Sous reserves the right to limit or restrict access to the Service in specific jurisdictions at any time to comply with local laws or business requirements.

 

3.3 Chef Requirements

If you register or apply as a Chef, you represent and warrant that you: (a) possess the qualifications, skills, and expertise necessary to offer the culinary sessions, lessons, or consultations you provide; (b) will comply with all applicable food safety, health, and business regulations in your jurisdiction; (c) are solely responsible for obtaining and maintaining any licenses, permits, or insurance required to conduct your activities; and (d) will provide accurate information about your background, experience, and identity.

You understand and agree that Chef & Sous does not independently verify, monitor, or guarantee any Chef’s credentials, qualifications, or compliance with laws or regulations. Sous are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence before booking any Session.

 

4. ACCOUNT REGISTRATION AND SECURITY

 

4.1 Account Creation

To access and use certain features of the Service, including booking or hosting Sessions, you must create an account on the Platform. By creating an account, you agree to: (a) provide accurate, current, and complete information during registration; (b) verify your identity through a one-time password (OTP), email, or other verification method required by Chef & Sous; (c) promptly update your information to keep it accurate and complete; (d) maintain the security and confidentiality of your login credentials and account access; (e) be fully responsible for all activity that occurs under your account; and (f) promptly notify us of any unauthorized use, access, or suspected breach of your account security.

You also agree to receive transactional and administrative communications related to your account and activity on the Platform, including confirmations, reminders, and policy updates.

4.2 SMS Consent & Mobile Number Use

Chef & Sous does not sell, rent, or share users’ mobile numbers or personal data for marketing purposes. SMS consent is used solely for account verification and transactional notifications.

 

4.3 Account Responsibility

 

You are solely responsible for all activities conducted through your account, whether by you or anyone using your credentials. Chef & Sous is not liable for any loss, damage, or unauthorized charges arising from your failure to maintain the confidentiality of your account information. Users are prohibited from sharing, transferring, or selling their account access to any other person or entity.

 

4.4 Account Suspension and Termination

 

We may suspend, limit, or terminate your account or access to the Service, with or without notice, for any reason, including but not limited to: (a) violation of these Terms or other applicable policies; (b) fraudulent, abusive, or illegal activity; (c) misuse of the Platform, including attempts to circumvent bookings or payments; (d) extended periods of inactivity; or (e) requests or orders by law enforcement or regulatory authorities. Upon suspension or termination, you remain responsible for any outstanding obligations incurred prior to termination, and Chef & Sous reserves the right to withhold or cancel upcoming Sessions, payments, or promotional credits as appropriate.

 

5. PLATFORM DESCRIPTION AND SERVICES

 

5.1 Marketplace Platform

 

Chef & Sous operates as a two-sided online marketplace connecting Sous seeking a Session with Chefs who offer them. Through the Platform, Users can discover Chefs, view profiles and offerings, schedule and book Sessions, communicate securely, exchange ratings and reviews, and process payments for confirmed Bookings. Chef & Sous provides the technology, tools, and facilitation necessary to enable these interactions but does not provide the cooking services directly.

 

5.2 Platform Role

 

IMPORTANT: CHEF & SOUS IS A PLATFORM ONLY. We do not: (a) employ, engage, or classify Chefs as employees, agents, or representatives of Chef & Sous; (b) supervise, direct, control, or monitor the work, performance, or conduct of any Chef or Sous during a Session; (c) guarantee the quality, safety, legality, or outcomes of any Session or service offered by a Chef; (d) verify or warrant the accuracy or completeness of information provided by any User; (e) act as an agent, broker, or insurer for any User; or (f) become a party to any contract or agreement between a Sous and a Chef.

All Bookings are made directly between Sous and Chefs. Each Chef is solely responsible for the services they provide, including compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards. 

 

5.3 No Endorsement

 

Chef & Sous does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee any User, Chef, Session, or cooking service offered through the Platform. Any ratings, reviews, verification badges, or similar indicators displayed on the Platform are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement or guarantee of quality, capability, or suitability. Users are solely responsible for evaluating and selecting the Chefs or Sessions that best meet their needs.

5.4 Platform Tools and Availability

Chef & Sous provides a variety of online tools and features designed to support discovery, communication, scheduling, and participation in live cooking Sessions. These tools may include, but are not limited to, Chef profiles, search and filter functions, secure messaging, video conferencing, booking management, payment processing, review and feedback systems, and digital Credits or Promotional Campaigns.

 

We strive to maintain reliable access to the Platform and its features; however, we do not guarantee that the Service will be uninterrupted, error-free, or available at all times. Temporary interruptions may occur due to maintenance, upgrades, system failures, or circumstances beyond our control. Chef & Sous reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any aspect of the Service at any time, with or without notice.

 

Users are responsible for obtaining and maintaining all necessary devices, software, and internet connections required to access and use the Platform. Chef & Sous is not responsible for any technical limitations, delays, or performance issues caused by third-party equipment, networks, or providers.

 

5.5 Beta Features and Updates

 

From time to time, Chef & Sous may make new or experimental features, tools, or enhancements available to certain Users on a trial or “beta” basis (“Beta Features”). Beta Features may be offered for limited periods, may not operate as intended, and may be modified, suspended, or discontinued at any time without notice. Beta Features are provided “as is” and without any warranties of any kind, whether express or implied.

Chef & Sous reserves the right to update, improve, or change any aspect of the Platform or Service at any time, including the user interface, functionality, or available tools. Continued use of the Platform following the release of such updates constitutes acceptance of those modifications.

 

6. USER RESPONSIBILITIES

 

6.1 Sous Responsibilities

 

Sous agrees to:

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• provide accurate and complete information when creating a Booking, including any dietary restrictions, ingredient needs, or kitchen setup details that may affect a Session;
   

• communicate respectfully and promptly with Chefs before and during Sessions;
   

• attend Sessions on time and in the location and manner agreed upon;
   

• pay all fees, taxes, and charges associated with confirmed Bookings through the Platform;
   

• refrain from using Session content for commercial purposes without permission; and
   

• comply with all applicable laws, health, and safety standards when participating in Sessions.
   

Sous are solely responsible for ensuring they have the necessary equipment, internet connection, and environment suitable for conducting a live cooking Session.

 

6.2 Chef Responsibilities

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Chefs agree to:

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• provide accurate and up-to-date information about their culinary expertise, qualifications, and availability;
   

• offer honest and clearly described Session offerings, including pricing, duration, and content;
   

• conduct Sessions in a professional, courteous, and workmanlike manner consistent with industry standards;
   

• comply with all health, safety, and food-handling regulations relevant to their location and services;
   

• honor pricing, scheduling, and commitments outlined in accepted Bookings; and
   

• communicate promptly with Sous regarding scheduling, Session details, and any changes.
   

Chefs are independent contractors and are solely responsible for the quality and legality of their services, their own tax obligations, and any liabilities arising from their professional conduct.

 

6.3 Prohibited Conduct

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All Users agree not to:

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• provide false, misleading, or incomplete information;
   

• impersonate any person or entity, or misrepresent their affiliation with Chef & Sous;
   

• harass, abuse, threaten, or intimidate other Users;
   

• post or transmit Content that is unlawful, defamatory, obscene, or infringes on intellectual property rights;
   

• attempt to circumvent the Platform, including by soliciting or accepting payments outside the Platform;
   

• record or distribute any Session without express consent from all participants;
   

• use the Platform for any unlawful purpose or in violation of applicable laws or regulations;
   

• interfere with or disrupt the Service, servers, or security features of the Platform;
   

• collect or harvest personal data from other Users without consent;
   

• use automated scripts, bots, or scraping tools to extract data or interact with the Platform; or
   

• reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble any portion of the Service.
   

Violations of this section may result in suspension or termination of your account, removal of Content, and potential legal action.

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7. CREDIT SYSTEM

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7.1 Credit Purchases

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Sous may purchase Credits through the Platform using accepted payment methods. The price and value of Credits will be displayed at the time of purchase and may change at any time without prior notice. All purchases are final unless otherwise required by law.

 

7.2 Credit Usage

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Credits may be applied toward eligible Bookings, Sessions, or other Platform features made available by Chef & Sous. Credits cannot be used outside the Platform, combined with other User accounts, or exchanged for cash or other consideration. 

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7.3 Promotional Credits and Campaigns 

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Chef & Sous may, from time to time, issue promotional or bonus Credits as part of a Promotional Campaign, such as referral programs, new user incentives, or event-based promotions. These Credits may be subject to additional terms and conditions, including eligibility restrictions, expiration dates, or usage limits, as specified at the time of issuance.

 

7.4 Credit Expansion and Forfeiture

 

Unless otherwise stated, Credits expire twelve (12) months from the date of issuance or the date of last activity on the User’s account, whichever is later. Expired or forfeited Credits have no cash value and cannot be reinstated.

 

7.5 Non-Transferability and Refunds

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Credits are non-transferable, non-refundable, and have no cash or monetary value. They may not be sold, traded, or transferred to other Users. Credits will be automatically forfeited if a User’s account is terminated or suspended due to violation of these Terms.

 

7.6 Modification of Credit Policies

 

Chef & Sous reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue the Credit system, or any related policies, at any time. Any such changes will not retroactively affect previously purchased Credits, except as required by law.

 

8. SUBSCRIPTION TIERS AND FEES

 

8.1 Chef Subscription Plans

 

Chef & Sous may offer optional subscription plans (“Chef Plans”) that provide Chefs with enhanced features, such as increased profile visibility, access to premium marketing tools, analytics, or reduced Platform Fees. Details of available plans, including included benefits and pricing, will be displayed on the Platform and may be updated from time to time.

Participation in any Chef Plan is voluntary and does not affect a Chef’s classification as an independent contractor.

 

8.2 Billing and Payment

 

Sous are charged the total amount displayed at checkout for each Booking (the “Total Fee”), which includes: (a) the Chef’s listed Session price (“Chef Fee”); and (b) a service or booking fee charged by Chef & Sous for use of the Platform and payment processing (the “Platform Fee”). The Platform Fee is non-refundable except as required by law or expressly stated in Chef & Sous’s refund policy.

 

Chef & Sous (or its third-party payment processor) will collect the Total Fee from the Sous at the time the Booking is confirmed. After the Session has been completed, Chef & Sous will remit the Chef Fee to the applicable Chef, less a commission percentage retained by Chef & Sous as a facilitation fee (the “Commission”). The Commission rate will be disclosed to the Chef prior to listing a Session and may vary based on promotional campaigns, subscription status, or other factors communicated in advance.

 

All payments will be processed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise specified. By completing a Booking or using the Platform, you authorize Chef & Sous (and its third-party payment processor) to charge your designated payment method for all applicable amounts. Chef & Sous reserves the right to adjust its Platform Fee or Commission upon reasonable notice, which may be provided by email or through the Platform. Continued use of the Service after any fee change constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

 

8.3 Cancellation and Refund Policy

 

You may cancel your subscription at any time through your account settings. Cancellation takes effect at the end of the current billing period, and you will retain access to your plan benefits until that time. No refunds or partial-month credits will be issued for early cancellation.

 

8.4 Modifications or Termination

 

Chef & Sous reserves the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any subscription plan at its discretion. If a plan is discontinued, affected Chefs will receive notice and a prorated refund for any unused, prepaid portion of the subscription term, where required by law.

 

9. PAYMENT PROCESSING

 

9.1 Stripe Integration

 

All payments and payouts on the Platform are facilitated by Stripe, Inc. (“Stripe”). By using the Platform’s payment features, you agree to be bound by Stripe’s Terms and Privacy Policy, which govern your use of Stripe’s services. Chef & Sous is not a bank, money transmitter, or payment institution and does not hold or control User funds at any time.

 

9.2 Stripe Connect for Chefs

 

Chefs who wish to receive payments through the Platform must: (a) create and maintain an active Stripe Connect Standard Account; (b) comply with all Stripe terms and conditions; (c) provide accurate and up-to-date identity, banking, and tax information; and (d) authorize Chef & Sous and Stripe to process and disburse payments related to Bookings and Sessions.

 

Failure to maintain a valid Stripe account may result in suspension or delay of payouts. Chef & Sous does not control the timing or processing of Stripe transactions and is not responsible for errors, holds, or rejections caused by Stripe.

 

9.3 Payment Flow and Responsibilities

 

When a Sous makes a payment for a Booking, the payment is processed directly through Stripe and distributed in accordance with Stripe’s payout process. Chef & Sous may collect applicable Platform Fees or transaction fees at the time of payment processing.

Chef & Sous does not act as a payment intermediary, escrow agent, or guarantor of any payment between Users. All payment disputes or chargebacks must be resolved directly through Stripe or between the Sous and Chef, as applicable.

 

9.4 Platform Fees

 

Refunds, credits, or adjustments—if applicable—are governed by the Chef & Sous Cancellation and Refund Policy, which is incorporated by reference into these Terms. That policy specifies the conditions under which refunds may be issued, the applicable timelines, and any associated fees. Except as expressly provided in that policy or required by law, all payments and Platform Fees are non-refundable.

 

Chef & Sous may charge a Platform Fee to cover the cost of operating the Service, facilitating Bookings, providing communication tools, and enabling secure payment processing. The applicable Platform Fee, if any, will be clearly disclosed before a Booking is confirmed. Platform Fees are non-refundable once a Booking is completed, except as otherwise required by law or explicitly stated in our Cancellation and Refund Policy.

 

9.5 Taxes

 

Chefs are solely responsible for determining and remitting any applicable taxes arising from their income through the Platform, including sales, use, value-added (VAT), or similar taxes. Chef & Sous may collect and remit taxes when required by applicable law but otherwise assumes no responsibility for a Chef’s tax obligations.

 

9.6 Off-Platform Payments Prohibited

 

All payments for Bookings and Sessions must be made through the Platform using the payment methods supported by Chef & Sous. Users are strictly prohibited from arranging, soliciting, or accepting payment for any Session or related service outside the Platform.

Engaging in off-Platform payment activity violates these Terms and may result in immediate suspension or termination of your account. Chef & Sous has no responsibility or liability for any payment, dispute, loss, or misconduct arising from transactions made outside the Platform.

 

10.1 Booking Requests

 

Sous may browse Chef profiles, view Session offerings, and submit Booking requests through the Platform. When submitting a Booking, Sous must provide accurate information regarding the desired date, time, Session type, and any relevant details such as ingredients, dietary preferences, or cooking environment.

 

10.2 Booking Confirmation

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A Booking becomes confirmed once a Chef accepts the request through the Platform and payment is successfully processed. At that point, a direct contract is formed between the Sous and the Chef for the scheduled Session. Chef & Sous is not a party to this contract and does not control, supervise, or guarantee the performance of either party.

 

10.3 Accuracy of Session Information

 

Chefs represent and warrant that all Session listings, descriptions, prices, and availability they publish are accurate, complete, and not misleading. Sous represent and warrant that all information they provide in connection with a Booking (including contact details, preferences, and scheduling information) is accurate and truthful.

 

10.4 Session Coordination

 

Chefs and Sous are responsible for coordinating any Session-specific logistics, including ingredient preparation, technical setup, and punctual attendance at the agreed time. All communication related to Bookings or Sessions must occur through the Platform’s messaging tools.

 

10.5 No Off-Platform Bookings

 

All Bookings must be made and paid for through the Platform. Users are strictly prohibited from arranging or accepting Sessions or payments outside the Platform. Doing so violates these Terms and may result in account suspension or termination. Chef & Sous assumes no responsibility or liability for any arrangement made outside the Platform.

 

10.6 Cancellations and Changes

 

Sous and Chefs may cancel or reschedule Sessions in accordance with Chef & Sous Cancellation and Refund Policy, which outlines the notice periods, refund eligibility, and fees that may apply. Once a Session has started, payments are considered final except as expressly stated in that policy.

 

11. CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
 

11.1 Direct Relationship Between Users

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When a Sous completes a Booking that is accepted by a Chef, a direct agreement is formed between those two parties for the scheduled Session. Chef & Sous is not a party to that agreement and does not supervise, guarantee, or assume responsibility for the conduct, performance, or outcome of any Session.

Each Chef is an independent contractor, and nothing in these Terms shall be construed to create a partnership, joint venture, employment, or agency relationship between Chef & Sous and any User.

11.2 User Agreements Control

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Any terms, conditions, or agreements separately negotiated between a Sous and a Chef, such as the scope of the Session, ingredients, or Session duration, govern their relationship for that Booking. In the event of a conflict between the terms agreed upon by the Sous and Chef and these Terms, the User agreement controls only as to the specific Session, while these Terms continue to govern each party’s access to and use of the Platform.

11.3 Platform Independence

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Chef & Sous does not: (a) control or direct the performance of any Session; (b) guarantee the availability or performance of any User; (c) provide insurance, certification, or oversight of any Chef or Sous; or (d) act as an agent, broker, or guarantor for any party.

 

All Sous acknowledge that Chef & Sous provides the Service solely as a technology platform facilitating connections and payments between Sous and Chefs.
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12. VERIFICATION SERVICES
 

12.1 Identity Verification
 

Chef & Sous may use third-party verification services to confirm the identity of Users for security, fraud prevention, and trust-building purposes. By registering for and using the Service, you consent to such verification processes and authorize Chef & Sous to share the necessary information (such as your name, date of birth, phone number, or identification documents) with its verification providers in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
 

Verification may be required to access certain features of the Platform, including the ability to create or accept Bookings.
 

12.2 Chef Verification Badges
 

Chef & Sous maintains a tiered Chef classification and verification system to help Sous understand a Chef’s general experience level and verification status. Each Chef profile may display:
 

1. Chef Tier. Each Chef will be designated as one of the following tiers based on information provided to Chef & Sous and any applicable review:
    

   • Home Chef – Generally a home cook with demonstrated personal or informal cooking experience.
      

   • Advanced Chef – Generally a Chef with substantial hands-on experience, specialized skills, or informal training beyond a typical home cook.
      

   • Professional Chef – Generally a Chef with formal culinary education, professional kitchen or instructional experience, or equivalent credentials.
      

   • Master Chef – Generally a Chef with extensive professional or teaching experience, leadership roles, recognized achievements, or industry-recognized credentials as determined by Chef & Sous.
      

1. Verification Check Marks. In addition to the tier label, Chef & Sous may display a colored check mark indicating the Chef’s current verification status:
    

1. • Grey Check Mark (Pending/Unverified) – Indicates that the Chef has created a profile and may have submitted information or documentation, but Chef & Sous has not completed its verification review.

   • Blue Check Mark (Verified) – Indicates that Chef & Sous has completed its verification review of the Chef’s identity and/or credentials, based on documentation, references, or other materials submitted by the Chef.
      

Professional and Master tier designations are intended for Chefs who have successfully completed verification and maintain a blue check mark. Chef & Sous may require verification (or re-verification) as a condition for listing or continuing to list a Chef as Professional or Master, and may adjust or remove a Chef’s tier designation or check mark status at any time if verification cannot be completed, lapses, or is otherwise in doubt.

 

Verification may include identity checks, credential or certification review, references, portfolio review, and other vetting measures conducted by Chef & Sous or its third-party providers. Display of a tier label or check mark only reflects that certain checks were completed at a point in time and does not constitute a guarantee of any particular skill, outcome, or performance. Chef & Sous may modify tier criteria, verification processes, or visual indicators (including colors and icons) from time to time to maintain platform integrity

and user trust.

 

12.3 Verification Limitations

 

Verification badges and profile indicators are provided for informational purposes only. They do not: (a) guarantee a Chef’s skill, performance, or suitability for a Session; (b) confirm compliance with health, food safety, or licensing requirements; (c) constitute an endorsement, warranty, or recommendation by Chef & Sous; or (d) guarantee that credentials or information remain current or valid after verification.

 

12.4 User Responsibility

 

All Users are solely responsible for conducting their own due diligence before booking or providing any Session. Users should use discretion when selecting Chefs and are encouraged to review profiles, ratings, and reviews. Chefs remain responsible for maintaining accurate, lawful, and up-to-date information and for complying with all applicable licensing, tax, and business requirements.

 

13. MESSAGING AND COMMUNICATION

 

13.1 In-Platform Messaging and Video Tools

 

Chef & Sous provides secure in-platform messaging and video communication tools to facilitate coordination between Sous and Chefs before, during, and after Sessions. By using these tools, you acknowledge and agree that:
 

• Chef & Sous may, consistent with applicable law, monitor or review communications for safety, quality assurance, and compliance with these Terms;
   

• message records may be stored and retained as required by law or for legitimate business purposes, including dispute resolution; and
   

• aggregated or anonymized message data may be used to improve the Service, such as enhancing safety systems or user experience.
   

Chef & Sous does not review or monitor all communications and is not responsible for the content of messages exchanged between Users.

13.2 Communication Standards

 

All Users agree to communicate through the Platform in a respectful, professional, and lawful manner. You agree not to:
 

• harass, intimidate, threaten, or discriminate against other Users;
   

• use obscene, defamatory, or abusive language;
   

• share personal contact information (such as phone numbers, email addresses, or social media handles) before a Booking is confirmed;
   

• use messaging tools for unrelated or commercial purposes; or
   

• exchange any content or media that violates these Terms or applicable law.

Violation of these standards may result in suspension or termination of your account.

 

13.3 No Circumvention of the Platform
 

Users may not use the Platform’s messaging, video, or communication tools to:
 

• solicit, accept, or encourage off-platform payments or Bookings to avoid Platform Fees;
   

• share personal or contact information for the purpose of conducting off-platform Sessions; or
   

• engage in any conduct intended to circumvent the Platform or these Terms.
   

Any attempt to bypass the Platform’s payment or booking system is a material breach of these Terms and may result in account termination and legal action.
 

14. RATINGS AND REVIEWS
 

14.1 Review System
 

After a Session is completed, the Sous who booked and attended the Session may leave a rating and written review describing their experience with the Chef. Reviews help maintain accountability, improve the quality of the Platform, and assist other Sous in making informed booking decisions.

 

Chefs may view reviews received on their profiles Chef & Sous reserves the right to remove or edit reviews that violate its content guidelines, contain false or misleading information, or otherwise breach this Agreement.

 

14.2 Review Requirements

 

All reviews must be:
 

• honest, accurate, and based on personal experience with the specific Session;
   

• relevant to the Chef, Sous, or Session in question;
   

• respectful and free from profanity, hate speech, harassment, or discriminatory Content; and
   

• independent, meaning they are not written in exchange for any compensation, incentive, or favor.
   

Chef & Sous reserves the right, but not the obligation, to remove or edit reviews that violate these standards or applicable law.
 

14.3 Review Moderation and Permanence
 

Reviews posted directly through the Platform are generally permanent and cannot be altered or deleted by Users once submitted. However, Chef & Sous reserves the right to: (a) remove or redact reviews that violate these Terms or applicable law; (b) comply with valid court orders or legal requirements; or (c) correct or remove reviews posted in error or as part of fraudulent or spam activity.

 

14.4 No Compensation or Manipulation

 

Users may not offer, solicit, or accept any form of compensation, incentive, discount, or favor in exchange for writing, modifying, or removing a review. Attempts to manipulate the rating system in any manner are strictly prohibited and may result in suspension or termination of the User’s account.

 

15. USER CONTENT

 

15.1 User-Provided Content

Users may upload, post, transmit, or display Content on or through the Platform, including but not limited to recipes, photos, videos, written descriptions, messages, reviews, and other materials related to Sessions. All Content must comply with these Terms and applicable law.

15.2 Ownership and Rights

 

Users retain full ownership of their Content. By posting or sharing Content on or through the Platform, you represent and warrant that: (a) you own or have the necessary rights and permissions to post such Content; (b) your Content does not infringe or violate any third-party rights, including copyright, trademark, or privacy rights; and (c) your Content complies with these Terms and all applicable laws and regulations.

 

15.3 License to Chef & Sous

 

By uploading, posting, or displaying Content through the Service, you grant Chef & Sous a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free, transferable, and sublicensable license to use, host, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, distribute, display, and otherwise utilize your Content solely for purposes of operating, maintaining, promoting, and improving the Service.

This includes the right to use screenshots, excerpts, or media from your Content (such as User profiles, recipes, or Session imagery) for marketing, educational, or safety purposes.

Chef & Sous does not claim ownership of your Content and will not sell or license it to third parties outside the Platform without your consent.

 

15.4 Content Standards

 

User Content must not:
 

• violate any applicable law or regulation;
   

• infringe upon any third-party intellectual property or privacy rights;
   

• contain viruses, malware, or malicious code;
   

• include false, misleading, or deceptive information;
   

• disclose personal or confidential information of others without consent; or
   

• depict or promote illegal activity, harassment, hate speech, or violence.
   

15.5 Content Monitoring and Removal
 

Chef & Sous reserves the right, but not the obligation, to review, monitor, or remove any Content that, in its sole discretion, violates these Terms, applicable law, or the spirit of the Platform community. Content may also be removed to protect safety, respond to legal requests, or enforce intellectual property rights.

 

15.6 Session Recordings (if applicable)

 

If Chef & Sous enables Session recording features, you will be notified before a Session begins. By participating, you consent to the recording for quality, safety, or training purposes. Recordings remain the property of Chef & Sous but will not be shared publicly without participant consent, except as required by law.

 

16. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

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16.1 Ownership of the Platform and Service

 

The Service, including all software, source code, designs, text, graphics, logos, button icons, images, video interfaces, features, and other Content (excluding Chef Content), is the exclusive property of Chef & Sous or its affiliates, partners, or licensors.

 

All elements of the Service are protected by copyright, trademark, trade dress, patent, and other intellectual property laws in the United States and internationally.

 

Certain names, logos, and brands displayed on the Platform may be the property of third parties. Any use of third-party trademarks or brand references is for identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement, sponsorship, or affiliation.

 

16.2 Limited User License

 

Subject to these Terms, Chef & Sous grants you a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, non-sublicensable, revocable license to access and use the Service for your personal, non-commercial use and solely for its intended purpose—facilitating discovery, scheduling, communication, and payment for Sessions conducted through the Platform.
 

This license does not include any right to:
 

• reproduce, redistribute, sell, lease, or publicly display any portion of the Service;
   

• modify or create derivative works of the Platform or its Content; or
   

• use any part of the Service for data mining, scraping, or other unauthorized purposes.

Chef & Sous reserves all rights not expressly granted herein.

16.3 Restrictions

You may not:

• copy, reproduce, alter, or distribute any portion of the Service without prior written consent;
   

• reverse engineer, decompile, or attempt to extract the source code of any software used on the Platform;
   

• remove, obscure, or alter any proprietary notices, marks, or attributions;
   

• use any Chef & Sous trademarks, service marks, or logos without express written authorization; or
   

• frame, mirror, or link to the Service in a way that misrepresents your affiliation with Chef & Sous.
   

Unauthorized use of the Platform or its Content may result in legal action and termination of your account.

 

16.4 Feedback and Suggestions

 

If you provide Chef & Sous with any feedback, suggestions, improvements, or ideas related to the Service (“Feedback”), you agree that such Feedback is provided voluntarily and without expectation of compensation.

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You hereby grant Chef & Sous a perpetual, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free, and sublicensable license to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, and exploit such Feedback for any purpose, including improving or developing the Service, without acknowledgment or attribution.

ese Terms.