How to Say "chef" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “chef” is “cocinero” — use 'cocinero' for any professional cook, especially when referring to the cook in a restaurant without necessarily implying they are in charge..
cocinero
/koh-see-NEH-roh//ko.siˈne.ɾo/
Examples
El cocinero de este restaurante es famoso por sus postres.
The cook at this restaurant is famous for his desserts.
Mi tío Juan es un cocinero aficionado, siempre hace barbacoas geniales.
My Uncle Juan is an amateur cook; he always makes great barbecues.
Gender Change for Jobs
To talk about a female cook, you change the ending to '-a': 'cocinera'. This easy pattern applies to many job titles ending in '-o'.
Confusing the Person and the Place
Mistake: “Usar 'cocina' para referirse al chef. (Using 'cocina' to refer to the chef.)”
Correction: 'Cocina' means 'kitchen' or 'cuisine' (the food style). Use 'cocinero' for the person.
chef
/cheff//ˈtʃef/
Examples
El chef preparó un plato delicioso con mariscos frescos.
The chef prepared a delicious dish with fresh seafood.
Mi hermana es chef en un restaurante francés muy famoso.
My sister is a chef at a very famous French restaurant.
La chef ejecutiva supervisa toda la cocina.
The executive chef oversees the entire kitchen.
Masculine Noun Form
Even though 'chef' is often used for both men and women, the default article in Spanish is usually 'el' (el chef). However, it is very common and correct to say 'la chef' when referring to a woman.
Confusing Chef and Cocinero
Mistake: “Using 'cocinero' when referring to a highly acclaimed or professional 'chef'.”
Correction: While 'cocinero' means 'cook,' 'chef' specifically implies a professional who manages a kitchen or creates elaborate dishes. They are not always interchangeable in Spanish culture.
Cocinar vs. Chef
Related Translations
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