Catering Quantity Estimator
Calculate food quantities for your event.
Catering Quantity Estimator
How much food for your buffet
Formula
6-8 oz protein, 4 oz sides per guestHow to Use
- 1Enter guest count — Input the number of guests who will be eating.
- 2Select meal style — Choose buffet, plated, or cocktail/appetizer-only style.
- 3Choose menu items — Select which courses you are serving (appetizers, main, sides, dessert).
- 4Get quantities — See total pounds/pieces needed for each food item.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much food per person for a wedding?
Plan 1 lb of food total per person (6 oz protein, 4 oz starch, 4 oz vegetables, 2 oz salad). Add 8-10 appetizer pieces per person for cocktail hour.
Buffet vs plated — how much more food?
Buffets require 15-20% more food than plated dinners because guests tend to take more. Plan accordingly.
How many appetizers per person?
8-10 pieces for a cocktail hour before dinner. For cocktail-only receptions, plan 12-15 pieces per person.
Should I order extra food?
Yes, order 5-10% extra. Better to have leftovers than run short. Most caterers build this buffer into their per-person pricing.