About the Catering Quantity Calculator

Ordering the right amount of food for an event prevents both waste and empty plates. This calculator applies industry per-guest serving standards — roughly 4–5 oz of protein, 3 cups of sides, and 3–8 appetizer pieces per person depending on meal style — and scales them to your guest count and event length.

Adjusting for Your Event

Cocktail receptions skew heavy on appetizers (6–8 pieces per guest); plated dinners skew heavy on protein. Longer events need more drinks and a 10% bump on appetizers. When in doubt, add 10–15% for seconds and unexpected guests.