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How Much Does Catering for 100 Cost? A Breakdown of Pricing for Different Event Types

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  • Post last modified:April 29, 2023
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If you’re planning an event, whether it’s a corporate gathering or a wedding celebration, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the right catering service. However, figuring out how much it will cost can be a daunting task, especially when you’re trying to feed a large group of people. The cost of catering can vary depending on several factors, including the type of food, event type, and equipment needed.

At Tasty Table Catering, located in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate the world of catering costs. That’s why we’re here to help you break down everything that goes into catering your event. Let’s start with the base price for off-premise drop-off catering. This type of catering is comparable to dining at a restaurant, with an additional delivery fee of 15-20%. So, on average, you can expect to spend around $25-$30 per person for high-quality drop-off catering.

chef placing food on the table: catering. tasty table catering

It’s important to note that larger events like weddings and corporate gatherings may incur additional costs beyond the base price. These events often require more equipment and professional staff, such as bartenders and servers, which can increase the overall cost. Our team at Tasty Table Catering will work with you to create a customized catering package that fits your needs and budget, no matter the size or type of your event.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that can affect catering costs and provide estimates for different event types. We’ll also discuss additional costs to consider and provide tips for planning a successful catered event. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a grand celebration, Tasty Table Catering is here to help you make it a success.

Factors that Affect Catering Costs

When it comes to catering costs, there are several factors to consider that can impact the final price. Here are some of the key factors that can affect catering costs:

Type of Food and Menu Selection

The type of food you choose and the menu selection can have a big impact on the overall cost of catering. Some menu items and ingredients are more expensive than others, so it’s important to choose items that fit within your budget. At Tasty Table Catering, we offer a wide range of menu options to fit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or gourmet cuisine, we have options to satisfy any craving.

Event Type and Venue

The type of event you’re hosting and the venue you choose can also impact catering costs. For example, weddings often require more equipment and staff than corporate events or private parties, which can drive up the cost. Similarly, if you’re hosting an event at a venue that doesn’t have a kitchen or catering facilities, you may need to rent additional equipment, which can add to the overall cost.

Equipment and Staff Needed

The equipment and staff needed for your event can also impact the final cost of catering. For example, if you’re hosting a plated dinner, you’ll need servers to bring the food to each table, which will add to the cost. Similarly, if you’re hosting a cocktail party, you may need bartenders to serve drinks, which will also add to the cost. At Tasty Table Catering, we offer a variety of service options to fit your needs and budget, from drop-off catering to full-service catering with professional staff.

Service Type

The type of catering service you choose can also impact the cost. Drop-off catering is typically the most affordable option, as it doesn’t require additional staff or equipment. Buffet-style catering can be a bit more expensive, as it requires staff to set up and maintain the buffet line. Plated dinners are typically the most expensive option, as they require servers to bring the food to each table.

average catering cost for 100

In addition to these factors, there may be additional costs to consider, such as rental fees for tables and chairs, linens, and decorations. It’s important to work with your catering provider to create a customized package that fits your needs and budget.

At Tasty Table Catering, we’re here to help you navigate the world of catering costs and create a customized package that fits your needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more about our catering services and to schedule a consultation with our team.

Estimating Catering Costs for Different Event Types

When it comes to catering, the cost can vary greatly depending on the type of event you’re hosting. Here are some estimates for different types of events:

  1. Off-Premise Drop-Off Catering
    If you’re planning a small gathering, such as a business meeting or family party, off-premise drop-off catering can be a great option. This type of catering involves the caterer preparing the food in their own kitchen and delivering it to your event location. The cost for this type of catering is usually comparable to dining at a restaurant, plus a delivery fee of 15-20%. For off-premise drop-off catering, you can expect to spend around $25-$30 per person.
  2. Special Events with Full-Service Catering
    For larger events, such as corporate events or fundraising galas, full-service catering is often the way to go. With full-service catering, the caterer will provide everything from the food to the equipment and staff needed to serve your guests. The cost for full-service catering can range from $50-$75 per person, depending on the menu selection, event type, and other factors.
  3. Weddings
    Weddings are often the most expensive type of event to cater, as they require a lot of additional services and equipment. In addition to the food and staff, weddings often require fancy linens, utensils, and equipment like chafers to keep the food warm. Many venues also require professional staff like bartenders and servers, which are paid hourly. Liquor liability insurance and other business costs can also add to the overall cost. For a catered wedding, the starting price is usually around $85 per person.
wedding catering: Bride and groom getting served their food by the caterers

It’s important to keep in mind that these estimates are just that – estimates. The final cost of your catering will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of food you choose, the venue, and the number of guests. Always be sure to discuss your needs and budget with your caterer to get a more accurate estimate.

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs for different event types:

Event TypeEstimated Cost per Person
Off-Premise Drop-Off Catering$25-$40
Special Events with Full-Service$50-$75
WeddingsStarting at $85

If you’re in the Philadelphia area and looking for a caterer for your next event, check out Tasty Table Catering’s menus or give them a call at 610-251-0265 to speak with their catering staff about placing an order.

Additional Costs to Consider

While the base price of catering may seem reasonable, it’s important to consider additional costs that may be necessary for a successful event. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

  1. Add-ons such as linens, utensils, and chafers: Depending on the type of event, you may need to rent or purchase additional items to ensure that your guests have everything they need. Fancy linens, utensils, and chafers can add to the overall cost of your catering.
  2. Professional staff and liquor liability insurance: Depending on the venue and event type, you may need to hire professional staff such as bartenders and servers. Additionally, you may need to purchase liquor liability insurance to protect yourself in case of any accidents.
  3. Business costs: Catering companies have a variety of overhead costs that they must account for when pricing their services. These costs can include equipment maintenance, office rent, and employee salaries.

By taking these additional costs into consideration, you can get a more accurate estimate of what your catering will actually cost. Be sure to communicate with your caterer about all the necessary details to ensure that there are no surprises on the day of your event.

Conclusion

When it comes to estimating catering costs for your next event, it’s important to consider several factors such as the type of food, event type, equipment, and staff needed. Off-premise drop-off catering is a great option for those on a budget, with prices ranging from $25-$30 per person. However, for larger events such as weddings or special events with full-service catering, costs can range from $50-$75 per person or even higher due to additional add-ons and professional staff needed. It’s essential to take these costs into account when planning your budget.

At Tasty Table Catering, we offer a wide range of catering services to meet your needs, from off-premise drop-off catering to full-service catering for weddings and special events. Our team of experienced professionals will work with you to create a custom menu that fits your taste and budget. Contact us today at 610-251-0265 or email us at info@tastytablecatering.com to start planning your next event.