Summary
- Buffets cost $25–60 (US) or £18–45 (UK) per head.
- Plated three-course service runs $70–150 or £50–110 per head.
- Staff, drinks, hire and travel are commonly quoted separately.
- Service style and headcount move the total far more than the menu.
- Expect a 20–30% deposit and a fixed final-numbers deadline.
Quick answer
Catering typically costs $25–60 per person in the US and £18–45 per person in the UK for a buffet, and $60–150 or £45–110 per person for a plated three-course dinner with service. Weddings sit at the top of the range because of staffing and timing.
Typical 2026 prices per head
| Service style | US | UK |
|---|---|---|
| Sandwich and finger buffet | $18–35 | £12–25 |
| Hot fork buffet | $30–55 | £20–38 |
| BBQ or street food | $30–60 | £22–42 |
| Two-course plated meal | $50–95 | £35–70 |
| Three-course plated, with service | $70–150 | £50–110 |
| Canapé reception (6–8 pieces) | $25–50 | £18–38 |
| Wedding breakfast, full service | $90–200 | £65–150 |
| Corporate breakfast / working lunch | $15–35 | £10–25 |
What is usually extra
How to bring the cost down
What a good quote includes
Summary
Budget £18–45 or $25–60 per head for a buffet and £50–110 or $70–150 for plated dinner service. Compare quotes on the same menu, guest count and staffing — service style, not food cost, is what moves the total.
Frequently asked questions
catering
events
wedding
cost per person