How Much Is Catering for 100 People?

Caterers in South Delhi are a common request for weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, or family reunions. The total cost can vary wildly—from $1,500 to $15,000 or more—depending on food style, service level, location, and extras. Below, I’ll break it down realistically with 2025 pricing trends so you can budget accurately.

The Three Main Cost Influencers
The final bill for your event catering is usually driven by three core factors:

1. The Menu: Veg vs. Non-Veg vs. Premium Cuisine
Vegetarian Menu: Generally the most budget-friendly option. A basic Indian vegetarian menu (including appetizers, main courses, and simple desserts) often starts from ₹400 to ₹500 per plate.

Non-Vegetarian Menu: Adding meat dishes will increase the cost. Expect to pay in the range of ₹600 to ₹1,500 per plate, offering dishes like butter chicken, biryani, or mutton curry.

Premium/Multi-Cuisine: If you opt for elaborate international fare like specialty Continental, Asian, or live cooking stations (e.g., pasta, sushi), the price can easily exceed ₹1,000 per plate.

2. Service Style: Buffet vs. Plated
The method of serving food affects the staffing and presentation costs.

Buffet Style: This is the most cost-efficient option. Guests serve themselves, which requires fewer service staff. A buffet for 100 guests often ranges from ₹400 to ₹800 per plate.

Plated Service (Sit-Down): This is a premium and formal option. It requires a larger team of servers and a more elaborate setup (linens, glassware, cutlery). Expect prices to start upwards of ₹1,200 per person.

3. Location and Caterer Reputation
Major Cities vs. Smaller Towns: Catering is generally more expensive in metropolitan areas like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore due to higher operating costs.

Caterer Profile: A highly reputed or luxury caterer with years of experience and a sophisticated portfolio will naturally charge significantly more than a local, neighborhood vendor.

Key Add-Ons That Increase the Price
When requesting a quote, make sure you clarify if the following are included, as they can significantly raise the final price:

Live Food Counters: Specialty stations like chaat, kebabs, or waffle bars often add an extra ₹50 to ₹200 per guest.

Beverage Packages: Adding non-alcoholic drinks (juices, sodas) or a full bar service (with staff and permits) will be an additional cost.

Rentals: Many caterers include basic cutlery and linens, but special glassware, themed serving dishes, or extra furniture might be charged separately.

Staffing & Service Fees: The cost of service staff, setup, and cleanup is sometimes listed as a separate fee or service charge.

Would you like me to find some tips on how to save money on catering for 100 guests?