When planning an event in India, one of the most important elements to budget for is catering. Whether it’s a wedding, house party, or corporate meeting, food plays a central role—and costs can vary widely based on several factors.
Here’s an updated guide to catering service prices in India (2025) to help you plan better:
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💸 1. Per Plate Cost by Event Type
Event Type Price Range (per person)
House Party ₹500 – ₹1,200
Wedding Function ₹1,000 – ₹3,500+
Corporate Lunch ₹300 – ₹900
Festive Event ₹600 – ₹1,500
Note: Prices vary depending on city, caterer reputation, and menu customization.
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🍽️ 2. Factors That Influence Catering Costs
• Cuisine Variety
Multi-cuisine menus (Indian + Italian + Oriental) cost more than single-cuisine setups.
• Service Style
Buffet is more affordable; plated service and live counters add 20–40% extra cost.
• Number of Guests
Larger guest lists often reduce the per-plate rate due to economies of scale.
• Venue & Setup
Outdoor venues might require extra logistics (tents, heating, power), raising total costs.
• Location
Tier-1 cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore tend to have higher rates than Tier-2/3 cities.
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📦 3. Add-on Costs
Mocktail bar: ₹150–₹400 per head
Live food counters: ₹200–₹500 per head
Decor integration: ₹10,000–₹50,000+
Service staff: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per waiter
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✅ Conclusion
Catering costs in India can range from budget-friendly to premium, depending on the choices you make. Always request a detailed quote and clarify what’s included—cutlery, staff, taxes, etc. Compare 2–3 vendors and look for online reviews before finalizing.