London is one of the world’s busiest business hubs, hosting thousands of meetings, workshops, product launches and networking events every year. No matter the occasion, catering is one of the most important elements of the experience. Good food elevates the atmosphere, supports your brand image and helps your guests feel looked after.
But how much does catering actually cost in London? Prices vary widely depending on service style, menu design and event format. This guide breaks down the typical cost per person, the factors that influence pricing and how to plan a menu that suits both your event and your budget.
● Catering for corporate events in London typically ranges from £30 to £150 per person, depending on service level and menu complexity.
● Negotiating with reputable caterers can help secure competitive prices or packaged deals.
● Guest count, menu type, dietary requirements and staff needs all significantly affect cost.
● Choosing simple, seasonal dishes helps keep costs down without compromising quality.
London offers an exceptional variety of catering styles suitable for different corporate settings, from intimate board meetings to high-profile receptions. Common formats include:
● Buffet catering: A flexible option that allows guests to self-serve from a range of dishes.
● Plated meal service: A formal seated experience with two to three courses, suitable for VIP events.
● Canapés and finger food: Ideal for networking sessions where guests move around.
● Interactive food stations: Chefs prepare food live, adding entertainment and engagement.
● Themed menus: Menus inspired by global cuisines or designed to match a brand or event theme.
The style you choose will directly influence the overall cost per person.
Catering pricing in London depends on several elements that you should assess when planning your budget:
● Menu choice: Premium ingredients such as seafood or high-quality cuts increase the cost.
● Guest numbers: More guests require more food, equipment and staff.
● Service style: A formal plated service is generally more expensive than a buffet or drop-off catering.
● Dietary needs: Vegan, gluten-free, halal or allergy-friendly meals may require specialised preparation.
● Location and timing: Central London events and peak seasons may attract higher fees.
● Staffing and presentation: Higher staff ratios and intricate presentation styles add cost.
Understanding these variables helps create a realistic catering budget from the start.
Catering prices in London vary widely depending on the level of service and the overall style of your event. As a general guide:
A basic buffet usually falls between £30 and £50 per person. This is suitable for simple internal meetings or informal gatherings.
A standard buffet typically ranges from £50 to £80 per person, offering a broader selection and slightly higher quality.
A three-course plated meal normally costs £80 to £120 per person, making it a common choice for formal business dinners or client events.
A fine dining experience starts at £100 per person and can rise above £150, depending on the reputation of the caterer, the ingredients selected and the level of staffing required.
These prices provide a realistic starting point, although your final quote will depend on your menu, guest count, service style and any bespoke requirements.
A tailored menu is one of the best ways to elevate the event experience while ensuring your guests feel considered. When designing your menu:
● Include options for dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal or nut-free.
● Use seasonal, local ingredients to reduce costs and enhance flavour.
● Match the dishes to the tone of your event, from relaxed comfort food to polished, gourmet plates.
Example of ingredient choices:
When developing a customised menu, it helps to think in terms of dietary categories and the types of ingredients typically associated with each one. Here are some examples you can share with your caterer:
Vegetarian options often feature ingredients such as roasted vegetables, cheeses, herbs, grains or egg-based dishes.
Vegan dishes usually rely on plant-based proteins, legumes, vegetables, nuts, seeds and dairy-free alternatives.
Gluten-free choices may include ingredients like rice, quinoa, potatoes, corn, pulses or items prepared with alternative flours.
Nut-free options tend to replace nuts with safe substitutes such as seeds or seed-based products.
Themed or regional cuisines may incorporate unique spices, marinades and flavour profiles inspired by Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Asian or fusion styles.
These ingredient categories can help shape a menu that is inclusive, creative and aligned with the tone of your event.
The caterer you select will influence not only the food but the entire guest experience. When evaluating options:
● Choose caterers with a strong track record in corporate events.
● Confirm that they can accommodate custom menus and dietary restrictions.
● Request sample menus or book a tasting session.
● Check client testimonials and online reviews.
● Ensure they hold the correct licences and insurance.
A reliable caterer should feel like a partner who supports your objectives, not just a supplier.
When you have a shortlist of caterers, compare their quotes carefully. Ask yourself:
● Does the price include staff, service, equipment and clean-up?
● Are tables, linens, cutlery and glassware included?
● Is VAT or a service charge added separately?
● Are there corkage fees if you bring your own alcohol?
Transparency is key. Do not hesitate to ask caterers whether they offer discounts for repeat bookings, non-peak days or package bundles. Negotiation is not only about reducing costs but also about increasing overall value.
Catering is only part of a corporate event budget. Additional costs may include:
Venue hire
AV equipment such as microphones, speakers or projectors
Transportation for guests or equipment
Permits and licences, especially for alcohol
Accommodation for out-of-town attendees
Event insurance
Extra staff, including hosts or cleaning teams
Accounting for these early avoids unexpected last-minute expenses.
You can deliver a memorable event without overspending by following a few smart strategies:
● Select seasonal produce to reduce ingredient costs.
● Choose buffet or family-style service to minimise staff needs.
● Reduce the number of courses and focus on quality.
● Provide one or two signature drinks instead of a full open bar.
● Ask for packaged deals rather than paying for everything separately.
Strategic decisions can help you stay within budget without compromising on quality.
Are there hidden fees I should consider?
Yes. Ask about VAT, service charges, corkage fees and equipment hire. These can add 15 to 30 percent to the final bill.
How early should I book a caterer?
Book at least two to three months ahead. For summer or December events, secure your caterer four to six months in advance.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
Many venues allow it but may charge a corkage fee. Always confirm in advance.
Can caterers accommodate specific dietary needs?
Professional caterers can provide a full range of dietary options, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, halal and allergy-safe meals.
What is the ideal staff to guest ratio?
For plated meals, around one staff member for every 10 to 12 guests. For buffets, one for every 20 to 30.
Delivering a successful corporate event in London requires thoughtful planning, especially when it comes to catering. By understanding typical costs, exploring different service styles and tailoring your menu, you can create a polished and memorable experience that supports your brand.
Choose a caterer with strong corporate experience, negotiate transparently and anticipate additional expenses early. With the right partner and a smart budgeting approach, you can host an event that impresses clients, colleagues and stakeholders while staying firmly within budget.
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