Calculator
Food Calculator: How Much Food per Person
Wondering how much food to prepare? Enter your guest count and meal type — our calculator gives you exact quantities per person for appetizers, mains, sides, and desserts, scaled to your party size.
Food Calculator
Plan the right amount of food for your party
Results
Estimates are per person, with a 10% buffer for variety.
How the food calculator works
The calculator uses established per-person portion standards for each meal type, then scales them to your guest count. Buffets need more total food (people take larger portions), sit-down dinners need precise portions, and BBQs are calculated by weight of raw meat plus sides. A 10% buffer is included for unexpected guests and varying appetites.
Buffet portions vs. sit-down portions
Buffets require about 20% more food per person than plated meals because guests serve themselves generously and tend to try everything. For a buffet, plan 200-250g of main protein per person, 3-4 side dishes at 100g each, and 2-3 appetizer portions. For a sit-down dinner, plate 150-200g protein, 2 sides at 100g, and one appetizer.
BBQ food quantities
For BBQ, calculate 300-400g of raw meat per person (it loses about 25% during cooking). Offer 2-3 meat types: sausages, chicken, and a larger cut like ribs or burgers. Add 2-3 sides at 150g per person (potato salad, coleslaw, bread). Don't forget vegetarian options — grilled vegetables or veggie burgers for about 20% of guests.
Appetizers, sides, and desserts
Appetizers: 4-6 pieces per person for a full meal, 8-12 for a cocktail-only party. Sides: 2-3 options at 100-150g per person. Dessert: 1 standard portion per person, or a dessert buffet with 2-3 options where guests take smaller portions. For cake, one 20cm cake serves about 8-10 people.
The buffer and special dietary needs
The 10% buffer covers varying appetites and unexpected guests. For dietary needs: plan vegetarian options for about 20% of guests (even if they haven't said so), have a vegan option available, and ask about allergies in advance. Label dishes clearly — it shows care and prevents issues during the party.
FAQ
- How much food do I need per person for a buffet?
- For a buffet, plan 200-250g of main protein per person, 3-4 side dishes at 100g each, and 2-3 appetizer portions. Buffets need about 20% more food than plated meals because guests serve themselves generously. Always add a 10% buffer for varying appetites.
- How much raw meat do I need for a BBQ per person?
- Plan 300-400g of raw meat per person for a BBQ — it loses about 25% during cooking. Offer 2-3 meat types plus 2-3 sides at 150g per person. Don't forget vegetarian options for about 20% of guests.
- How many appetizers do I need per person?
- For a party with a full meal, plan 4-6 appetizer pieces per person. For a cocktail-only party with no main course, increase to 8-12 pieces per person. Choose 3-4 different types to offer variety.
- How do I account for dietary restrictions?
- Plan vegetarian options for about 20% of guests even if they haven't mentioned it. Have a vegan option available, ask about allergies in advance, and label all dishes clearly. The calculator's 10% buffer also helps cover unexpected dietary needs.