30 Jul From Working Lunches to Gala Dinners: London Corporate Catering Costs in 2026

“How much does catering cost per person in London?” is often one of the first questions asked when planning a meeting, launch, reception or company celebration.

The answer depends on much more than the food itself. Guest numbers, service style, staffing, venue access and equipment can all affect the final quotation. However, the following 2026 guide provides a useful starting point when calculating your corporate catering cost in London.

Typical Corporate Catering Prices Per Person

For a straightforward working lunch, expect to budget approximately £12–£20 per person. This may include sandwiches, wraps, salads, fruit and sweet treats delivered to your office or meeting venue.

A more substantial buffet or hot lunch commonly costs around £18–£30 per person, depending on the number of dishes and whether serving staff are required.

For evening receptions, canapé catering may range from £20–£45 per person. The price will depend on the number and complexity of the canapés, with premium menus and elaborate presentation costing more.

Bowl food typically starts at around £25–£50 per person. This format offers small portions of dishes such as slow-cooked meats, seasonal risottos, curries and creative vegetarian options. Because several bowls are normally served to each guest, staffing and tableware can increase the total.

For a formal sit-down corporate dinner, allow approximately £50–£100 or more per person. Bespoke menus, multiple courses, fine ingredients and full table service will place the event towards the higher end of this range. Current London market guides show similar broad variations across lunches, receptions and plated dining.

What Changes the Final Cost?

The main pricing factors include:

• Guest numbers and minimum-order requirements
• Seasonal or premium ingredients
• Chefs, waiting staff and event managers
• Crockery, glassware, linen and furniture hire
• Drinks, cocktails and bar service
• Delivery, setup and clearing
• Venue access, kitchen facilities and parking
• Dietary requirements and bespoke menu development

Always ask whether VAT, staffing and equipment are included. A tempting food-only price may look less competitive once these necessary extras are added.

Independent Quality or High-Volume Catering?

A quality independent caterer should offer more than standard platters delivered at speed. Look for scratch-cooked food, seasonal ingredients, generous portions, flexible menus and a team that takes time to understand the event.

Independent caterers can often provide a more personal experience, adapting everything from a boardroom breakfast to canapés, bowl food, cocktails or a full banquet. Humdingers, for example, offers bespoke London corporate catering covering menu planning, preparation, setup and clearing, with options including breakfasts, salads, sandwiches, hot meals, canapés, bowl food, drinks and cocktails.

Get a Quote That Covers the Whole Event

The most useful quotation is not necessarily the cheapest—it is the one that clearly explains what you are receiving.

For thoughtful menus, professional service and flexible corporate catering throughout London, contact Humdingers with your date, venue, guest numbers and approximate budget. Their team can create a tailored proposal that gives your event the right food, format and atmosphere.