How Much Does Catering Cost Per Person?
The question is really about where the crossover sits, because below a certain group size individual subs are both simpler and about the same price.
The crossover
Around five people. Below that, individual subs cost roughly the same and give everyone exactly what they want.
Above it, boxes priced per head start to undercut meaningfully and arrive with sides bundled rather than charged at $2.29 to $3.29 each.
How much to order
Per adult, for a lunch where the subs are the main event:
- Half a regular sub each if there are substantial sides.
- A full regular each if sides are light.
- Add 20% if it is a buffet rather than plated — people serve themselves generously.
- Count children under twelve as half an adult.
Practical advice
Reduce variety rather than increase it. Three well-chosen subs in quantity — one Italian-style, one plain turkey, one vegetarian — cover almost any office and are far easier to produce accurately than fifteen bespoke orders.
Order cold rather than hot. Cold subs hold for an hour; cheesesteaks do not.
Book at least a day ahead, longer around holidays and graduation season.
Frequently asked
When is catering cheaper than individual subs?
Generally from about five people upward, and the gap widens with group size.
How much sub per person?
Half a regular each with substantial sides, a full regular each with light sides, plus 20% for a buffet.
How far ahead should I order?
A day for a standard order, longer around holidays and graduation season.