Wedding catering is usually priced per plate, and the final figure depends on your menu size, cuisines, service style, guest count and what the quote includes. Compare quotes on inclusions, not just the per-plate number.
Few wedding decisions cause as much confusion as catering cost. Two quotes for the same guest count can differ widely because they are not quoting the same thing. This guide explains how wedding catering is priced in Chennai, what moves the number, and how to compare quotes fairly.
Most caterers quote a per-plate (per-head) rate multiplied by a guaranteed guest count. Some add separate lines for live counters, service staff, crockery and transport. Ask for an itemised quote so you can see exactly which of these sit inside the rate.
| Item | Questions to Ask | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Food and Preparation | How many dishes are included, and which cuisines are offered? | Defines the base catering rate. |
| Service Staff | How many servers will be provided per 100 guests? | Affects service speed and guest experience. |
| Equipment | Are serving vessels, chafing dishes, crockery, cutlery, and glassware included? | These items may be billed separately. |
| Tables and Linen | Are tables and linens included, or must they be arranged through the venue? | Helps avoid duplicate expenses. |
| Live Counters | Are the chef, equipment, and ingredients included in the package? | Live counters can add unexpected costs. |
| Transport | Is transportation included for your venue, such as a location on ECR? | Travel distance can change the quote. |
| Clean-up | Who is responsible for clearing waste and collecting serving vessels? | May affect your venue deposit and clean-up charges. |
| Tasting | Is food tasting included, and how many tasting rounds are allowed? | Lets you evaluate the food before committing. |
Sometimes. A large order spreads kitchen costs across more plates, but staff, equipment and logistics grow with it. Ask whether there are guest-count slabs and what the minimum guarantee is.
Peak muhurtham dates are booked months ahead, so availability matters more than discounts. Quieter periods, such as the Tamil month of Aadi, give you more date flexibility. Whichever date you choose, early booking gives you time to refine the menu.
Catering and outdoor banquets have been our sole focus since 1996. We have served weddings of up to 5,000 guests, and menus are shaped through a tasting at The Hive, our 10,000-square-foot central kitchen. As with any caterer, we suggest you ask for an itemised quote and compare it line by line.
Usually per plate for a guaranteed guest count, with live counters, staff, equipment or transport either included or billed separately.
Yes, House of Sams can customize the birthday party catering menu based on your guest preferences, cuisine choices, event type, venue, and celebration requirements.
Yes, House of Sams provides catering for both intimate family gatherings and large birthday celebrations, with menus and service planned according to the guest count and venue.
Birthday catering services can include South Indian, North Indian, Continental, Asian, traditional sweets, desserts, beverages, and customized food options based on your event.
House of Sams combines years of catering experience, customized menus, quality food, professional service, and reliable event coordination to create memorable birthday celebrations.
Ready to plan your tasting? Call +91 80566 09630 or message us on WhatsApp.
