Buffet Food Calculator
Estimate a starting buffet quantity from your actual guest mix, then change the portion and contingency assumptions for your menu.
How the estimate works
Effective adult portions = adults + (children × child percentage). We multiply that by your grams-per-adult allowance, then add the contingency you choose. The defaults are a starting scenario, not a claim that every buffet guest eats the same amount.
Worked example
For 30 adults and 10 children at a 60% child portion, the effective headcount is 36 adult portions. At 400g each that is 14.4kg before contingency, or about 15.8kg with 10% added.
What changes the answer?
- Whether the buffet replaces a full meal or is lighter grazing.
- How many substantial dishes versus snacks are offered.
- The age and appetite mix of the guests.
- Whether cake/dessert is counted inside or outside the allowance.
- How long food remains available.
Next step
Estimate drinks, check cost per guest, or return to Food & Drink planning.
How to read this estimate
The calculator separates your inputs from editable planning assumptions. Treat the result as a starting quantity, then adjust it for the real guest mix, product size, venue or serving style. See how our calculators work.