Whether you're planning a 50-person wedding, a 300-person corporate conference, or an intimate dinner party, the food will be what people remember (and talk about for years).
Irvine has an incredible catering scene with options for every budget and cuisine. Here's your complete guide to finding the perfect caterer.
Catering Costs in Irvine
| Service Level | Per Person | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Casual/BBQ | $25 – $45 | Buffet, disposable plates, basic setup |
| Mid-Range | $50 – $80 | Buffet/family, real plates, servers |
| Premium | $85 – $150 | Plated service, rentals, staff |
| Luxury | $150 – $300+ | White-glove, custom menus, everything |
Popular Catering Styles
Buffet Service
Guests serve themselves from beautifully arranged stations. Great for casual events, allows variety, and keeps costs manageable. Perfect for 50+ guests.
Plated Service
The formal choice. Each guest receives a pre-selected meal served at their seat. Elegant but requires more staff (and cost). Best for weddings and formal dinners.
Food Stations
Interactive and fun. Think taco bars, pasta stations, carving stations. Guests get to customize their plates and it creates a social atmosphere.
Family Style
Large platters placed on tables for guests to share. Creates a warm, communal feeling. Popular for rehearsal dinners and celebration of life events.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book?
For weddings, book 6-12 months ahead. Corporate events typically need 1-3 months. Small private parties can often book 2-4 weeks out.
What's included in the per-person price?
It varies! Always ask what's included. Some caterers include rentals, staff, and setup. Others charge separately. Get a detailed quote.
Do caterers handle dietary restrictions?
Reputable caterers absolutely can. Just communicate needs upfront—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, allergies. They'll work with you.
Get Catering Quotes
Compare Irvine caterers, browse menus, and request custom quotes for your event.
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