How Much Food and Drink Per Person for a Party?
Running out is the worst thing that can happen at a party; overbuying is the second. These rules of thumb are a starting point, adjust for your crowd.
They're estimates, not exact science; big eaters and long parties need more.
Food rules of thumb
- Finger food as the main meal: around 10–12 pieces per person.
- Finger food alongside a meal: around 4–6 pieces per person.
- Sandwiches: roughly 4 quarters per person.
- Cake: one slice each, plus a few extra.
- Kids eat roughly half an adult portion.
Drink rules of thumb
- Roughly one drink per person per hour after the first hour, with two in the first hour.
- A 75cl bottle of wine gives around five or six glasses.
- Have plenty of soft drinks and water; aim for at least a litre per person over a long party.
- Ice: more than you think, especially in summer.
Key things to remember
- Buy drinks on sale-or-return if your supplier offers it.
- Plan for a few unexpected guests.
Frequently asked questions
How much finger food per person?
Around 10–12 pieces if it's the main food, 4–6 if there's a meal.
How many bottles of wine for 50 guests?
As a rough guide for a few hours, around 20–25 bottles if wine is the main drink, fewer with beer and soft drinks.
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