Catering for 30 People in Bengaluru? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Planning food for 30 guests in Bengaluru comes with its share of questions. How much to order? Who serves food that everyone will actually enjoy? Whether it’s a birthday party, a weekend get-together, or a small office lunch, handling meals for a group can quickly feel like a full-time task.

The city has no shortage of catering services that go beyond basic buffet spreads. From comforting regional menus to sleek cocktail-style bites, there’s something for every type of gathering and budget.

We’ve sifted through the clutter to help you find reliable, crowd-pleasing options that won’t break the bank. Let’s take a closer look at what Bengaluru has to offer.

Why 30 Is the Ideal Number for Professional Caterers

A group of 30 strikes a rare balance. It’s big enough to need expert help, but still small enough for thoughtful menus and attentive service. For catering teams like Boho Party Platters, this size lets them focus on both presentation and flavor without rushing through the details. It’s the kind of number that makes it easier to serve dishes people remember long after the party ends.

Here’s why thoughtful planning matters when you’re hosting 30 guests:

1. A Variety of Palates Needs a Thoughtful Menu

When you’re feeding 30 people, food choices and dietary needs are bound to vary. Some guests may be vegetarian or Jain, while others might expect a signature non-vegetarian dish, and a few may have dietary sensitivities.

• A professional caterer knows how to create a balanced and inclusive menu that appeals to a diverse crowd.

• The right spread should include veg and non-veg options, at least one gluten-free or dairy-free dish, and a mix of mild and spicy preparations to accommodate everyone.

• Accurate Quantity Planning Avoids Waste and Shortages

Figuring out how much food to order for 30 people takes more than basic math. Too much means waste, too little leaves guests disappointed.

• Experienced caterers rely on real-time service data to recommend optimal portion sizes.

• A typical menu for 30 people often includes two main courses, one rice or bread item, a couple of appetizers, and a dessert, ensuring variety without excess. These combinations can be adjusted based on whether it's a sit-down lunch or a casual evening event.

• Presentation and Setup Still Matter

At 30 guests, presentation plays a crucial role, especially at home gatherings, office parties, or terrace soirées, where ambience adds to the experience.

• Food presentation should be aligned with the tone of your event. For a formal setting, this might include buffet setups with coordinated serveware; for a relaxed gathering, grazing platters and bowl-style service work well.

• Even with a modest guest count, curated setups with stylish platters, eco-friendly disposables, and cohesive table design elevate the experience.

• Mid-Sized Events Still Involve Logistics

Planning for 30 guests goes beyond the menu. Even at this size, several logistical elements come into play:

• Delivery timelines must be precise, especially for office lunches or community hall bookings with limited windows.

• Setup and serving can require assistance if you’re hosting in an apartment complex, a shared rooftop, or an office space with restrictions.

• Staffing decisions, such as hiring servers or opting for a drop-and-go setup, depend on the event’s format and formality.

• Clean-up and disposal often become pain points if your caterer doesn’t offer end-to-end service.

Many Bengaluru-based caterers are familiar with apartment bylaws, parking limitations, and time-bound venue access, and they build services accordingly. It’s worth asking in advance whether your caterer provides setup, staff, or just delivery.

With the right team, catering for 30 people offers the best of both worlds: flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and a truly curated experience.

Cost Breakdown: What Does Catering for 30 People Really Cost?

Let’s talk numbers. Pricing depends on the type of food, service style, and the caterer's reputation. But here’s a ballpark:

Service Style	Approximate Cost per Person	Total Cost (30 Guests)
Boxed Meals	₹250–₹400	₹7,500–₹12,000
Buffet (Veg)	₹350–₹600	₹10,500–₹18,000
Buffet (Non-Veg/Mixed)	₹500–₹800	₹15,000–₹24,000
Premium Platters	₹600–₹1000	₹18,000–₹30,000
Live Counters / Themed	₹800+	₹24,000+

Pro tip: Always confirm what’s included. Cutlery, staff, taxes, and delivery charges. Some quotes seem low until you add the extras.

Best Catering Options in Bengaluru for 30 Guests

Planning a gathering for 30 guests in Bengaluru? These catering services strike the perfect balance between variety, quality, and reliability, without overcomplicating your event.

1. Boho Party Platters

Perfect for: House parties, baby showers, festive gatherings, corporate celebrations in intimate settings

Boho Party Platters has earned its reputation as one of Bengaluru’s most trusted premium catering services. Known for elevating house parties into styled culinary experiences, Boho brings together creativity, quality, and presentation in every platter.

Boho focuses on making small gatherings feel thoughtful and easy to host. Our team works closely with hosts to recommend menus that fit both the occasion and the guest list.

From well-balanced brunch platters to evening grazing tables, the emphasis stays on fresh ingredients and clean, elegant presentation.

What sets Boho apart:

• Customisable menus tailored to event size, dietary preferences (including vegan/vegetarian), and party themes.

• High-quality ingredients that are fresh, flavourful, and visually stunning.

• Instagram-worthy presentations that make your dining setup event-ready without extra décor.

• Hassle-free execution with on-time delivery, optional on-site setup, and prompt support.

Boho makes hosting feel effortless, with food that looks good, tastes better, and suits both relaxed and polished gatherings.

Recommended Budget: ₹500–₹800 per person (Pricing may vary based on customisation and menu choices)

Contact:+91 95604 17270+91 95915 70389WhatsApp: +91 80950 01188

2. Ohieo

Snapshot of Ohieo Website.

Perfect for: Brunches, family get-togethers, intimate celebrations

Ohieo blends wellness with indulgence, offering pre-set catering menus that strike a balance between feel-good eating and comforting favourites. Their dishes are ideal for small-group dining with minimal fuss.

Their platform allows you to order an entire catering setup, from food to cutlery and service equipment, within minutes. While the menu isn’t fully customizable, it includes a wide variety of chef-curated items suited for casual, health-conscious gatherings.

What makes them popular:

• Quick online ordering with upfront pricing.

• Healthy-leaning options without compromising on flavor.

• Inclusive service setup: plates, chafing dishes, water, and stewards provided.

• Consistent quality and punctual delivery for events up to 50 people.

Budget: ₹400–₹600 per person

3. Premiere Kitchens

Snapshot of Premiere Kitchen Website.

Perfect for: Corporate luncheons, formal gatherings, weddings, and private events

Premiere Kitchens is a seasoned name in Bengaluru’s catering scene, offering a wide-ranging menu with options that span North Indian, continental, and live food counters. They stand out for their ability to tailor dishes to specific event types, guest profiles, and dietary preferences.

Their structured approach to service, ranging from bulk meal boxes to plated buffets, makes them especially suitable for formal events where consistency and presentation are crucial.

What makes them reliable:

• Customizable catering menus based on cuisine and event type.

• Smooth execution of corporate and wedding-scale events.

• Service options include meal boxes, tuck shops, and live counters.

• Focused on timely delivery and professional presentation.

Budget: Varies by menu and event size

4. The BBQ Catering Company

Snapshot of The BBQ Catering Company Website.

Perfect for: BBQ enthusiasts, house parties, corporate events, and outdoor get-togethers

The BBQ Catering Company specializes in live BBQ setups, turning any gathering into a smoky feast. Their menu offers a variety of BBQ options, from juicy skewers to succulent grilled meats, ensuring there’s something for every palate. For both laid-back house parties and formal corporate events, their commitment to quality and on-site cooking ensures every meal is fresh and tailored to your needs.

What makes them stand out:

• Live BBQ experience with chefs cooking on-site for an authentic touch.

• Customizable menu options to fit the event type, from corporate parties to weddings.

• Commitment to sourcing locally and cooking from scratch for superior taste.

Budget: ₹600–₹1,200 per person (depending on the menu and event size)

5. The Higher Taste

Snapshot of The Higher Taste Website.

Perfect for: Satvik weddings, spiritual gatherings, traditional functions, and temple-associated events

The Higher Taste is the good choice when you want authentic, sattvic (no onion, no garlic) South Indian fare rooted in tradition. Based in ISKCON Bengaluru, their catering service is steeped in heritage and spiritual discipline, with offerings that align with religious sensibilities while being rich in flavor and presentation.

What makes them special:

• 100% sattvic menu (no onion, garlic, or preservatives) designed for purity and taste.

• Ideal for weddings, poojas, and cultural events requiring spiritual adherence.

• Can serve large gatherings with traditional sit-down or buffet-style arrangements.

• Strong reputation for hygienic preparation and timely delivery backed by ISKCON's standards.

Budget: ₹500–₹800 per person (depending on service style and customization)

What to Look for in a Caterer for 30 People

A poorly planned setup can feel just as chaotic as a 300-person wedding. Here are five things you must check before locking in a caterer:

1. Menu Flexibility

Fixed menus keep things simple, but a few personal touches go a long way. Ask if dishes can be adjusted for your guests. Swapping out an item for dietary needs or adding a family favorite should be easy with the right caterer.

Why it matters: Custom menus prevent food wastage, accommodate allergies, and make the experience feel thoughtful rather than mass-produced.

2. Portion Sizes

Always ask how they calculate portions. Do they go by grams or headcount? You don’t want to run out of biryani halfway through round two. For 30 guests, generous servings (plus 10–15% buffer) are ideal, especially if your event includes seconds and dessert rounds.

Pro tip: For a buffet, plan for 1.25x the headcount. People eat more when they serve themselves.

3. Setup and Clean-up

Some caterers do a neat drop-off. Others arrive with chafing dishes, stewards, and a clean-up crew that vanishes before you even notice. Choose what suits your party vibe and your stamina after guests leave.

Key question to ask: “Do you handle disposables, cutlery, and water?” Because no one wants to be washing plates at midnight.

4. Dietary Preferences

Food should bring everyone to the table, not leave anyone out. Even one Jain or vegan guest deserves options that feel part of the spread, not an afterthought.

What to check: Can the kitchen handle cross-contamination? Are allergy-friendly options clearly labeled? Are alternatives equally filling and festive?

5. Trial Tastings

A tasting session is your food insurance. Some caterers offer sample packs for a small fee or deduct it from the final bill if you confirm.

Pro tip: Try both hot and cold items. You’ll know which dishes hold up well over time.

Picking the right caterer is about peace of mind. A little homework now means zero stress when the plates hit the table.

Menus That Work for 30 Guests (Without Overthinking)

Here's a sample buffet menu that usually hits the mark:

• Welcome Drink: Aam panna or cold coffee

• Starters: Paneer tikka, veg spring rolls, chicken lollipops

• Main Course: Butter chicken, dal makhani, jeera rice, rotis, pulao

• Salad: Mixed veggie salad with lemon vinaigrette

• Dessert: Gulab jamun or mousse cups

Want something more fuss-free or snacky? Platter-style menus are perfect for casual hangs, meetings, or picnics:

• Veg Mezze Box

• Mini Sandwiches + Wraps Combo

• Cheese + Fruit Board

• Sweet Box with brownies and cookies

You can keep it all veg and still win hearts. Or go with the classic 70% veg, 30% non-veg split. It usually works well across age groups and food preferences.

If your crowd leans regional, don’t hesitate to throw in some biryani, chaat, or rasam rice for that local touch.

How to Book the Right Caterer

Booking catering for 30 people isn’t rocket science, but it does need a game plan. Here’s how to get it right:

• Lock Your Date Early

Good caterers get snapped up quickly, especially during wedding season, long weekends, and festivals. Book at least 10–15 days in advance to avoid last-minute scrambles.

• Finalize Your Guest Count

Count everyone: kids, staff, helpers, then add a buffer of 5–10 plates. It’s a small step that can save you from awkward “we ran out of food” moments.

• Ask for Photos and References

Menus are great, but photos are better. Get a visual idea of presentation, serving portions, and actual event setups. If possible, ask for videos or client references from past events of a similar size.

• Read Between the Reviews

Check Google, Zomato, or even Instagram comments. Look out for recurring red flags, like late delivery or cold food. A few authentic reviews are more valuable than a 5-star rating with no detail.

• Confirm Every Single Logistic

Ask who’s bringing what: cutlery, table setup, chafing dishes, servers, water, trash bins. Confirm arrival time, serving duration, and clean-up responsibility. Make a checklist and don’t leave it to assumptions.

• Discuss Backup Plans

Bengaluru traffic is wild, and power cuts are real. Ask your caterer what happens if they’re running late or if live counters lose power.

Get these basics right, and your catering won’t just be stress-free, it’ll be the part of the party everyone raves about.

Final Thoughts: Food That Feels Like a Hug

At the end of the day, the right caterer turns any gathering into a memorable experience. With options like Boho Party Platters or The BBQ Catering Company, Bengaluru offers something for every taste, style, and budget, making hosting feel effortless.

Want food that looks as good as it tastes and shows up on time?

Boho Party Platters is here for it. Think luxe menus, custom combos, and all the little details that make hosting feel effortless.

Call: +91 95604 17270Call: +91 95915 70389WhatsApp: 8095001188

Or just drop us a DM on Instagram to start planning.