How to Cater for 100 People in Liverpool
Sorting food for a group of 100 can feel overwhelming. But with the right plan—and a caterer who knows their way around Liverpool’s venues—it doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether it’s a wedding, staff do, community event or milestone birthday, the approach is more or less the same.
Here’s how to keep things simple, stress-free, and well-fed.
Get a Feel for the Event First
Before choosing dishes or counting forks, work out what kind of event you’re planning. Is it formal or casual? Indoors or outside? Standing or seated? Each of those factors will shape the menu.
If it’s relaxed, a hot buffet or BBQ spread works well. More formal? You might need table service or plated meals.
→ Our BBQ catering is a solid option for big groups who want something fun and unfussy.
Sort the Numbers, Roughly
You don’t need an exact headcount from day one. But knowing whether you’re feeding 85 or 120 makes a big difference. Most caterers will give you flexible quotes based on estimated numbers, with a cut-off date for confirming.
Planning ahead helps with stock, prep, and staffing too—especially if you’re expecting specific dietary needs.
Build a Menu That’s Balanced (Not Boring)
When feeding a crowd, you want to tick key boxes:
- Something warm
- Something fresh
- A meat and veggie option
- A carb or grain
- A sweet finish
This doesn’t mean ten trays of pasta. A couple of well-thought-out mains with clever sides go further.
→ See our full menu for ideas that scale easily.
Dietary Needs Are Non-Negotiable
For 100 people, it’s safe to assume there’ll be:
- Vegans or vegetarians
- Gluten or dairy-free guests
- Allergies or ingredient requests
Make space on the menu for everyone. Keep signage clear, avoid cross-contamination, and don’t treat the meat-free stuff like an afterthought.
Liverpool Logistics: The Bit People Forget
Where’s your event happening? Will there be room for setup? Can vans park close by? Do you need power for hot food? How about a wet-weather plan?
We’ve catered all over—from Baltic Triangle rooftops to town halls in Wavertree—and every location brings its own quirks. Local knowledge matters.
External Tips Worth Reading
FAQs
How far in advance should I book?
If it’s a big event (like a summer party or Christmas do), aim for 2–6 months. Shorter notice is possible—but dates fill quickly.
What kind of food works best for 100 people?
Buffets, grazing tables and BBQs work well. You want something easy to serve, easy to eat, and not too fussy.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary based on menu and setup. A basic buffet for 100 might start around £695, with more for staffed service or premium menus.
Can you cover dietary needs?
Absolutely. We handle everything from nut allergies to halal and coeliac-friendly menus. It’s all part of the job.
Do you serve across Merseyside?
Yes. We’re based in Liverpool but cover Wirral, Cheshire, Southport, and beyond.
→ Explore buffet catering for large groups
Ready to Talk It Through?
We’ve catered for crowds of 100+ at all sorts of events—from backyard birthdays to charity galas. If you need food that travels well, suits your space, and actually tastes good, let’s chat.
