Cost guide
How much does bbq catering cost?
A staffed BBQ costs £15 to £30 per head with two or three meats, a vegetarian option, salads and bread. A simple burgers-and-sausages grill for a large crowd can come in at £12 to £18, while a smokehouse menu with brisket, ribs and pulled pork runs £25 to £40.
Typical prices
Ranges, not quotes. A quote depends on your room.
| Work | Typical UK price |
|---|---|
| Classic grill, burgers, sausages and chicken, per head | £12 to £18 |
| BBQ with three meats, salads and sides, per head | £18 to £30 |
| Smoked brisket, ribs and pulled pork, per head | £25 to £40 |
| Wedding BBQ with staff and crockery, per head | £20 to £35 |
| Evening BBQ as a second meal, per head | £10 to £18 |
Ask how many meats and how many portions per head the price covers, and what happens if it rains. A BBQ caterer who has not asked about your cover plan has not worked many British summers.
What moves the price
- Grill or smokehouse. Burgers and sausages are quick and cheaper; brisket and ribs take hours and cost more.
- Number of meats and sides. Each extra meat or hot side adds to the price per head.
- Staff and service. Buffet-style service from the grill is cheaper than plated service at the table.
- Guest numbers. The grills and staff cost much the same for 50 as for 100, so larger events pay less per head.
- Extras. Crockery instead of disposables, desserts and a second evening service all add a line.
Who quotes for it
31 of the 2,162 caterers listed on this site take on bbq catering.
Where they are: Chelmsford (2), Poole (2), Banbury (1), Berwick-upon-Tweed (1), Bishop's Stortford (1).
Questions about bbq catering
When should I book a BBQ caterer?
For a Saturday between May and August, several months ahead. Demand drops sharply after September, and weekday or out-of-season dates are easier to book.
Can a BBQ caterer do vegetarian and vegan food?
Yes. Halloumi, vegetable skewers, plant-based burgers and grilled corn are standard. Ask whether vegetarian food is cooked on a separate grill or a separate part of it.