📌 Complete Guide to Hyderabad Catering Prices: What You Need to Know in 2025

Planning an event in Hyderabad and wondering about catering costs? You’ve come to the right place. MS Cooking and Catering Services brings you a comprehensive guide to understanding catering prices per plate in Hyderabad for 2025, helping you budget smartly for weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and family gatherings. Whether you’re looking for affordable vegetarian catering, authentic Hyderabadi biryani, or premium multi-cuisine wedding packages, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about catering charges, hidden costs, and how to get the best value for your money.

What Does “Cost Per Plate” Mean in Catering?

Before diving into prices, let’s clarify what catering cost per plate actually means. The “per plate” charge is the average price per guest for a complete meal, typically including preparation, ingredients, service charges, and sometimes additional features like decor or live counters. This makes it easy to calculate your total catering budget simply by multiplying the per-plate cost by the number of guests you’re expecting.

Understanding this metric is crucial because it helps you compare different caterers fairly and avoid hidden charges that might surprise you later. At MS Cooking and Catering Services, we believe in transparent pricing and complete clarity on what’s included in each package.

Hyderabad Catering Cost Per Plate: 2025 Price Breakdown

Vegetarian (Veg) Catering Prices in Hyderabad

Vegetarian catering remains one of the most popular choices across Hyderabad for religious ceremonies, family events, and inclusive celebrations. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

Event Type	Price Range (₹ per plate)	What’s Included
Basic Home Party	₹250–₹400	2 curries, rice, roti, simple dessert
Standard House Function	₹350–₹500	Multiple curries, rice, bread varieties, better desserts
Corporate Lunch	₹400–₹700	Combo meals, fresh salads, beverages, variety
Wedding/Engagement	₹700–₹1200	Multi-course, buffet style, dessert, premium presentation
Premium Wedding	₹1500–₹2500	Live counters, gourmet items, exclusive desserts, plated service

A typical vegetarian menu at the ₹300–₹600 range usually includes:

Starters (paneer tikka, vegetable cutlets, stuffed mushrooms)
Main course (dal tadka, mixed vegetable curry, paneer butter masala)
Rice varieties (veg biryani, fried rice, or pulao)
Bread options (chapati, naan, paratha)
Beverages and desserts (gulab jamun, ice cream, kheer)

Non-Vegetarian (Non-Veg) Catering Prices in Hyderabad

Non-vegetarian catering typically costs 20–25% more than vegetarian options due to higher ingredient costs, special handling requirements, and premium meat sourcing. Here’s the breakdown:

Event Type	Price Range (₹ per plate)	Popular Choices
Basic Non-Veg Party	₹350–₹550	Simple chicken curries, basic sides
Standard Non-Veg Event	₹450–₹700	Chicken, mutton, fish options
Corporate Non-Veg Lunch	₹500–₹850	Premium cuts, multiple protein options
Wedding Non-Veg Menu	₹900–₹1500	Tandoori items, kebabs, specialized curries
Premium Non-Veg Wedding	₹1700–₹3000	Premium BBQ, gourmet preparations, live counters

Authentic Hyderabadi Biryani Catering: Special Mention

Hyderabadi biryani is arguably the most requested catering menu in the city, and for good reason. This iconic dish commands special attention in the catering world.

Biryani Type	Price Per Plate	Ideal For
Veg Biryani with Starters	₹275–₹325	Family gatherings, small functions
Chicken Biryani Combo	₹310–₹450	Birthday parties, office events
Mutton Dum Biryani (Premium)	₹450–₹600	Weddings, premium celebrations
Complete Hyderabadi Feast	₹550–₹850	Traditional weddings, heritage events

A complete Hyderabadi biryani spread typically includes:

Authentic dum biryani (vegetable or meat)
Shorba (traditional gravy)
Raita (yogurt-based condiment)
Mirchi ka Salan (spicy green chili preparation)
Sheermal and Lachcha Paratha (special breads)
Qubani ka Meetha or Double ka Meetha (traditional desserts)

This combination showcases the rich culinary heritage of Hyderabad and leaves a lasting impression on your guests.

Location-Based Catering Prices Across Hyderabad

Catering prices vary significantly across different areas of Hyderabad due to accessibility, demand, and the nature of events typical to each locality. Here’s a location-wise breakdown:

Area	Veg (₹/plate)	Non-Veg (₹/plate)	Typical Events
Kukatpally	₹280–₹500	₹350–₹600	Small parties, local weddings
Miyapur & Miyapur	₹300–₹600	₹400–₹750	Family gatherings, moderate events
Gachibowli & Madhapur	₹400–₹800	₹500–₹900	Corporate events, upscale parties
LB Nagar & Uppal	₹250–₹500	₹350–₹700	Community events, budget-friendly functions
Banjara Hills & Jubilee Hills	₹800–₹2000	₹1000–₹2500	Luxury weddings, premium corporate events
Secunderabad	₹250–₹500	₹350–₹600	Institutional events, bulk catering

Pro Tip: Caterers operating from central, easily-accessible locations often charge slightly less due to lower transportation costs. However, premium areas like Jubilee Hills command higher prices due to the upscale nature of events in those localities.

Event-Specific Catering Packages in Hyderabad

💍 Wedding Catering Services

Weddings are the flagship events for most catering services, requiring meticulous planning, diverse menus, and premium presentation. Here’s what you should expect:

Budget Wedding Catering: ₹550–₹750 per plate

Simple vegetarian or non-vegetarian menu
Basic decor (table covers, flowers)
Serving staff
Standard crockery and cutlery

Premium Wedding Catering: ₹850–₹1500 per plate

Multi-cuisine options
Live counters (dosa, pani puri, pasta)
Professional service team
Quality dishware and elegant presentation

Luxury/Royal Wedding Catering: ₹1300–₹1800+ per plate

Customized menus with celebrity chef options
Live cooking stations with premium ingredients
Professional waitstaff in formal attire
Customized decor, flower arrangements
Premium beverages and exclusive dessert stations

Wedding Catering Essentials:

Theme-based menu design
Dietary accommodation (vegan, Jain, gluten-free)
Serving style options (buffet, plated, live service)
Post-meal dessert and beverage stations
Complete cleanup and waste management

🏢 Corporate Event Catering

Corporate clients demand efficiency, professionalism, and variety to keep their employees engaged and satisfied.

Service Type	Price (₹/plate)	Best For
Tea & Snacks Only	₹80–₹120	Morning meetings, conferences
Lunch Box Catering	₹150–₹250	Working lunches, office deliveries
Full Meal Service	₹250–₹450	Team lunches, client meetings
Multi-Course Corporate Dinner	₹500–₹800	Premium corporate events, award ceremonies

Corporate Catering Benefits:

Customizable menus for dietary preferences
Flexible delivery timings
Bulk order discounts (typically 10–20% for 300+ plates)
Professional serving staff
Hygienic packaging and food handling

🎂 Birthday & Small Function Catering

Birthday parties and intimate gatherings have become increasingly popular with a focus on personalized, fun menus.

Budget Option: ₹200–₹300 per plate (simple snacks, one main dish, dessert)
Mid-Range: ₹300–₹500 per plate (appetizers, choice of mains, desserts, beverages)
Premium: ₹500–₹800 per plate (themed menu, live counter, customized cake)

🌙 Late-Night & BPO Catering

With growing IT and BPO sectors in Hyderabad, late-night catering has become a specialized service.

Midnight Snacks: ₹350–₹500 per plate
Night Shift Meals: ₹450–₹650 per plate
Energy-Boosting Meals: ₹500–₹800 per plate

Includes: Sandwiches, parathas, quick curries, energy drinks, and light desserts suitable for night shifts.

Key Factors That Affect Catering Prices in Hyderabad

1. 🥘 Menu Type & Cuisine Selection

The menu you choose is the single biggest determinant of your catering cost. Here’s how different cuisines typically price:

Simple Indian vegetarian: Lowest cost (₹250–₹400)
Mixed Indian (North + South): Mid-range (₹400–₹700)
Hyderabadi specialty menu: Premium (₹500–₹900)
Multi-cuisine (Indian + Chinese + Continental): Higher cost (₹700–₹1200)
International cuisines (Continental, Italian, Asian Fusion): Premium pricing (₹800–₹1500+)

Ingredient quality matters tremendously. Premium spices, organic vegetables, and high-quality meat can add 15–30% to your total cost.

2. 📊 Number of Guests & Quantity

Catering businesses offer significant discounts for larger events due to economies of scale:

25–50 guests: Full per-plate rate (standard pricing)
50–100 guests: 5–10% discount
100–300 guests: 10–15% discount
300+ guests: 15–25% discount (sometimes up to 30% for very large orders)

A bulk order of 500+ plates can easily reduce your cost per plate by ₹100–₹200, making it substantially cheaper than catering for a smaller group.

3. 🔄 Veg vs. Non-Veg Pricing

As mentioned earlier, non-vegetarian catering typically costs 20–25% more per plate due to:

Higher ingredient costs (meat prices vs. vegetable prices)
Special refrigeration and handling requirements
Premium sourcing and quality standards
Specialized cooking techniques and expertise

4. 🏭 Kitchen Model: Cloud vs. On-Site Setup

Cloud kitchens (centralized, food-delivered fresh) are often cheaper per plate (₹280–₹500) because they have:

Lower overhead costs
Efficient operation systems
No on-site setup expenses

On-site catering (prepared at venue) costs more (₹500+) due to:

Transportation and logistics
Equipment rental
Specialized staff requirements
Venue-specific challenges

5. 🍽️ Service Style Impact

Buffet Service: Lowest cost (standard per-plate pricing)
Plated Service: 15–20% additional cost
Live Counters (Dosa, Pasta, BBQ): 20–30% premium
Full Table Service with Multiple Courses: 30–50% premium

6. 🚗 Delivery Distance & Location

Within 5 km: No additional charge
5–10 km: ₹5–₹10 per plate additional charge
10–20 km: ₹15–₹25 per plate additional charge
20+ km: ₹30–₹50+ per plate additional charge

7. 📅 Event Timing & Day of Week

Pricing varies significantly based on when you hold your event:

Weekday lunches: Base rate
Weekday evenings: +5–10%
Saturday events: +10–20%
Sunday events: +15–25%
Peak seasons (December, April, May): +20–30%
Festival times (Diwali, Eid, weddings season): +30–50%

8. 🎂 Additional Services & Add-Ons

Don’t forget these commonly added costs:

Service	Additional Cost
Decor (table covers, flowers)	₹50–₹200 per plate
Serving staff	₹300–₹500 per staff member
Crockery & cutlery upgrade	₹20–₹50 per plate
Bar service	₹100–₹300 per person
Live cooking stations	₹100–₹200 per plate
Photography	₹5000–₹15000 (flat fee)
DJ/Entertainment	₹5000–₹20000 (flat fee)

How MS Cooking and Catering Services Delivers Value

At MS Cooking and Catering Services (established 1970), we’ve built our reputation on:

✅ Transparent Pricing: No hidden charges, clear breakdown of every cost
✅ Authentic Hyderabadi Cuisine: Using traditional recipes and premium ingredients
✅ Customizable Menus: Tailored to your budget, preferences, and dietary needs
✅ Professional Service: Experienced staff ensuring perfect execution
✅ Bulk Discounts: Competitive rates for large events
✅ Flexible Packages: From budget-friendly to premium options
✅ Hygienic Standards: Complete food safety compliance and quality assurance

Smart Tips to Reduce Your Catering Budget

1. Choose Seasonal Ingredients

Seasonal vegetables and fruits cost 20–30% less than off-season produce, helping you save significantly without compromising on quality.

2. Opt for Buffet Service

Buffet-style service is the most cost-effective option, reducing service staff requirements and kitchen costs compared to plated meals.

3. Select Vegetarian or Mixed Menus

Pure vegetarian menus cost 20–25% less than all non-vegetarian events. Consider offering both options to accommodate guests while managing costs.

4. Schedule Off-Peak Events

Weekday events and non-peak seasons (June–August, November–February) offer substantial discounts—often 20–30% off weekend rates.

5. Increase Guest Count Intelligently

Adding 50–100 more guests can reduce your per-plate cost by 10–15%, making it a smart financial move if your venue permits.

6. Minimize Add-On Services

Choose essential services only. Skip elaborate decor if your venue already has natural beauty, and use in-house DJ instead of external providers.

7. Finalize Numbers Early

Provide confirmed guest counts 2–3 weeks in advance to help caterers prepare efficiently, often resulting in better pricing.

Questions to Ask Your Caterer Before Booking

Before finalizing your catering contract, ensure you get answers to these critical questions:

What’s included in the per-plate cost? (food, service, crockery, decor?)
Are there hidden charges? (delivery, service staff, setup fees?)
What happens if guest count increases/decreases?
Can I customize the menu? Are there restrictions?
What are your payment terms? (advance, deposit, final payment schedule?)
Do you offer dietary accommodations? (vegan, Jain, gluten-free, halal?)
What’s your cancellation policy?
Can I have a food tasting before finalizing?
What’s your experience with events of my size and type?
Do you provide all service staff and equipment?

Real-World Catering Cost Examples for Hyderabad Events

Example 1: Small Birthday Party

Guest Count: 50 people
Event Type: Home birthday party
Menu: Veg biryani, paneer curry, salad, dessert, beverages
Per-Plate Cost: ₹350
Total Cost: 50 × ₹350 = ₹17,500
Service Style: Buffet
Additional Services: None

Example 2: Corporate Lunch Event

Guest Count: 200 people
Event Type: Office team lunch
Menu: Mixed veg & non-veg, multiple curries, rice, bread, dessert, soft drinks
Per-Plate Cost: ₹450 (with 10% bulk discount)
Total Cost: 200 × ₹450 = ₹90,000
Service Style: Buffet with service staff
Additional Services: Disposable crockery, napkins

Example 3: Wedding Reception

Guest Count: 300 people
Event Type: Wedding dinner
Menu: Hyderabadi biryani, multiple curries, live dosa counter, premium desserts
Per-Plate Cost: ₹850 (with 15% bulk discount, evening premium +15%)
Total Cost: 300 × ₹850 = ₹2,55,000
Service Style: Plated service with live counters
Additional Services: Professional staff, premium crockery, basic decor

How to Get the Best Catering Quote in Hyderabad

Step 1: Determine Your Exact Requirements

Event date and time
Venue location
Expected guest count
Dietary preferences/restrictions
Menu preferences (cuisine type, veg/non-veg split)

Step 2: Get Multiple Quotes

Always request quotes from at least 3–4 different caterers to compare:

Per-plate cost
What’s included/excluded
Service quality and reputation
Flexibility with customization

Step 3: Compare Apples to Apples

Ensure all quotes include the same services, menu items, and inclusions before comparing prices.

Step 4: Read Reviews & Check References

Look at Google reviews, WedMeGood, and other platforms to understand customer experiences. Ask for references from similar events they’ve catered.

Step 5: Request a Food Tasting

Most reputable caterers offer a tasting before finalizing. This ensures the quality meets your expectations and justifies the cost.

Step 6: Finalize the Contract

Get everything in writing:

Per-plate cost and total estimated cost
Itemized menu
Payment schedule
Cancellation policy
Service details (staff, equipment, timing)

Common Catering Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Underestimating guest count: Always add 5–10% extra plates for unexpected guests
❌ Ignoring dietary requirements: Properly ask about vegan, gluten-free, or religious dietary needs
❌ Choosing only based on price: Quality matters; the cheapest caterer isn’t always the best value
❌ Last-minute bookings: Peak season catering can double in cost; book 2–3 months in advance
❌ Not confirming in writing: Verbal agreements often lead to misunderstandings; get everything documented
❌ Forgetting about transportation: Factor in delivery fees for remote locations
❌ Overlooking tasting sessions: Never finalize without tasting the food first

FAQs: Catering Costs in Hyderabad

Q: What’s the cheapest catering option in Hyderabad?

A: The most budget-friendly catering option is vegetarian buffet-style meals from cloud kitchens, typically ranging from ₹250–₹350 per plate. This works well for home parties and community events.

Q: Is wedding catering significantly more expensive than regular events?

A: Yes, wedding catering costs 2–3 times more than regular events due to elaborate menus, premium ingredients, multiple courses, live counters, and professional service requirements.

Q: Can I get discounts for large events?

A: Absolutely! Events with 300+ guests typically receive 15–25% discounts. Discuss volume-based pricing when requesting quotes.

Q: What’s the difference between cloud kitchen catering and traditional catering?

A: Cloud kitchens deliver pre-prepared meals (often cheaper: ₹280–₹500), while traditional caterers prepare food on-site (more expensive: ₹500+) but offer better customization and freshness for certain dishes.

Q: How far in advance should I book a caterer?

A: Ideally, book 2–3 months in advance, especially for weddings or peak season events (December, April-May). Last-minute bookings often incur premium charges of 20–50%.

Q: Are service charges and tips included in the per-plate cost?

A: It varies by caterer. Always clarify whether tips, service charges, and taxes are included or additional. Professional catering typically includes a service charge (5–10%).

Conclusion: Making Your Hyderabad Catering Decision

Understanding catering costs in Hyderabad empowers you to make smart financial decisions while ensuring your event is memorable and delicious. Whether you’re planning a ₹250 per plate budget gathering or a ₹2000+ luxury wedding, the key is matching your budget with your expectations and booking a reliable caterer well in advance.

At MS Cooking and Catering Services, we’ve been serving Hyderabad since 1970 with authentic Hyderabadi cuisine, transparent pricing, and impeccable service. Whether you need affordable catering for 50 guests or premium service for 500, we’re here to make your event unforgettable.

Ready to plan your event? Contact MS Cooking and Catering Services today for a customized quote and explore our diverse menu options tailored to your budget and preferences.

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