Hosting a birthday party, an office meeting, a family get-together, or another special event? Picking the right food platters to order can take the stress out of hosting and let you serve a wide range of tasty dishes without spending hours in the kitchen.
Platters are popular because they make feeding a group simple. Whether you want sandwiches and savoury snacks, fruit trays, cheese boards or dessert platters, there is an option for nearly every occasion and budget.
This guide covers the best food platters to order, the main types on offer, what influences the price, and practical advice for choosing the right platter for your guests.
What Are Food Platters?
A food platter is a selection of dishes arranged together on a tray, a board or in a catering box. Platters are made for sharing, which is why they appear so often at parties, business meetings, family gatherings and other events.
Depending on the provider, a platter might hold sandwiches, pastries, chicken bites, cheese, fresh fruit, desserts or a combination of these.
You can buy ready-made platters from supermarkets, restaurants, bakeries and catering companies. Some suppliers will also tailor a platter to your tastes and dietary needs.
Best Food Platters to Order for Any Occasion
The right platter depends on the type of event, your budget and the number of people you are feeding. These are some of the most popular choices.
1. Sandwich Platters
Sandwich platters are one of the most practical options for office lunches, meetings, birthdays and casual get-togethers.
They normally contain sandwiches with a range of fillings, such as chicken, cheese, egg, tuna or vegetables. Many suppliers offer mixed platters so that guests can try different flavours.
Best for:
- Office meetings and corporate events
- Birthday parties
- Family gatherings
- Lunch events and informal celebrations
When you order, check how many sandwich pieces the platter includes and whether you will receive whole sandwiches or smaller portions.
2. Party Food Platters
Party food platters suit celebrations where guests would like a variety of savoury snacks.
They may include sausage rolls, mini pastries, savoury bites, spring rolls, chicken pieces or other finger foods, depending on the provider.
These platters are handy because guests can pick small portions without the need for a formal sit-down meal.
Best for: Birthday parties, house parties, holiday gatherings and social events.
If the party is for children, choose age-appropriate foods and watch for possible choking hazards.
3. Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
Cheese and charcuterie boards work well for adult gatherings, relaxed celebrations and any occasion where presentation counts.
A typical board offers a selection of cheeses alongside crackers, bread, fruit, nuts and cured meats. Vegetarian versions may add more cheeses, olives, vegetables and dips.
Some suppliers sell premium boards that feature speciality cheeses and carefully arranged accompaniments.
Best for: Dinner parties, celebrations, networking events and relaxed gatherings.
Read the ingredients carefully if you need vegetarian choices or want to avoid certain allergens.
4. Fruit Platters
Fruit platters bring colour to the table and balance out richer party food.
Common ingredients include grapes, strawberries, melon, pineapple, oranges and other seasonal fruit, although the exact mix depends on the supplier and the time of year.
They suit breakfast meetings, family gatherings, children’s parties and any event where guests would welcome something lighter than pastries and desserts.
Best for: Brunches, summer parties, workplace events and family celebrations.
If the platter will be served several hours after delivery, ask how the fruit is prepared and packaged.
5. Dessert and Sweet Platters
Dessert platters are an easy choice for guests with a sweet tooth.
Depending on the supplier, they may contain brownies, cookies, mini cakes, doughnuts, pastries or bite-sized desserts.
You can order a mixed dessert platter for a birthday, or pick one type of treat that fits the theme of the event.
Best for: Birthdays, celebrations, afternoon tea and office parties.
For events with many guests, consider ordering a mix of desserts and find out whether any of the items need to be kept in the fridge.
6. Chicken and Hot Food Platters
Chicken platters and hot savoury selections are a good fit when you need something more filling.
Depending on the caterer, they may include grilled chicken pieces, chicken wings, roasted dishes or other hot foods. Some suppliers also provide vegetarian alternatives.
Before you order, confirm whether the food will arrive hot, chilled or ready to reheat. Ask about delivery times and how to store the food safely.
Best for: Family gatherings, larger celebrations and informal group meals.
7. Vegetarian and Vegan Platters
Vegetarian and vegan platters make sure that guests who avoid meat or animal-derived ingredients are looked after.
Vegetarian platters might include cheese sandwiches, vegetable pastries, salads and dips. Vegan platters may feature hummus, falafel, vegetable sticks, fruit and plant-based sandwiches.
However, ingredients and preparation methods differ from one provider to another. Always confirm that a platter meets your guests’ dietary needs instead of relying on the product name alone.
Best for: Mixed-diet gatherings, workplace events and inclusive celebrations.
Food Platters to Order by Occasion
Choosing a platter is easier when you begin with the type of event you are planning.
| Occasion | Platter ideas |
|---|---|
| Birthday party | Party snacks, sandwiches and desserts |
| Office meeting | Sandwiches, fruit and pastries |
| Family gathering | Mixed savoury food, salads and desserts |
| Wedding or formal event | Premium canapés, cheese boards and desserts |
| Breakfast meeting | Pastries, fruit and breakfast sandwiches |
| Children’s party | Age-appropriate finger foods and small treats |
| Picnic or outdoor event | Sandwiches, fruit and packaged snacks |
For a large event, think about ordering more than one type of platter so that guests have plenty of choice. If the event runs for several hours, also plan how you will store and serve the food.
How Much Do Food Platters Cost?
Platter prices depend on the provider, the ingredients, the portion size, your location and the delivery arrangements.
Basic sandwich or snack platters generally cost less than premium cheese boards, specialist catering selections or platters with large amounts of meat and seafood.
Instead of relying on one average price, compare the current listings from suppliers in your area.
Factors That Affect Platter Prices
Number of servings: Bigger platters cost more because they hold more food.
Ingredients: Premium cheeses, speciality meats, seafood and seasonal ingredients can push the price up.
Preparation and presentation: Professionally arranged platters often cost more than simple packaged selections.
Customisation: Special dietary requests or individually prepared portions can change the final price.
Delivery: Delivery fees, minimum order values and service charges can raise the total.
How to Calculate Your Budget
You can use this simple formula:
Total food budget = number of platters × price per platter + delivery and other charges.
For example, if a supplier charges £30 per platter and you order four, the food subtotal comes to £120 before any extra fees. This is an illustrative calculation, not a current quotation from any supplier.
Compare the cost per serving rather than the total price alone. A more expensive platter can offer better value if it feeds more guests.
Where Can You Order Food Platters?
There are several places to look when you want food platters to order.
1. Supermarkets
Many supermarkets sell prepared sandwich platters, party food, fruit trays and desserts. They are a convenient choice for small gatherings and planned events.
Check whether your chosen store offers collection, advance ordering or delivery in your area.
2. Bakeries and Sandwich Shops
Bakeries and sandwich shops may sell sandwich trays, pastries, savoury snacks and other items that suit meetings or celebrations.
If you are thinking of Greggs, look at its current menu and contact your local branch to find out whether it can handle your group order. Do not assume that a standard ready-made party platter is available.
3. Local Catering Companies
Catering companies often provide a wider choice of platter sizes and more ways to customise your order. They are especially useful for weddings, business events and larger gatherings.
Ask for a current menu, serving information, delivery charges and details of how the food will be packaged.
4. Restaurants and Online Food Platforms
Some restaurants and food delivery platforms offer sharing boxes, party trays or group meal options.
Availability depends on your location. Before you pay, check the provider’s current menu, reviews, delivery conditions and minimum order requirements.
How to Choose the Right Food Platter
Keep these practical points in mind before you place your order.
Check the Number of Guests
Find out how many people each platter is meant to serve. Serving sizes can differ a great deal between suppliers, so check whether the platter is intended as a snack, a starter or a complete meal.
Consider Dietary Requirements
Work out whether your guests need vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free or allergen-conscious options. Confirm the ingredients and preparation arrangements with the supplier.
Compare Prices
Compare similar platters by looking at their serving sizes and contents. A lower price does not always mean better value if the platter holds noticeably less food.
Confirm Delivery and Collection Times
Order early where possible, especially for weekends, holidays and large events. Confirm the delivery window or collection time before you complete your purchase.
Check Storage Instructions
Find out whether the food needs to be refrigerated or reheated. Follow the supplier’s instructions and any relevant food safety guidance, particularly for meat, dairy, seafood and other perishable items.
Read Reviews
Customer reviews can give you a sense of portion sizes, presentation, packaging and delivery reliability. Look for recent reviews that relate to the specific platter or catering service you plan to order.
Tips for Ordering Food Platters on a Budget
You do not need an expensive catering package to give your guests a good spread.
- Mix affordable and premium options: Pair a basic sandwich platter with a smaller dessert or cheese platter.
- Choose seasonal produce: Seasonal fruit adds variety without costly ingredients.
- Compare serving sizes: Work out the cost per person when you compare suppliers.
- Avoid unnecessary extras: Check whether plates, napkins, sauces and cutlery are included before you pay for additional supplies.
- Order according to the event: A short meeting needs less food than a full afternoon celebration.
- Ask about collection: Depending on the provider, collecting your order may be cheaper than having it delivered.
The best approach is to plan your menu around your guests and the event, rather than buying more food than you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Food Platters to Order
1. What are the best food platters to order for a party?
Sandwich platters, savoury snack platters, chicken selections, fruit trays and dessert platters are all popular. The best choice depends on your guests, your budget and the kind of event you are hosting.
2. Where can I order food platters near me?
You can look at local supermarkets, bakeries, restaurants and catering companies. Search for food platters in your area, then confirm delivery or collection directly with the supplier.
3. How many people does one food platter serve?
Serving sizes vary by supplier and by the type of platter. Check the stated number of servings and whether the food is meant as a snack, a starter or a full meal.
4. Are food platters suitable for office meetings?
Yes. Sandwiches, fruit, pastries and small savoury selections all work well for office meetings. Choose food that is easy to serve and check dietary requirements before you order.
5. Can I order vegetarian or vegan food platters?
Many caterers offer vegetarian and vegan selections. Confirm the ingredients, preparation methods and allergen information with the supplier before you place your order.
6. How far in advance should I order food platters?
The notice required depends on the supplier, the size of the platter and the date of your event. Check the ordering policy, and place larger or customised orders as early as you can.
7. Are food platters cheaper than individual meals?
They can be cost-effective for groups, since several people share one selection. However, the value depends on portion sizes, ingredients and whether the platters provide enough food for everyone.
8. Can I order food platters for delivery?
Some supermarkets, restaurants and caterers deliver, while others offer collection only. Check the delivery area, fees, minimum order and available time slots.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best food platters to order begins with understanding your event, your guest numbers and your budget. Sandwich platters are handy for office lunches, savoury selections suit casual parties, fruit trays add freshness and dessert platters make a simple finishing touch.
Before you order, compare current prices, serving sizes, ingredients and delivery arrangements. Confirm dietary requirements and storage instructions so that everyone can enjoy the food safely.
With a little planning, you can choose food platters that suit your occasion and make hosting a group much easier.
Disclaimer: Menus, prices, serving sizes and delivery availability vary by provider and location. Confirm all details directly with the supplier before placing an order.