average price for catering per person
1 An inexpensive catering choice might be a private room at a Chinese, barbecue or other casual restaurant, without alcohol, which can cost as little as $20 per person. 2  Many restaurants charge a small room rental fee and do not charge for use of plates, glasses and flatware. A cocktail hour and sit-down dinner at a fancy hotel, country club or resort with an in-house caterer can cost $125 to $350 or more per person, including service and gratuity.