The Essential Catering Portion Guide for Your Winter Event

Overwhelmed by catering portions? Our guide, with a mini-calculator for 20-250 guests, helping you perfectly plan your sushi catering order. No more guesswork!

Table of Contents

As the winter settles in, so does the season for cozy gatherings and memorable celebrational events. When it comes to making your event truly stand out, Pika Sushi is here to help you craft an unforgettable culinary experience. 

We get that planning an event, big or small, comes with its unique set of challenges, and getting the food portion just right is at the top of the list. Fret not, we’ve put together this easy-to-follow guide, plus a mini-calculator, to help you perfectly plan your Pika Sushi catering order for 20 to 250 guests. 

The Portion Planning Guide

Say hello to perfectly portioned deliciousness! One of the most common questions we get is, “How much sushi should I order?” The answer depends on a few key factors, such as ‘is sushi the main event or part of a larger spread?’ ‘Are your guests light nibblers or hearty eaters?’

Based on industry best practices and our catering experience, here’s a rule of thumb to help you estimate:

  • Sushi as an appetizer or light snack: Plan for 6-8 pieces per person.
  • Sushi as a light meal (for lunch, or with sides like salad/miso soup): Aim for 8-12 pieces per person.
  • Sushi as the main course: Target 12-16 pieces per person.

Tip: When considering ‘pieces,’ remember that a sushi roll is typically cut into 6-8 pieces. Nigiri and sashimi are generally counted as individual pieces.

Pika Sushi Mini-Calculator to Help You Count Easier

Based on the planning guide above, use this quick reference calculator for common event sizes, assuming sushi is the main course (12-16 pieces per person). Adjust down if you’re serving other substantial dishes.

  • 20 guests: 240-320 pieces
  • 50 guests: 600-800 pieces
  • 100 guests: 1200-1600 pieces
  • 150 guests: 1800-2400 pieces
  • 200 guests: 2400-3200 pieces
  • 250 guests: 3000-4000 pieces

How to use your mini-calculator:

Simply decide if sushi will be an appetizer, light meal, or main course. Then, take your guest count and multiply it by the recommended pieces per person. For example, if you have 75 guests and sushi is a light meal (aiming for 10 pieces per person), consider around 750 pieces. Easy peasy, right?

Beyond the Numbers: Planning Tips

  • Use variety: Offer a mix of classic hand rolls, specialty rolls, nigiri, and sashimi to cater to all preferences. 
  • Consider dietary requirements: Always note dietary restrictions and allergies from your guests in advance. Our team can help you craft a menu that accommodates everyone.
  • Choose the right catering service: Pika Sushi’s catering platters are not just delicious, they’re beautifully arranged, adding an elegant visual element to your event.

Make Your Winter Event Unforgettable with Pika Sushi

Don’t let portion planning stress you out. With Pika Sushi, you get fresh, high-quality Japanese cuisine and expert guidance to ensure your event’s catering is flawless. Our team is ready to help you customize the perfect menu, ensuring every guest is delighted and every detail is handled with care.

Take the first step towards a perfectly catered winter event! Request our catering quote today and let us bring the seamless service to your next gathering. 

Unlock our FREE Sushi Recipe Book and discover