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Reviewed by Lau, Community Manager · Last reviewed: September 2026
Covering Lisbon and nearby areas
Lisbon
Cascais
Estoril
Sintra
Oeiras
Almada
+ 7 more
Latest reviews for catering companies in Lisbon
Real, phone-verified reviews from the expat community.
10
Jo
Lisbon, Jan 2026
I hired Magali to cater a holiday party, and her team came early, prepared everything, passed food and drinks, took coats, and stayed to clean up. It was a casual evening with heavy appetizers, like 10 or 12 different bites, all very fresh and tasty, and she made sure there were options for vegetarians and some very particular eaters. Beforehand she kept every promise, came to see the kitchen when she said she would and sent the proposal on time, very professional. The price felt extremely reasonable for the quality and the time they spent, and I would certainly recommend her, plus I liked that she used recyclable things to cut down on waste.
10
Caitlin
Lisbon, Feb 2025
I’ve eaten their food a few times - collected meals for myself, gone with a friend, and also brought home dinners for my family. The ingredients were really fresh, presentation was really nice, and the price felt fair. It was a vegan meal and the chef is trained and super flexible with switching up ingredients, plus communication was perfect and my order was ready when I arrived to collect. Their service feels really personal to what you need, they handled the clean up, and I’m looking forward to them getting their new space.
10
Irem
lisbon, Jul 2026
I had some private events and Bilge helped me a lot with the catering and prepared all the menus so well. Some of my friends had allergies to gluten and seafood, and she made special menu options for them, which made everything way more easier for me. I had some international friends and I am also from Turkey, so she prepared something mixed and international to fit everyone’s taste, and it was even better than I expected. Everything was great, everything was amazing, and the price felt fair too.
How much do catering companies cost in Lisbon?
Real price ranges from the jobs our vetted catering companies actually do. Updated July 2026
Conference and large event catering
How much does conference catering cost in Lisbon?
Per person, with volume bringing the per-head price down.
Per person
€20 to €120
Quoted per event
by guest count
Corporate and office catering
How much does office catering cost in Lisbon?
Per person, with drop-off cheaper than served meals.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Funeral and memorial catering
How much does memorial catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest, usually simple menus at short notice.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Party catering
How much does party catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest by menu and service style.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Private event catering
How much does catering for a private event cost in Lisbon?
Catering in Lisbon is priced per guest, typically €20 to €120 a head depending on the menu and service style. Nothing is charged by the hour.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Wedding catering
How much does wedding catering cost in Lisbon?
Per guest, at the upper end of the range once service and tableware are included.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Asian
How much does Asian catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest by menu.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
BBQ and grill
How much does BBQ catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest, popular for outdoor events in summer.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Fine dining
How much does fine dining catering cost in Lisbon?
The top of the per-head range, with plated service and a chef on site.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Italian
How much does Italian catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest by menu.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Latin American
How much does Latin American catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest by menu.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Local cuisine
How much does Portuguese catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest like other menus.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Mediterranean
How much does Mediterranean catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest by menu.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Middle Eastern
How much does Middle Eastern catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest by menu.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Buffet
How much does buffet catering cost in Lisbon?
Cheaper per head than plated service since it needs fewer staff.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Canapés and finger food
How much does canapés cost in Lisbon?
Priced per person or per piece, common for receptions.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Drop-off and delivery
How much does drop-off catering cost in Lisbon?
The cheapest option, with no staff on site.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Food stations and live cooking
How much does live cooking stations cost in Lisbon?
Above standard service because of equipment and chefs on site.
Per person
€20 to €120
Quoted per event
by guest count
Plated and served meals
How much does plated service cost in Lisbon?
Above buffet per head because of the service staff needed.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Platters
How much does catering platters cost in Lisbon?
Priced per platter, the simplest and cheapest format.
Per platter
quoted by size
Per person
€20 to €120
Bar and beverage service
How much does bar service cost in Lisbon?
Priced per person or on consumption, and quoted separately from food.
Per person
€20 to €120
Quoted per event
by guest count
Bartending
How much does a bartender cost in Lisbon?
Priced per staff member for the event, separate from the drinks.
Per staff member
quoted per event
Per person
€20 to €120
Equipment and tableware rental
How much does tableware rental cost in Lisbon?
Often bundled into full-service catering; ask whether it is included.
Usually bundled
in full service
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Waitstaff
How much does waiting staff cost in Lisbon?
Charged per person per event, on top of the food.
Per staff member
quoted per event
Per person
€20 to €120
Gluten-free
How much does gluten-free catering cost in Lisbon?
Usually the same per-head price, but tell the caterer in advance.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Halal
How much does halal catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest; confirm certification if it matters to you.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Kosher
How much does kosher catering cost in Lisbon?
Specialist and above standard per-head pricing.
Per person
€20 to €120
Quoted per event
by guest count
Vegan
How much does vegan catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced per guest like other menus.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Vegetarian
How much does vegetarian catering cost in Lisbon?
Priced the same as other menus per guest.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Large events (75 to 200)
How much does catering for 75 to 200 guests cost in Lisbon?
Per head falls as numbers rise.
Per person
€20 to €120
Quoted per event
by guest count
Major events (500+)
How much does catering for 500 guests or more cost in Lisbon?
Quoted per event after a site visit.
Per person
€20 to €120
Quoted per event
by guest count
Medium events (25 to 75)
How much does catering for 25 to 75 guests cost in Lisbon?
The most common size, priced per guest.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Small events (up to 25)
How much does catering for a small event cost in Lisbon?
Per head prices are highest at small numbers, since fixed costs spread over fewer guests.
Per person
€20 to €120
Typical booking
around €211
Wider range
€5 to €3,300
Very large events (200 to 500)
How much does catering for 200 to 500 guests cost in Lisbon?
Quoted per event, with the per-head price at its lowest.
Per person
€20 to €120
Quoted per event
by guest count
Frequently Asked Questions
What expats want to know before hiring catering companies in Lisbon.
Are there English-speaking catering companies in Lisbon?
Yes, and more do as the expat community grows. The hard part is knowing who is reliable before you book, so every one we list is reviewed by other expats who have actually used them.
What should I check before hiring catering companies in Lisbon?
Read recent reviews, be clear about exactly what you need, and agree the scope and an estimate in writing before any work starts. For anything regulated, check they hold the right credentials for the job.
What is the most important thing to know before booking?
Be clear about what you want and get the price and scope agreed up front, so there are no surprises. Reading other expats' reviews is the quickest way to find someone who does the job well and communicates clearly.
What should I avoid when hiring catering companies in Lisbon?
Avoid paying the full amount up front (a deposit can be fair), anyone who will not give a clear quote, and unusually cheap prices that get padded with extras later.
How do I explain what I need if my Portuguese is limited?
A photo, a short video or a written list does most of the talking, and the professionals we list are used to international clients. Booking an English-speaking one takes the stress out of it entirely.
How do you say catering companies in Portuguese?
In Portuguese, catering companies are usually called empresas de catering. That is the word to search for or to ask a neighbour, though many professionals here are used to the English term too.
How do I find catering companies I can trust in Lisbon?
Check the reviews and any credentials before you book. On Locallista the reviews are phone-verified and the ranking is based on real expat experience, not who paid the most.
Selecting the ideal catering company is crucial to ensuring your event is memorable and enjoyable for all attendees. With the right approach, including effective communication and a focus on quality, you can elevate your dining experience. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you'll be prepared to navigate the catering landscape with confidence, steering clear of common pitfalls while connecting with a provider who can meet your needs. Remember, a successful event starts with thoughtful planning, and the right caterer can turn your vision into a delicious reality.
Dos and Don’ts as an expat
Key dos and don’ts for selecting the perfect catering service for your event
Do’s
Do Prioritize Communication and Responsiveness
Select a catering service provider who demonstrates excellent communication skills from the outset. The right partner will promptly respond to inquiries, proactively provide updates, and remain available for any adjustments needed, ensuring a seamless planning experience.
Do Evaluate Menu Flexibility and Customization Options
Opt for a caterer that offers a variety of customizable menu options to accommodate your guests' dietary preferences and restrictions. Look for providers who are willing to tailor their offerings, ensuring every attendee finds something delicious to enjoy.
Do Consider Personalization and Unique Dining Experiences
Choose a catering service that excels in creating tailor-made experiences. A personal touch in menu selection and presentation can elevate your event, making it feel more special and memorable for both you and your guests.
Do Assess Quality and Freshness of Food
Make sure to inquire about the quality and freshness of ingredients used by potential caterers. High-quality, fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor of the food but also reflect the professionalism and commitment of the catering provider.
Dont’s
Don't Ignore Communication Issues
Avoid catering companies with a history of poor communication. Reviews indicate that many customers value timely and clear communication before, during, and after the service, which can greatly impact your event's success.
Don't Assume Dietary Needs Will Be Accommodated
Be cautious of catering services that don’t explicitly mention their ability to handle special dietary requirements. Past reviews highlight the importance of confirming that the caterer can meet specific requests for allergies or preferences to avoid unsatisfactory experiences.
Don't Rely Solely on Online Reviews
While online reviews are beneficial, do not base your entire decision on them. It's essential to reach out and ask questions to gauge the caterer's responsiveness and service quality, as personal experiences can vary significantly.
Don't Overlook Set-Up and Clean-Up Charges
Ensure you clarify any additional charges related to set-up and clean-up with the catering service upfront. Customers have mentioned unexpected costs that affected their budget, so clear agreements before the event are crucial.