Quick Overview
- 1#1: Caterease - All-in-one catering management software handling proposals, production, inventory, and invoicing.
- 2#2: Planning Pod - Integrated event and catering platform for planning, booking, and operations management.
- 3#3: CaterZen - Online ordering and catering management system streamlining customer orders and fulfillment.
- 4#4: PerfectVenue - Venue and catering software for event booking, BEOs, invoicing, and payments.
- 5#5: CaterTrax - Cloud-based catering operations software for menus, scheduling, and reporting.
- 6#6: Tripleseat - Event sales and catering management platform focused on bookings and CRM integration.
- 7#7: Event Temple - Event management software with catering tools for proposals, contracts, and task tracking.
- 8#8: Culinary Communicator - Event communication and catering coordination platform for teams and clients.
- 9#9: Tracmor - Inventory and order management software tailored for mobile catering businesses.
- 10#10: Caterbook - Simple catering software for quotes, orders, and dispatch management.
We evaluated these tools based on robust feature sets addressing core catering tasks, high-quality performance, intuitive usability, and strong value proposition, ensuring they deliver exceptional support for modern catering operations.
Comparison Table
Explore the key features of leading catering business software with this comparison table, showcasing tools like Caterease, Planning Pod, CaterZen, PerfectVenue, CaterTrax, and more. Discover how each platform streamlines event planning, inventory management, and client communication, helping readers identify the option that best fits their business needs. Whether focused on efficiency, scalability, or specific industry demands, this guide simplifies the process of selecting the right software to boost operational success.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Caterease All-in-one catering management software handling proposals, production, inventory, and invoicing. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Planning Pod Integrated event and catering platform for planning, booking, and operations management. | specialized | 8.9/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | CaterZen Online ordering and catering management system streamlining customer orders and fulfillment. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | PerfectVenue Venue and catering software for event booking, BEOs, invoicing, and payments. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | CaterTrax Cloud-based catering operations software for menus, scheduling, and reporting. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Tripleseat Event sales and catering management platform focused on bookings and CRM integration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Event Temple Event management software with catering tools for proposals, contracts, and task tracking. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | Culinary Communicator Event communication and catering coordination platform for teams and clients. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | Tracmor Inventory and order management software tailored for mobile catering businesses. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Caterbook Simple catering software for quotes, orders, and dispatch management. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.3/10 |
All-in-one catering management software handling proposals, production, inventory, and invoicing.
Integrated event and catering platform for planning, booking, and operations management.
Online ordering and catering management system streamlining customer orders and fulfillment.
Venue and catering software for event booking, BEOs, invoicing, and payments.
Cloud-based catering operations software for menus, scheduling, and reporting.
Event sales and catering management platform focused on bookings and CRM integration.
Event management software with catering tools for proposals, contracts, and task tracking.
Event communication and catering coordination platform for teams and clients.
Inventory and order management software tailored for mobile catering businesses.
Simple catering software for quotes, orders, and dispatch management.
Caterease
specializedAll-in-one catering management software handling proposals, production, inventory, and invoicing.
Unlimited customizable function sheets and banquet books for precise event planning and costing
Caterease is a comprehensive, industry-leading catering management software designed exclusively for caterers, handling everything from client inquiries to post-event invoicing. It excels in creating professional proposals, managing event schedules, tracking inventory and costs, scheduling staff, and generating detailed reports. With both cloud and desktop options, it supports mobile access for on-the-go operations, making it a robust all-in-one solution for streamlining catering workflows.
Pros
- Deeply tailored features for catering operations like function sheets and menu costing
- Powerful automation for proposals, contracts, and invoicing
- Excellent reporting and inventory management with real-time updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization
- Higher upfront costs for desktop version
- Limited native integrations with non-catering tools
Best For
Mid-to-large catering businesses with complex event management needs requiring a specialized, feature-rich platform.
Pricing
Desktop perpetual licenses start at $1,495 for single-user plus annual maintenance (~20%); Cloud subscriptions from $99/user/month.
Planning Pod
specializedIntegrated event and catering platform for planning, booking, and operations management.
Customizable WorkCenter dashboard centralizing all event tasks, proposals, and resources in one intuitive hub
Planning Pod is a comprehensive all-in-one event management platform tailored for event planners, caterers, and venues, offering tools to handle everything from client leads and proposals to event execution and post-event reporting. For catering businesses, it excels in menu customization, inventory management, staff scheduling, purchasing orders, and invoicing with automated workflows. Its modular design allows users to focus on catering-specific needs while scaling for full event operations.
Pros
- All-in-one platform reduces need for multiple tools
- Powerful customization for proposals, menus, and contracts
- Strong reporting and analytics for business insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Pricing scales quickly with additional users
- Mobile app lacks some desktop functionalities
Best For
Mid-sized catering businesses managing multiple events that require integrated CRM, scheduling, and inventory tools.
Pricing
Starts at $59/user/month (Essentials plan, billed annually); Professional at $79/user/month; Enterprise at $99/user/month with custom options.
CaterZen
specializedOnline ordering and catering management system streamlining customer orders and fulfillment.
Drag-and-drop event planner with real-time availability calendar that syncs across team members and clients
CaterZen is a comprehensive cloud-based software platform tailored for catering businesses, enabling streamlined management of events from initial inquiries to post-event invoicing. It features customizable online ordering portals, menu builders, staff scheduling, and real-time inventory tracking to optimize operations. The tool also includes CRM capabilities, reporting dashboards, and integrations with payment gateways like Stripe and accounting software such as QuickBooks.
Pros
- Robust online ordering system with customizable storefronts
- Intuitive staff scheduling and mobile app for on-site management
- Strong reporting and analytics for business insights
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to top competitors
- Pricing can be steep for very small operations
- Occasional glitches in real-time inventory syncing reported by users
Best For
Medium-sized catering companies seeking an all-in-one solution for online bookings and event management without needing extensive custom development.
Pricing
Starts at $129/month for Basic (up to 50 events), $249/month for Pro (unlimited events + advanced features), and custom Enterprise pricing; annual discounts available.
PerfectVenue
specializedVenue and catering software for event booking, BEOs, invoicing, and payments.
Interactive Floor Plan Designer that allows real-time drag-and-drop event layouts with automatic capacity calculations and sharing
PerfectVenue is a cloud-based venue and event management software tailored for hospitality businesses, including those with catering operations, enabling seamless handling of bookings, event planning, and fulfillment. It features tools for interactive floor plans, menu management, banquet event orders (BEOs), staff scheduling, invoicing, and reporting to streamline operations from inquiry to execution. While versatile for catering tied to venues, it excels in end-to-end event lifecycle management rather than standalone off-site catering logistics.
Pros
- Powerful interactive floor plan designer for visualizing events
- Comprehensive BEO and menu management for catering coordination
- Integrated payments, invoicing, and reporting for efficient operations
Cons
- Primarily venue-focused, less optimized for pure off-site catering
- Pricing requires demo and can be steep for small businesses
- Advanced customization may involve a learning curve
Best For
Venue-based catering businesses managing on-site events, bookings, and operations who need robust event diagramming and BEO tools.
Pricing
Starts at approximately $149/month per venue for Essentials plan; higher tiers (Pro, Enterprise) scale to $499+/month based on features and volume (demo required for exact quotes).
CaterTrax
specializedCloud-based catering operations software for menus, scheduling, and reporting.
Integrated online ordering system with real-time inventory synchronization and customizable client portals
CaterTrax is a cloud-based catering management software tailored for catering businesses, providing end-to-end tools for event planning, online ordering, inventory tracking, staff scheduling, and invoicing. It supports everything from initial client inquiries and custom menu building to post-event reporting and QuickBooks integration. The platform emphasizes operational efficiency, helping caterers handle high-volume events with real-time data and client portals.
Pros
- Comprehensive catering-specific tools like plated counts, menu builders, and event calendars
- Robust online ordering and client portal for self-service bookings
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and detailed analytics for profitability insights
Cons
- Dated user interface that may require time to navigate
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Pricing can be high for small or startup caterers
Best For
Mid-sized catering businesses needing a full-featured platform for managing events, inventory, and client orders at scale.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $199/month for basic plans, scaling to $500+ for enterprise with custom quotes based on events/users.
Tripleseat
enterpriseEvent sales and catering management platform focused on bookings and CRM integration.
Integrated BEO builder that automatically generates detailed event orders from proposals, ensuring accuracy across sales and operations teams
Tripleseat is a robust event management and catering software platform primarily designed for hospitality venues like hotels, restaurants, and clubs to handle event sales, planning, and execution. It streamlines the process from lead generation and proposals to contract management, Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), invoicing, and post-event analysis. While powerful for on-premise catering and events, it may require customization for pure off-site catering businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive event workflow from RFP to invoice
- Strong integrations with POS, CRM, and accounting systems
- Detailed reporting and analytics for revenue optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be expensive for smaller operations
- Limited flexibility for highly customized off-site catering needs
Best For
Mid-to-large hospitality venues and on-premise catering businesses managing high-volume events.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting around $300-$500 per month per user or venue, with enterprise plans; requires sales quote.
Event Temple
specializedEvent management software with catering tools for proposals, contracts, and task tracking.
Automated proposal builder with drag-and-drop menu customization and real-time pricing updates
Event Temple is a cloud-based event management platform primarily designed for venues, planners, and caterers, offering tools for lead management, customizable proposals, e-sign contracts, payments, and event scheduling. For catering businesses, it excels in client-facing workflows like quoting menus and managing event details but falls short on operational catering needs such as inventory tracking or recipe costing. Overall, it streamlines the sales and booking process for off-premise catering events.
Pros
- Integrated CRM and proposal automation speeds up client quoting
- Built-in payments and e-signatures reduce admin time
- Customizable templates for menus and event packages
Cons
- Lacks dedicated catering tools like inventory or supplier management
- No robust mobile app for on-site staff coordination
- Higher pricing may not suit small-scale caterers
Best For
Mid-sized catering companies prioritizing sales pipelines and client management over back-of-house operations.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month (Starter), $399/month (Pro), custom Enterprise; 14-day free trial available.
Culinary Communicator
specializedEvent communication and catering coordination platform for teams and clients.
Real-time client portal for self-service menu selection, RSVPs, and payments
Culinary Communicator is a specialized software platform tailored for catering businesses, focusing on streamlining client communications, event scheduling, and order management. It provides tools like customizable digital menus, automated email/SMS reminders, and a client portal for real-time updates and payments. While it excels in communication features, it offers basic inventory and reporting capabilities suitable for smaller operations.
Pros
- User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop menu builder
- Strong automated messaging for client confirmations and follow-ups
- Affordable entry-level pricing with mobile app support
Cons
- Limited integrations with accounting or POS systems
- Basic reporting and analytics lacking depth
- No built-in inventory management or staff scheduling
Best For
Small catering businesses that prioritize simple client communication and event reminders over comprehensive operational tools.
Pricing
Starts at $39/month for basic plan (up to 50 events), $79/month pro, $149/month enterprise; 14-day free trial.
Tracmor
specializedInventory and order management software tailored for mobile catering businesses.
Perpetual inventory system with automatic depletion tracking from recipes and sales
Tracmor is a cloud-based inventory management platform tailored for foodservice operations like catering businesses, focusing on real-time stock tracking, recipe costing, and purchasing automation. It helps caterers maintain accurate inventory levels, monitor expiration dates, and calculate precise food costs to improve profitability. While strong in backend operations, it lacks comprehensive event booking or CRM tools found in full-suite catering software.
Pros
- Robust real-time inventory tracking with lot and expiration management
- Advanced recipe costing and yield calculations for precise pricing
- Mobile app for on-the-go inventory updates and receiving
Cons
- Limited catering-specific features like event scheduling or client management
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Pricing can escalate quickly for multi-location operations
Best For
Mid-sized catering businesses prioritizing inventory control and cost management over full event planning tools.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting around $150/month for small operations, billed per location or inventory volume; free demo required.
Caterbook
specializedSimple catering software for quotes, orders, and dispatch management.
Real-time online booking widget with automated availability and client self-service portal
Caterbook is a cloud-based catering management software tailored for small to medium-sized catering businesses, offering tools for online bookings, event scheduling, menu customization, staff rostering, and invoicing. It streamlines operations from client inquiries to post-event payments, with features like real-time availability calendars and supplier management. The platform emphasizes simplicity, making it suitable for caterers handling weddings, corporate events, and private functions without needing extensive technical expertise.
Pros
- User-friendly interface with quick setup
- Comprehensive all-in-one tools for daily operations
- Strong mobile app for on-the-go management
Cons
- Limited integrations with accounting or payment gateways
- Basic reporting and analytics compared to competitors
- Customer support can be slow during peak seasons
Best For
Small to medium catering businesses needing straightforward, affordable software for event booking and management without advanced customizations.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month (Starter plan) for core features, $99/month (Pro) for advanced tools, and custom Enterprise pricing; annual discounts available.
Conclusion
Among the top 10 catering business software tools reviewed, three stand out as exceptional choices. Leading is Caterease, an all-in-one platform that handles proposals, production, inventory, and invoicing seamlessly. Close behind are Planning Pod and CaterZen, strong alternatives—Planning Pod for integrated event and catering management, and CaterZen for streamlining customer orders and fulfillment. Each offers unique value, catering to different operational needs.
To elevate your catering business, start with Caterease to leverage its comprehensive features, or explore Planning Pod or CaterZen if their specialized tools align better with your workflow.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
