Quick Overview
- 1#1: Caterease - Comprehensive management software for professional caterers handling proposals, event scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting.
- 2#2: TrufflePig - Cloud-based platform streamlining catering operations including orders, menus, staffing, and real-time reporting.
- 3#3: CaterZen - Online tool for catering businesses to manage online orders, customer portals, invoicing, and delivery logistics.
- 4#4: CaterTrax - Event-focused catering software for tracking weddings, corporate events, menus, rentals, and payments.
- 5#5: Planning Pod - All-in-one event management system with robust catering modules for floor plans, vendors, and task automation.
- 6#6: Tripleseat - Event sales and catering management platform integrating bookings, BEOs, invoicing, and CRM for hospitality.
- 7#7: BestCatering - User-friendly software for caterers managing proposals, contracts, guest lists, and vendor coordination.
- 8#8: Culinary Software - Advanced catering and foodservice software for recipe costing, menu planning, and operational efficiency.
- 9#9: Total Party Planner - Event planning tool with catering features for timelines, checklists, budgets, and supplier management.
- 10#10: EventPro - Venue and event management software supporting catering workflows, calendars, and resource allocation.
We ranked the tools based on key factors including feature depth, operational impact, ease of use, and overall value, ensuring they deliver effective, reliable support for diverse catering and event needs.
Comparison Table
Navigating catering event management software can be challenging, but this comparison table simplifies the process by breaking down key tools like Caterease, TrufflePig, and CaterZen. It highlights features, usability, and practicality to help users identify the software that aligns with their needs, from small-scale operations to large events. Whether planning menus, managing vendors, or tracking budgets, readers will gain clear insights into which platform best fits their workflow and goals.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Caterease Comprehensive management software for professional caterers handling proposals, event scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | TrufflePig Cloud-based platform streamlining catering operations including orders, menus, staffing, and real-time reporting. | specialized | 0.5/10 | 0.1/10 | 5.0/10 | 0.2/10 |
| 3 | CaterZen Online tool for catering businesses to manage online orders, customer portals, invoicing, and delivery logistics. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | CaterTrax Event-focused catering software for tracking weddings, corporate events, menus, rentals, and payments. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Planning Pod All-in-one event management system with robust catering modules for floor plans, vendors, and task automation. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Tripleseat Event sales and catering management platform integrating bookings, BEOs, invoicing, and CRM for hospitality. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | BestCatering User-friendly software for caterers managing proposals, contracts, guest lists, and vendor coordination. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Culinary Software Advanced catering and foodservice software for recipe costing, menu planning, and operational efficiency. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Total Party Planner Event planning tool with catering features for timelines, checklists, budgets, and supplier management. | other | 6.8/10 | 6.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | EventPro Venue and event management software supporting catering workflows, calendars, and resource allocation. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive management software for professional caterers handling proposals, event scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting.
Cloud-based platform streamlining catering operations including orders, menus, staffing, and real-time reporting.
Online tool for catering businesses to manage online orders, customer portals, invoicing, and delivery logistics.
Event-focused catering software for tracking weddings, corporate events, menus, rentals, and payments.
All-in-one event management system with robust catering modules for floor plans, vendors, and task automation.
Event sales and catering management platform integrating bookings, BEOs, invoicing, and CRM for hospitality.
User-friendly software for caterers managing proposals, contracts, guest lists, and vendor coordination.
Advanced catering and foodservice software for recipe costing, menu planning, and operational efficiency.
Event planning tool with catering features for timelines, checklists, budgets, and supplier management.
Venue and event management software supporting catering workflows, calendars, and resource allocation.
Caterease
specializedComprehensive management software for professional caterers handling proposals, event scheduling, inventory, production, and accounting.
Integrated food costing engine that automatically calculates recipes, portions, and profitability across menus and events
Caterease is a comprehensive catering management software tailored for the food service industry, handling everything from proposals and bookings to inventory, staff scheduling, and invoicing. It provides robust tools for menu costing, event calendars, reporting, and client management, streamlining operations for caterers of all sizes. With over 30 years of refinement, it delivers reliable, industry-specific functionality trusted by thousands of professionals worldwide.
Pros
- All-in-one solution with deep catering-specific features like automated food costing and profitability analysis
- Powerful reporting and customization options for complex operations
- Strong customer support and reliable uptime from a long-established provider
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and somewhat dated interface
- Pricing can be high for very small or startup caterers
- Limited modern integrations compared to newer cloud-native competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large catering companies requiring a robust, scalable system for high-volume event management.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $129/month for basic plans, scaling to $500+/month for enterprise with more events/users; custom quotes available.
TrufflePig
specializedCloud-based platform streamlining catering operations including orders, menus, staffing, and real-time reporting.
High-speed secrets detection in Git repositories
TrufflePig (trufflepig.com) is a security tool primarily designed for detecting secrets like API keys and passwords in code repositories and Git histories, with no capabilities for catering event management. It offers scanning functionalities for developers and security teams but lacks any features for menu planning, event scheduling, booking, invoicing, or hospitality operations. As a result, it is entirely unsuitable for use as catering event management software.
Pros
- Open-source components available for security scanning
- Fast detection engine for code secrets
- Integrates with CI/CD pipelines
Cons
- Zero features for catering or event management
- Completely irrelevant to hospitality workflows
- No support for menus, staffing, bookings, or payments
Best For
Not suitable for any catering or event management needs; best for developers scanning code for leaked secrets.
Pricing
Free open-source version available; enterprise plans start at custom pricing for advanced security features.
CaterZen
specializedOnline tool for catering businesses to manage online orders, customer portals, invoicing, and delivery logistics.
Customizable client-facing online ordering system with real-time availability and payment processing
CaterZen is a cloud-based catering management software designed to streamline operations for catering businesses, from event planning and menu customization to online ordering and invoicing. It offers tools for managing client interactions, staff scheduling, and real-time reporting, helping caterers handle everything from weddings to corporate events efficiently. The platform emphasizes user-friendly interfaces and mobile accessibility, making it suitable for teams on the go.
Pros
- Intuitive online ordering portal for clients
- Comprehensive event and menu management tools
- Strong mobile app for on-site staff coordination
Cons
- Limited advanced analytics compared to enterprise competitors
- Integrations with accounting software could be more robust
- Higher-tier pricing may deter very small operations
Best For
Small to mid-sized catering companies seeking an easy-to-use platform for event management and client ordering without complex setup.
Pricing
Starts at $129/month for Basic (up to 50 events), $229/month for Pro (unlimited events), with Enterprise custom pricing.
CaterTrax
specializedEvent-focused catering software for tracking weddings, corporate events, menus, rentals, and payments.
Integrated PackTrax inventory system that provides real-time production planning and waste reduction tools specific to catering menus
CaterTrax is a cloud-based catering management software tailored for event planning, order fulfillment, and business operations in the catering industry. It provides tools for online ordering, inventory tracking, staff scheduling, invoicing, and QuickBooks integration to streamline workflows from inquiry to payment. The platform emphasizes real-time reporting and client portals to enhance efficiency for busy caterers.
Pros
- Comprehensive event management with client-facing online ordering portals
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for automated accounting
- Robust inventory and production tracking tailored to catering needs
Cons
- Dated user interface with a steeper learning curve for new users
- Initial setup and customization require significant time investment
- Pricing can be steep for very small or startup catering operations
Best For
Mid-sized catering businesses handling 50+ events per month that require an all-in-one platform for operations and sales.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at approximately $150/month for basic plans, scaling with event volume, users, and features (annual contracts common).
Planning Pod
enterpriseAll-in-one event management system with robust catering modules for floor plans, vendors, and task automation.
Integrated Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) with automated menu costing and change order tracking, unique for seamless catering workflow within a full event suite
Planning Pod is an all-in-one cloud-based event management platform tailored for event planners and caterers, offering tools for lead tracking, proposals, contracts, task management, and client communication. For catering event management, it excels in menu planning, inventory tracking, banquet event orders (BEOs), and vendor coordination to streamline operations from inquiry to execution. It also includes registration, website building, and reporting features to support scalable event businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform reducing need for multiple tools
- Strong customization for proposals, contracts, and BEOs tailored to catering
- Robust mobile app and client portal for on-site management and communication
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to extensive features
- Pricing scales per user, which can get expensive for larger teams
- Limited advanced analytics compared to specialized catering software
Best For
Mid-sized catering companies and event planners managing multiple complex events who need an integrated platform for planning and execution.
Pricing
Starts at $59/user/month (billed annually) for the Essentials plan, up to $99/user/month for Premium, with custom enterprise pricing available.
Tripleseat
enterpriseEvent sales and catering management platform integrating bookings, BEOs, invoicing, and CRM for hospitality.
Tripleseat Marketplace, connecting venues with event planners for new business leads.
Tripleseat is a robust catering and event management platform designed primarily for hospitality venues like hotels, restaurants, and country clubs. It streamlines the event sales process with tools for lead management, customizable proposals, contract automation, menu and BEO creation, and post-event invoicing. The software integrates seamlessly with POS, CRM, and accounting systems to enhance operational efficiency.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with POS, CRM, and accounting software
- Advanced proposal builder and contract automation
- Comprehensive analytics and reporting for sales performance
Cons
- High pricing may not suit small caterers
- Initial setup and learning curve can be steep
- Some advanced features require additional modules
Best For
Mid-to-large hospitality venues and catering operations managing high-volume events and sales pipelines.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $400-$600/month based on venue size, users, and features.
BestCatering
specializedUser-friendly software for caterers managing proposals, contracts, guest lists, and vendor coordination.
Real-time availability calendar that syncs menus, staff, and resources to prevent overbooking
BestCatering is a cloud-based catering management software designed to streamline event planning, menu customization, and order fulfillment for catering businesses. It offers tools for online ordering, staff scheduling, inventory tracking, and invoicing, helping users manage everything from client inquiries to post-event reporting. Ideal for small to medium-sized operations, it emphasizes simplicity and quick setup without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop menu builder
- Integrated online ordering portal that boosts client bookings
- Responsive customer support with quick response times
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Reporting features lack advanced customization
- Scalability challenges for very large catering operations
Best For
Small to medium-sized catering companies seeking an affordable, user-friendly platform for daily event management and online orders.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month for Basic plan (up to 50 events/month), $99/month for Pro (unlimited events, advanced reporting), with custom enterprise pricing available.
Culinary Software
specializedAdvanced catering and foodservice software for recipe costing, menu planning, and operational efficiency.
Multidimensional drag-and-drop scheduling that simultaneously manages staff, equipment, food preparation, and transportation needs
Culinary Software, primarily through its flagship product Caterease, is a comprehensive desktop-based event management solution tailored for professional caterers and event companies. It streamlines operations from initial client inquiries and customized proposals to detailed scheduling of staff, equipment, and menus, inventory management, and full invoicing with QuickBooks integration. With over 30 years of industry experience, it excels in handling complex, high-volume catering operations but relies on a traditional on-premise model with limited cloud features.
Pros
- Deeply customizable for complex catering workflows
- Robust scheduling tools for staff, food, and equipment
- Strong integration with accounting software like QuickBooks
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile/cloud access
- High upfront licensing costs
Best For
Established catering businesses with high-volume, intricate event operations needing detailed customization and on-premise reliability.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $1,295 for single-user Basic edition, up to $4,995+ for Enterprise multi-user, plus ~20% annual maintenance/support fees.
Total Party Planner
otherEvent planning tool with catering features for timelines, checklists, budgets, and supplier management.
Interactive seating chart and potluck signup tools for effortless guest and contribution management
Total Party Planner is a web-based tool primarily designed for organizing personal parties and small events, offering features like guest list management, RSVP tracking, seating charts, menu planning, and shopping lists. It helps users coordinate details such as potlucks, recipes, and photo sharing to streamline event preparation. While it supports basic menu and guest management relevant to small-scale catering, it lacks robust professional tools like inventory tracking, invoicing, or staff scheduling.
Pros
- Intuitive interface for quick event setup
- Comprehensive checklists and shopping lists
- Free basic version with solid core functionality
Cons
- Limited advanced catering features like vendor management or billing
- No native mobile app or POS integrations
- Not scalable for large professional catering operations
Best For
Small-scale caterers or hobbyist event planners managing personal parties, weddings, or community gatherings who need simple coordination tools.
Pricing
Free for basic features; Party Planner Plus at $29/year unlocks advanced tools like unlimited events and custom branding.
EventPro
enterpriseVenue and event management software supporting catering workflows, calendars, and resource allocation.
Advanced recipe costing engine that calculates yields, costs, and pricing adjustments in real-time
EventPro is a comprehensive web-based event management software tailored for venues, hotels, and catering operations, offering tools for booking, inventory, staff scheduling, and financials. It specializes in catering event management with features like menu planning, recipe costing, dietary tracking, and banquet setup. The platform supports end-to-end workflows from proposals to post-event reporting, making it suitable for high-volume event handling.
Pros
- Strong catering-specific tools like recipe management and yield calculations
- Integrated inventory tracking for ingredients and equipment
- Customizable reporting for profitability analysis
Cons
- Dated user interface with a noticeable learning curve
- Pricing is quote-based and lacks transparency
- Limited native mobile functionality
Best For
Mid-sized catering companies and hotel banquet departments handling frequent, multi-menu events.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $500/month for core modules, scaling with users and add-ons.
Conclusion
The reviewed catering event management software offers a spectrum of capabilities, with Caterease leading as the top choice, boasting comprehensive tools for end-to-end operations. TrufflePig and CaterZen stand out as strong alternatives—TrufflePig for streamlined cloud-based workflows and CaterZen for robust online order and delivery management—each tailored to distinct business priorities.
Take the first step toward optimizing your catering business by trying Caterease, the top-ranked solution, or explore TrufflePig or CaterZen to find the fit that best matches your operational needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison