GITNUXBEST LIST

Food Service Restaurants

Top 10 Best Catering Invoice Software of 2026

Discover top catering invoice software to streamline billing & save time. Get your free guide and choose the best tools now!

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
Learn more
Catering invoice software is essential for managing billing, payments, and financial workflows, with a range of tools—from all-in-one management platforms to specialized accounting solutions—available to streamline operations. Choosing the right tool ensures accuracy, efficiency, and scalability, making it a critical investment for catering businesses of all sizes.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: Caterease - Comprehensive catering management software that streamlines proposals, event scheduling, and professional invoicing for caterers.
  2. 2#2: Tripleseat - Hospitality CRM platform designed for caterers to manage leads, contracts, payments, and automated invoicing.
  3. 3#3: Planning Pod - All-in-one event management tool with robust invoicing, billing, and financial tracking tailored for catering businesses.
  4. 4#4: CaterZen - Cloud-based catering software for handling sales, operations, menus, and seamless invoice generation and payments.
  5. 5#5: FoodStorm - Online ordering and catering platform with integrated invoicing, payments, and order management for caterers.
  6. 6#6: PerfectVenue - Event and venue management software featuring customizable invoicing and contract tools for catering operations.
  7. 7#7: QuickBooks - Powerful accounting software with customizable templates, inventory tracking, and invoicing ideal for catering businesses.
  8. 8#8: FreshBooks - User-friendly invoicing and accounting tool with time tracking and expense management suited for service-based caterers.
  9. 9#9: Xero - Cloud accounting platform offering automated invoicing, bank reconciliation, and reporting for catering financials.
  10. 10#10: Zoho Invoice - Affordable invoicing software with automation, multi-currency support, and client portals adaptable for catering services.

Tools were selected based on key features like automation, customization, integration, and user experience, balanced with overall quality and value to deliver solutions that effectively address the unique needs of catering operations.

Comparison Table

Efficient invoicing is critical for smooth catering operations, and choosing the right software can enhance productivity. This comparison table features top tools like Caterease, Tripleseat, Planning Pod, CaterZen, FoodStorm, and more, detailing their key features, pricing models, and strengths. Readers will gain actionable insights to select the software that best fits their catering business’s specific needs.

1Caterease logo9.6/10

Comprehensive catering management software that streamlines proposals, event scheduling, and professional invoicing for caterers.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
9.2/10
2Tripleseat logo9.1/10

Hospitality CRM platform designed for caterers to manage leads, contracts, payments, and automated invoicing.

Features
9.5/10
Ease
8.6/10
Value
8.7/10

All-in-one event management tool with robust invoicing, billing, and financial tracking tailored for catering businesses.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
8.4/10
4CaterZen logo8.4/10

Cloud-based catering software for handling sales, operations, menus, and seamless invoice generation and payments.

Features
8.8/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
7.9/10
5FoodStorm logo8.1/10

Online ordering and catering platform with integrated invoicing, payments, and order management for caterers.

Features
8.6/10
Ease
7.9/10
Value
7.7/10

Event and venue management software featuring customizable invoicing and contract tools for catering operations.

Features
8.2/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
7.0/10
7QuickBooks logo7.2/10

Powerful accounting software with customizable templates, inventory tracking, and invoicing ideal for catering businesses.

Features
6.8/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
7.0/10
8FreshBooks logo7.8/10

User-friendly invoicing and accounting tool with time tracking and expense management suited for service-based caterers.

Features
7.5/10
Ease
9.2/10
Value
7.6/10
9Xero logo7.8/10

Cloud accounting platform offering automated invoicing, bank reconciliation, and reporting for catering financials.

Features
7.5/10
Ease
8.5/10
Value
8.2/10
10Zoho Invoice logo7.6/10

Affordable invoicing software with automation, multi-currency support, and client portals adaptable for catering services.

Features
7.2/10
Ease
8.4/10
Value
8.8/10
1
Caterease logo

Caterease

specialized

Comprehensive catering management software that streamlines proposals, event scheduling, and professional invoicing for caterers.

Overall Rating9.6/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
9.2/10
Standout Feature

One-click proposal-to-invoice conversion that auto-populates all event specifics, costs, and taxes for error-free billing

Caterease is a comprehensive catering management software designed specifically for the hospitality industry, offering end-to-end tools from event proposals and booking to inventory management and invoicing. It excels in automating the invoicing process by seamlessly converting detailed proposals into customizable invoices that include labor, equipment, and menu costs. With robust reporting, real-time data syncing across modules, and options for both cloud and on-premise deployment, it empowers caterers to handle complex operations efficiently.

Pros

  • Seamless integration of event details into automated, customizable invoices
  • Comprehensive inventory and cost tracking tied directly to billing
  • Excellent reporting and analytics for profitability insights

Cons

  • Steep initial learning curve for advanced features
  • Higher pricing may deter small operations
  • Limited native mobile app; relies on web access

Best For

Mid-sized to large catering businesses needing a full-suite solution for event management and precise invoicing.

Pricing

Cloud starts at $129/month (1-2 users), scales to $500+/month for enterprises; on-premise custom quotes.

Visit Catereasecaterease.com
2
Tripleseat logo

Tripleseat

specialized

Hospitality CRM platform designed for caterers to manage leads, contracts, payments, and automated invoicing.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.5/10
Ease of Use
8.6/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

Automated invoice generation from event contracts and BEOs, including dynamic pricing for deposits, taxes, and gratuities

Tripleseat is a comprehensive catering and event management platform designed for hospitality venues, streamlining everything from event proposals and contracts to invoicing and payments. It automates invoice generation based on event details like menus, headcounts, and taxes, ensuring accuracy and efficiency for catering operations. With robust integrations to POS systems, QuickBooks, and payment processors, it handles deposits, final bills, and reporting seamlessly. While broader than pure invoicing software, its invoicing capabilities are highly regarded in the catering industry.

Pros

  • Seamless integration of event data into automated, customizable invoices
  • Strong reporting and analytics for revenue tracking and forecasting
  • Extensive integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and payment gateways

Cons

  • Pricing can be steep for small catering operations
  • Full feature set has a learning curve beyond basic invoicing
  • Customization often requires vendor support or add-ons

Best For

Mid-to-large catering companies and venues managing high-volume events that need integrated invoicing tied to bookings and BEOs.

Pricing

Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $500/month per venue, with tiers based on events and users; quotes required.

Visit Tripleseattripleseat.com
3
Planning Pod logo

Planning Pod

specialized

All-in-one event management tool with robust invoicing, billing, and financial tracking tailored for catering businesses.

Overall Rating8.6/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
8.4/10
Standout Feature

Event-synced invoicing that automatically generates bills from confirmed bookings, menus, and guest counts

Planning Pod is a comprehensive event management platform designed for caterers and event professionals, offering robust invoicing tools integrated with booking, planning, and CRM features. It enables users to generate customizable invoices directly from event details, menus, and contracts, while tracking payments and expenses in real-time. The software supports QuickBooks integration and online payment processing, making it ideal for streamlining financial workflows in catering operations.

Pros

  • Seamless integration of invoicing with event planning and booking calendars
  • Customizable invoice templates with menu and inventory auto-population
  • Strong reporting and QuickBooks/Xero sync for accurate financial tracking

Cons

  • Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set beyond just invoicing
  • Pricing scales with users and features, which may be costly for small teams
  • Mobile app lacks full invoicing functionality compared to desktop

Best For

Mid-sized catering companies managing multiple events that require integrated planning, booking, and invoicing in one platform.

Pricing

Starts at $59/user/month (Essentials), $79/user/month (Professional), $99/user/month (Enterprise); annual billing discounts available, with a 30-day free trial.

Visit Planning Podplanningpod.com
4
CaterZen logo

CaterZen

specialized

Cloud-based catering software for handling sales, operations, menus, and seamless invoice generation and payments.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.8/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
7.9/10
Standout Feature

Real-time invoice updates synced with online orders and customer portals for instant payment processing

CaterZen is a cloud-based catering management software tailored for caterers, emphasizing streamlined invoicing, event scheduling, and online ordering. It enables users to generate customizable invoices, track deposits and payments, automate reminders, and integrate with tools like QuickBooks for seamless accounting. The platform also supports menu management, client portals, and real-time reporting to optimize catering operations.

Pros

  • Comprehensive invoicing with deposit tracking and automated reminders
  • Integrated online ordering and client self-service portal
  • Strong integrations with payment gateways and accounting software

Cons

  • Pricing can be steep for very small operations
  • Reporting features lack advanced customization
  • Mobile app has occasional sync issues

Best For

Mid-sized catering businesses needing robust invoicing tied to event management and online sales.

Pricing

Starts at $129/month for Starter (up to 5 users), $229/month for Pro, and custom Enterprise plans.

Visit CaterZencaterzen.com
5
FoodStorm logo

FoodStorm

specialized

Online ordering and catering platform with integrated invoicing, payments, and order management for caterers.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.6/10
Ease of Use
7.9/10
Value
7.7/10
Standout Feature

Seamless auto-generation of professional invoices from customer online catering orders.

FoodStorm is a robust online ordering and catering management platform that includes specialized invoicing tools tailored for caterers. It automates invoice creation from orders, handles deposits, balances, taxes, and custom line items seamlessly within the catering workflow. The software integrates invoicing with menu management, scheduling, and payments for a streamlined end-to-end process.

Pros

  • Automated invoicing directly from online orders
  • Customizable invoice templates with branding options
  • Integrations with QuickBooks and POS systems for easy accounting

Cons

  • Higher pricing tiers limit accessibility for small caterers
  • Learning curve for full feature utilization
  • Reporting and analytics not as advanced as dedicated accounting tools

Best For

Growing catering companies needing integrated online ordering and invoicing without separate billing software.

Pricing

Plans start at $145/month (Launch), $245/month (Growth), with custom Enterprise pricing.

Visit FoodStormfoodstorm.com
6
PerfectVenue logo

PerfectVenue

specialized

Event and venue management software featuring customizable invoicing and contract tools for catering operations.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
8.2/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
7.0/10
Standout Feature

Automated conversion of Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) into customizable invoices

PerfectVenue is a venue management platform that includes robust invoicing tools tailored for event and catering services, enabling users to generate detailed invoices directly from Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and event contracts. It streamlines billing by tracking deposits, final payments, and recurring charges while integrating with payment processors like Stripe and QuickBooks. While powerful for venues offering catering, it provides comprehensive event oversight beyond standalone invoicing.

Pros

  • Seamless BEO-to-invoice automation for catering events
  • Strong integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks
  • Mobile app for on-site payment processing and updates

Cons

  • Primarily designed for venues, overkill for pure catering operations
  • Pricing scales quickly with multiple locations or advanced features
  • Moderate learning curve for non-venue users

Best For

Event venues with integrated catering services needing end-to-end invoicing tied to bookings.

Pricing

Starts at $99 per venue per month for basic plans; custom pricing for Pro and Enterprise tiers with more features.

Visit PerfectVenueperfectvenue.com
7
QuickBooks logo

QuickBooks

enterprise

Powerful accounting software with customizable templates, inventory tracking, and invoicing ideal for catering businesses.

Overall Rating7.2/10
Features
6.8/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
7.0/10
Standout Feature

Progress invoicing for billing clients in stages based on event milestones

QuickBooks is a comprehensive accounting software from Intuit that offers robust invoicing capabilities, allowing catering businesses to create customizable invoices, track payments, and manage expenses. It integrates invoicing with full bookkeeping features like profit/loss tracking and tax preparation, making it suitable for small to medium catering operations. However, it lacks specialized tools for catering-specific needs such as menu builders or event scheduling templates.

Pros

  • Highly customizable invoices with branding and line item details
  • Seamless integration with payment processors like QuickBooks Payments for fast collections
  • Built-in reporting for profitability on catering jobs and events

Cons

  • No dedicated catering features like event calendars or recipe costing
  • Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features like inventory tracking
  • Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with accounting software

Best For

Small catering businesses needing integrated accounting and invoicing rather than standalone billing tools.

Pricing

Starts at $30/month (Simple Start) for basic invoicing; Plus plan at $90/month includes inventory; billed annually for discounts.

Visit QuickBooksquickbooks.intuit.com
8
FreshBooks logo

FreshBooks

other

User-friendly invoicing and accounting tool with time tracking and expense management suited for service-based caterers.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
7.5/10
Ease of Use
9.2/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Retainer and deposit billing, perfect for securing catering event payments upfront

FreshBooks is a user-friendly cloud-based accounting platform tailored for small businesses and freelancers, with strong invoicing tools for creating professional bills, tracking payments, and managing expenses. For catering businesses, it enables customizable invoices with detailed line items for menus, services, deposits, and taxes, plus automation for reminders and recurring billing. While versatile, it functions as general invoicing software rather than a dedicated catering solution with event management or menu builders.

Pros

  • Highly intuitive interface ideal for non-accountants
  • Customizable invoice templates with photos and detailed descriptions for catering menus
  • Seamless payment integrations (Stripe, PayPal) and automated reminders

Cons

  • Lacks catering-specific features like event scheduling or inventory for ingredients
  • Reporting is basic, not optimized for catering operations or profitability per event
  • Higher tiers required for unlimited clients and advanced automation

Best For

Small catering businesses or solopreneurs needing simple, professional invoicing integrated with basic accounting.

Pricing

Lite ($19/mo billed annually: 5 clients, 50 expenses); Plus ($33/mo: 50 clients); Premium ($60/mo: unlimited); Teams ($10/user/mo extra).

Visit FreshBooksfreshbooks.com
9
Xero logo

Xero

enterprise

Cloud accounting platform offering automated invoicing, bank reconciliation, and reporting for catering financials.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
7.5/10
Ease of Use
8.5/10
Value
8.2/10
Standout Feature

Real-time bank feeds and automatic reconciliation for effortless tracking of catering event payments and deposits

Xero is a cloud-based accounting platform with strong invoicing tools that cater businesses can use to create professional, customizable invoices for events, track payments, and manage expenses. It supports inventory tracking for menu items, recurring billing for regular clients, and integrations with payment gateways for quick deposits and final payments. While versatile for general small business accounting, it adapts well to catering needs like multi-line item invoices and tax calculations but lacks niche features like event scheduling or menu builders.

Pros

  • Customizable invoice templates with branding for professional catering proposals
  • Automatic bank reconciliation and payment tracking to handle deposits and finals efficiently
  • Integrates with 1,000+ apps including Stripe and QuickBooks for expanded catering workflows

Cons

  • No built-in catering-specific tools like event calendars, menu customization, or perishable inventory alerts
  • Basic inventory management not optimized for food quantities or waste tracking
  • Higher-tier plans required for unlimited users and advanced reporting

Best For

Small to medium catering businesses seeking comprehensive accounting software with reliable invoicing rather than specialized catering tools.

Pricing

Starter plan at $20/month (20 invoices/bills), Standard at $37/month (unlimited), Premium at $70/month (with multi-currency and project tracking); 30-day free trial.

Visit Xeroxero.com
10
Zoho Invoice logo

Zoho Invoice

other

Affordable invoicing software with automation, multi-currency support, and client portals adaptable for catering services.

Overall Rating7.6/10
Features
7.2/10
Ease of Use
8.4/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Highly customizable invoice templates with image embedding, perfect for displaying catering menus and packages visually.

Zoho Invoice is a versatile cloud-based invoicing tool designed for small businesses to create, send, and manage professional invoices with features like automation, online payments, and client portals. For catering businesses, it supports customizable templates for menu items, event deposits, and recurring billing for ongoing clients. While effective for basic invoicing needs, it lacks specialized catering tools like event calendars or integrated menu builders, making it a solid general-purpose option rather than a niche solution.

Pros

  • Generous free plan with unlimited invoices for basic use
  • Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop customization
  • Seamless integrations with payment gateways like Stripe and PayPal

Cons

  • No built-in catering-specific features like event scheduling or menu automation
  • Limited advanced inventory tracking for perishables
  • Customer support primarily email-based with slower response times

Best For

Small catering businesses needing affordable, straightforward invoicing for events without complex CRM or scheduling requirements.

Pricing

Free plan (up to 5 customers, unlimited invoices); paid plans start at $9/organization/month (billed annually) for Basic, up to $29 for Professional.

Visit Zoho Invoicezoho.com/invoice

Conclusion

The reviewed catering invoice software offers diverse solutions, from Caterease's streamlined proposal and scheduling tools to Tripleseat's CRM-focused management and Planning Pod's all-in-one event management. Caterease stands out as the top choice, excelling in comprehensive operations. Tripleseat and Planning Pod also impress, each offering strong alternatives for specific needs like lead management or integrated billing. Ultimately, the best pick depends on business priorities, but Caterease leads with its holistic functionality.

Caterease logo
Our Top Pick
Caterease

Start with Caterease to experience seamless invoicing and operations management, then explore Tripleseat or Planning Pod if their tailored features better suit your workflow.