Quick Overview
- 1#1: Caterease - Comprehensive all-in-one catering management software for handling events, proposals, inventory, staff scheduling, and accounting.
- 2#2: Planning Pod - All-in-one event management platform with robust catering tools for planning, booking, payments, and client communication.
- 3#3: Tripleseat - Event sales and catering management software that streamlines proposals, contracts, invoicing, and guest management for caterers.
- 4#4: CaterZen - Cloud-based catering software focused on online ordering, quotes, customer portals, and operational workflows.
- 5#5: CaterTrax - End-to-end cloud catering management system for events, menus, inventory tracking, and financial reporting.
- 6#6: CulinaryPro Software - Professional catering software for creating customized proposals, managing events, scheduling, and invoicing.
- 7#7: SmartCaterer - Cloud-based platform for catering operations including online menus, order management, and delivery tracking.
- 8#8: Eve Catering - Full-featured catering software for booking, production planning, dispatch, and real-time event management.
- 9#9: Caterbook - Catering CRM and booking software that handles inquiries, quotes, orders, and supplier coordination.
- 10#10: Total Party Planner - Event and catering planning software with tools for guest lists, seating, menus, and vendor management.
Tools were selected and ranked based on feature robustness, user experience, technical reliability, and total value, ensuring focus on both comprehensive functionality and practical, cost-effective performance.
Comparison Table
For caterers and event planners, selecting the right software is crucial for organizing workflows, client interactions, and growing operations. This comparison table examines top tools including Caterease, Planning Pod, Tripleseat, CaterZen, CaterTrax, and more, highlighting key features, usability, and practical applications. Readers will discover which solution aligns best with their unique business needs, from menu creation to scheduling.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Caterease Comprehensive all-in-one catering management software for handling events, proposals, inventory, staff scheduling, and accounting. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Planning Pod All-in-one event management platform with robust catering tools for planning, booking, payments, and client communication. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Tripleseat Event sales and catering management software that streamlines proposals, contracts, invoicing, and guest management for caterers. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | CaterZen Cloud-based catering software focused on online ordering, quotes, customer portals, and operational workflows. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | CaterTrax End-to-end cloud catering management system for events, menus, inventory tracking, and financial reporting. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | CulinaryPro Software Professional catering software for creating customized proposals, managing events, scheduling, and invoicing. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | SmartCaterer Cloud-based platform for catering operations including online menus, order management, and delivery tracking. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Eve Catering Full-featured catering software for booking, production planning, dispatch, and real-time event management. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Caterbook Catering CRM and booking software that handles inquiries, quotes, orders, and supplier coordination. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Total Party Planner Event and catering planning software with tools for guest lists, seating, menus, and vendor management. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
Comprehensive all-in-one catering management software for handling events, proposals, inventory, staff scheduling, and accounting.
All-in-one event management platform with robust catering tools for planning, booking, payments, and client communication.
Event sales and catering management software that streamlines proposals, contracts, invoicing, and guest management for caterers.
Cloud-based catering software focused on online ordering, quotes, customer portals, and operational workflows.
End-to-end cloud catering management system for events, menus, inventory tracking, and financial reporting.
Professional catering software for creating customized proposals, managing events, scheduling, and invoicing.
Cloud-based platform for catering operations including online menus, order management, and delivery tracking.
Full-featured catering software for booking, production planning, dispatch, and real-time event management.
Catering CRM and booking software that handles inquiries, quotes, orders, and supplier coordination.
Event and catering planning software with tools for guest lists, seating, menus, and vendor management.
Caterease
specializedComprehensive all-in-one catering management software for handling events, proposals, inventory, staff scheduling, and accounting.
Advanced recipe and menu management with automatic costing, yields, and infinite scalability for large events
Caterease is a veteran catering management software with over 30 years of refinement, offering end-to-end tools for event planning, proposal creation, inventory tracking, staff scheduling, and invoicing. It excels in handling complex operations like recipe costing, equipment management, and custom reporting for caterers. Available in both desktop and cloud versions, it integrates seamlessly with accounting software like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Comprehensive feature set covering proposals, events, inventory, and accounting
- Highly customizable templates and reporting for complex catering needs
- Reliable performance with strong data security and QuickBooks integration
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to depth of features
- Primarily desktop-focused with cloud version still maturing
- Higher upfront costs for full functionality
Best For
Established mid-to-large catering businesses needing robust, customizable operations management.
Pricing
Desktop perpetual license starts at $4,995 with $995 annual support; cloud subscriptions from $99/user/month.
Planning Pod
specializedAll-in-one event management platform with robust catering tools for planning, booking, payments, and client communication.
Integrated BEO builder that automates catering order fulfillment and syncs with inventory and staff schedules in real-time
Planning Pod is an all-in-one cloud-based event management platform that excels in catering software capabilities, offering tools for menu planning, Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), inventory management, staff scheduling, and vendor coordination. It streamlines the entire catering workflow from initial proposals and contracts to post-event reporting and invoicing. Ideal for caterers handling weddings, corporate events, and large gatherings, it integrates seamlessly with payment gateways and calendars for efficient operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one suite covering proposals, BEOs, inventory, and scheduling
- Customizable templates and real-time collaboration for teams
- Strong mobile app and integrations with QuickBooks, Stripe, and Google Calendar
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Pricing can be high for very small catering operations
- Limited advanced AI-driven forecasting compared to niche tools
Best For
Mid-sized catering businesses and event planners managing multiple venues and complex events who need an integrated platform.
Pricing
Starts at $59/user/month (billed annually) for Basic plan; Pro at $99/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Tripleseat
enterpriseEvent sales and catering management software that streamlines proposals, contracts, invoicing, and guest management for caterers.
Dynamic proposal builder with drag-and-drop menus, pricing packages, and built-in e-signatures for rapid client conversions
Tripleseat is a comprehensive catering and event management platform designed for hospitality businesses like restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. It streamlines the entire sales process from lead capture and proposal creation to booking, invoicing, and post-event reporting. With strong CRM capabilities and integrations with POS systems like Toast and accounting tools like QuickBooks, it helps teams manage high-volume events efficiently.
Pros
- Extensive event pipeline and CRM tools for lead-to-contract management
- Seamless integrations with POS, accounting, and menu providers
- Advanced reporting and analytics for revenue insights
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High cost with custom pricing that may not suit small operations
- Occasional reports of slow customer support response times
Best For
Mid-to-large catering businesses and venues handling multiple events weekly who need robust sales and operations automation.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $500/month for smaller teams, scaling up to $1,500+ for enterprises with add-ons.
CaterZen
specializedCloud-based catering software focused on online ordering, quotes, customer portals, and operational workflows.
Customizable client self-service portal for repeat orders and event inquiries
CaterZen is a cloud-based catering management software designed to streamline operations for catering businesses, including event scheduling, menu management, online ordering, and invoicing. It offers tools for staff scheduling, inventory tracking, and client communication through customizable portals. The platform emphasizes ease of use for small to medium-sized operations, helping caterers handle everything from inquiries to post-event follow-ups efficiently.
Pros
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface with minimal learning curve
- Robust online ordering and client portal for self-service bookings
- Strong customer support with responsive team and training resources
Cons
- Limited integrations with popular accounting or POS systems
- Reporting and analytics features lack depth for larger enterprises
- Pricing scales up quickly for high-volume users
Best For
Small to medium-sized catering businesses seeking an all-in-one platform to manage events and client interactions without complex setup.
Pricing
Starts at $129/month for Basic (up to 50 events), $199/month for Pro, and custom Enterprise pricing; annual discounts available.
CaterTrax
specializedEnd-to-end cloud catering management system for events, menus, inventory tracking, and financial reporting.
Advanced online ordering portal with customizable menus and real-time availability, enabling direct customer bookings without staff intervention
CaterTrax is a cloud-based catering management software tailored for caterers, off-premise kitchens, and event companies to streamline their entire workflow. It provides tools for online ordering, event planning, inventory tracking, invoicing, and detailed reporting, all accessible via web and mobile apps. The platform integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks to automate financial processes and supports multi-location management for scaling businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive event and inventory management tools
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for invoicing
- Robust reporting and analytics for business insights
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small operations
- Initial setup and training may take time
- Limited customization options for advanced users
Best For
Mid-sized catering businesses and off-premise kitchens needing an all-in-one platform for online orders and operations.
Pricing
Starts at approximately $149/month for basic plans, with custom enterprise pricing based on users, locations, and features; free demo available.
CulinaryPro Software
specializedProfessional catering software for creating customized proposals, managing events, scheduling, and invoicing.
Advanced recipe scaling and costing engine that automatically adjusts ingredients and prices for any event size
CulinaryPro Software is a cloud-based catering management platform tailored for professional caterers, offering tools for event planning, proposal generation, production scheduling, inventory management, and invoicing. It streamlines operations from initial client inquiries through post-event analysis, with features like recipe costing and staff scheduling to optimize profitability. The software supports both on-premise and off-premise catering businesses with real-time data access via web and mobile apps.
Pros
- Comprehensive event and production management tools
- Strong recipe costing and inventory tracking
- Mobile app for on-the-go access
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited integrations with external POS or accounting systems
- Customer support response times can be slow
Best For
Mid-sized catering companies needing detailed production planning and cost control without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $129/month for basic plan (1 user), scales to $299+/month for teams with advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.
SmartCaterer
specializedCloud-based platform for catering operations including online menus, order management, and delivery tracking.
Built-in B2B marketplace that connects caterers directly with corporate event planners for new business opportunities
SmartCaterer is a cloud-based catering management platform that helps businesses handle everything from menu design and online ordering to event scheduling and invoicing. It includes inventory tracking, staff management, and a built-in marketplace for attracting corporate clients. The software aims to streamline operations for caterers of all sizes while boosting online visibility and sales.
Pros
- Intuitive online ordering and marketplace for lead generation
- Comprehensive menu and inventory management tools
- Mobile app for on-the-go event management
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Steeper learning curve for advanced reporting features
- No free trial or plan, requiring upfront commitment
Best For
Small to medium-sized catering businesses seeking an all-in-one solution with client acquisition tools.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month (Starter), $99/month (Professional), custom Enterprise pricing; annual discounts available.
Eve Catering
specializedFull-featured catering software for booking, production planning, dispatch, and real-time event management.
Client-facing online ordering portal that syncs orders directly into operations without manual entry
Eve Catering is a cloud-based software platform tailored for catering businesses, offering tools to manage orders, events, staff scheduling, and inventory from a single dashboard. It features an intuitive online ordering portal for clients, automated invoicing, and real-time reporting to streamline operations. Ideal for caterers handling weddings, corporate events, and more, it supports scalability with mobile access for on-the-go management.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with mobile app for field staff
- Robust online client ordering portal
- Comprehensive reporting and inventory tracking
Cons
- Limited integrations with external POS systems
- Pricing can escalate for larger teams
- Advanced customization requires support assistance
Best For
Small to mid-sized catering operations seeking an all-in-one solution with strong client-facing online ordering.
Pricing
Starts at $129/month for basic plan (up to 5 users), scales to $299+/month for premium features and unlimited users; custom enterprise quotes available.
Caterbook
specializedCatering CRM and booking software that handles inquiries, quotes, orders, and supplier coordination.
Self-service online client booking portal with real-time availability and payment processing
Caterbook is a cloud-based catering management software tailored for catering businesses, enabling seamless handling of bookings, event planning, staff scheduling, and invoicing. It features an online client portal for self-service bookings and payments, inventory tracking, and customizable reporting tools. The platform also includes a mobile app for real-time updates, making it suitable for on-the-go operations in the catering industry.
Pros
- Strong online booking and client portal for direct reservations
- Comprehensive inventory and staff management tools
- Reliable mobile app for field operations
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations (e.g., few POS systems)
- Steeper learning curve for advanced reporting features
- Pricing can add up with add-ons for larger teams
Best For
Small to mid-sized catering companies needing an integrated booking and operations management system without extensive customization.
Pricing
Starts at £49/month for Starter plan (basic features), £99/month for Professional (advanced tools), and custom Enterprise pricing; annual discounts available.
Total Party Planner
specializedEvent and catering planning software with tools for guest lists, seating, menus, and vendor management.
Automatic recipe scaling and precise costing that adjusts ingredients, yields, and prices based on guest count
Total Party Planner is a desktop-based software tailored for caterers and event planners, enabling comprehensive management of events from initial proposals to final invoicing and reporting. It features automated recipe scaling, menu costing, inventory tracking, staff scheduling, and client management to streamline catering operations. Primarily designed for Windows users, it supports unlimited events and provides detailed financial tools without ongoing subscription fees.
Pros
- Robust recipe and menu management with automatic scaling and costing
- One-time purchase model offers excellent long-term value
- Comprehensive event tracking including proposals, invoices, and inventory
Cons
- Windows-only desktop app with no mobile or web access
- Dated user interface requires a learning curve
- Limited integrations with modern accounting or payment systems
Best For
Small to mid-sized catering businesses seeking affordable, feature-packed desktop software without recurring fees.
Pricing
One-time purchase: $495 for Standard edition, $795 for Pro, and $995 for Enterprise with advanced features like unlimited users.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top 10 catering software solutions reveals distinct strengths, with Caterease leading as the top choice, offering comprehensive all-in-one management for events, inventory, and accounting. Planning Pod and Tripleseat follow, with Planning Pod excelling in client communication and booking tools, and Tripleseat streamlining sales and contract workflows. Together, these three set the standard for efficient catering operations, each catering to unique needs while delivering exceptional value. Choose wisely, and take your business to new heights.
Don’t wait—experience Caterease, the top-ranked solution, and transform how you manage every aspect of your catering business today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison