GITNUXBEST LIST

Food Service Restaurants

Top 10 Best Event Catering Software of 2026

Compare top event catering software solutions. Find best fit for seamless planning. Get started today!

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
Learn more
For caterers and venues, efficient management of menus, inventory, scheduling, and client relationships is the backbone of delivering exceptional events and sustaining profitability. With a range of tools designed to streamline everything from order processing to financial tracking, choosing the right software is key to scaling operations and staying competitive. Below, we’ve identified the top 10 solutions that excel in functionality, user experience, and value, catering to diverse needs from small operations to large-scale venues.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: Caterease - Comprehensive end-to-end software for professional caterers managing events, menus, inventory, scheduling, and invoicing.
  2. 2#2: Tripleseat - Event sales and catering CRM platform that streamlines proposals, contracts, BEOs, and catering operations for venues and caterers.
  3. 3#3: Planning Pod - All-in-one event management software with powerful tools for catering orders, production schedules, and vendor coordination.
  4. 4#4: CaterTrax - Cloud-based catering management system handling orders, events, inventory, and financials for off-premise caterers.
  5. 5#5: FoodStorm - Online ordering and POS platform built for catering businesses to manage event orders, menus, and fulfillment.
  6. 6#6: CaterZen - Simple, affordable software for caterers to handle scheduling, invoicing, payments, and client communications for events.
  7. 7#7: PerfectVenue - Venue and catering management software with features for event bookings, menus, inventory, and sales reporting.
  8. 8#8: Total Party Planner - Catering and event planning software for managing client details, menus, recipes, inventory, and profitability.
  9. 9#9: Curate - Modern sales and CRM tool for caterers to create proposals, nurture leads, and close event catering deals.
  10. 10#10: MarketMan - Inventory and procurement management platform optimized for foodservice operations including event catering.

We ranked these tools by evaluating their feature set—including end-to-end capabilities, CRM functionality, and inventory management—along with usability, reliability, and value for money, ensuring they meet the dynamic demands of modern event catering.

Comparison Table

This comparison table examines leading event catering software tools, such as Caterease, Tripleseat, Planning Pod, CaterTrax, and FoodStorm, to guide users in selecting the right solution. Readers will gain insights into key features, usability, and functionality, helping them streamline event planning and coordination.

1Caterease logo9.6/10

Comprehensive end-to-end software for professional caterers managing events, menus, inventory, scheduling, and invoicing.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
8.4/10
Value
9.2/10
2Tripleseat logo9.2/10

Event sales and catering CRM platform that streamlines proposals, contracts, BEOs, and catering operations for venues and caterers.

Features
9.5/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
8.8/10

All-in-one event management software with powerful tools for catering orders, production schedules, and vendor coordination.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.4/10
4CaterTrax logo8.4/10

Cloud-based catering management system handling orders, events, inventory, and financials for off-premise caterers.

Features
8.8/10
Ease
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10
5FoodStorm logo8.4/10

Online ordering and POS platform built for catering businesses to manage event orders, menus, and fulfillment.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10
6CaterZen logo8.4/10

Simple, affordable software for caterers to handle scheduling, invoicing, payments, and client communications for events.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10

Venue and catering management software with features for event bookings, menus, inventory, and sales reporting.

Features
8.6/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
7.9/10

Catering and event planning software for managing client details, menus, recipes, inventory, and profitability.

Features
6.2/10
Ease
8.1/10
Value
8.5/10
9Curate logo8.1/10

Modern sales and CRM tool for caterers to create proposals, nurture leads, and close event catering deals.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
8.7/10
Value
7.6/10
10MarketMan logo7.2/10

Inventory and procurement management platform optimized for foodservice operations including event catering.

Features
7.5/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
7.0/10
1
Caterease logo

Caterease

specialized

Comprehensive end-to-end software for professional caterers managing events, menus, inventory, scheduling, and invoicing.

Overall Rating9.6/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
8.4/10
Value
9.2/10
Standout Feature

Advanced recipe costing and yield management with real-time inventory adjustments across multiple locations

Caterease is a comprehensive event catering software that manages the full lifecycle of catering operations, from initial proposals and bookings to inventory tracking, staff scheduling, and invoicing. It provides tools for menu planning, rental management, and detailed reporting, helping caterers optimize costs and streamline workflows. Available in both desktop and cloud versions, it supports scalability for businesses handling high-volume events.

Pros

  • All-in-one solution covering proposals, events, inventory, and accounting
  • Highly customizable templates and reporting for complex catering needs
  • Strong customer support with dedicated training resources

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
  • Higher pricing may deter small operations
  • Desktop version requires Windows, limiting cross-platform access

Best For

Mid-to-large catering companies managing high-volume, multi-faceted events that require robust inventory and financial tracking.

Pricing

Cloud plans start at $295/month (billed annually) for base features, with add-ons for additional users, modules, and on-premise options via custom quotes.

Visit Catereasecaterease.com
2
Tripleseat logo

Tripleseat

enterprise

Event sales and catering CRM platform that streamlines proposals, contracts, BEOs, and catering operations for venues and caterers.

Overall Rating9.2/10
Features
9.5/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Automated proposal-to-contract workflow with built-in e-signatures and menu configurators

Tripleseat is a comprehensive event management and catering software tailored for hospitality venues like hotels, restaurants, and country clubs. It streamlines the full event lifecycle, from lead generation and customized proposals to contract signing, BEO creation, invoicing, and post-event reporting. With extensive integrations to POS systems, CRMs, and accounting tools, it enables efficient management of high-volume catering operations.

Pros

  • Robust event pipeline from inquiry to invoicing
  • Seamless integrations with 100+ tools like QuickBooks and Toast
  • Powerful reporting and analytics for revenue optimization

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Pricing can be high for small operations
  • Customization requires support team involvement

Best For

Mid-to-large hospitality venues managing frequent catering events and banquets.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing; typically $125-$300 per user/month depending on venue size and modules.

Visit Tripleseattripleseat.com
3
Planning Pod logo

Planning Pod

enterprise

All-in-one event management software with powerful tools for catering orders, production schedules, and vendor coordination.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.4/10
Standout Feature

Integrated Pods system for real-time team collaboration on events, menus, and tasks

Planning Pod is a comprehensive all-in-one event management platform designed for event planners, venues, and caterers, offering tools to streamline the entire event lifecycle from lead capture to post-event analysis. For event catering, it provides specialized features like menu management, banquet event orders (BEOs), inventory tracking, staff scheduling, and cost calculations. It integrates CRM, task management, and client portals to centralize operations and enhance collaboration.

Pros

  • Robust catering-specific tools including BEOs, menu builders, and inventory management
  • All-in-one platform reduces need for multiple tools
  • Strong customization and reporting for detailed event tracking

Cons

  • Steep learning curve due to extensive features
  • Pricing can be high for small catering operations
  • Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality

Best For

Mid-sized catering companies and event management teams needing an integrated platform for complex events.

Pricing

Starts at $59/user/month for Starter plan; Pro at $99/user/month; custom Enterprise pricing available.

Visit Planning Podplanningpod.com
4
CaterTrax logo

CaterTrax

specialized

Cloud-based catering management system handling orders, events, inventory, and financials for off-premise caterers.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.8/10
Ease of Use
7.6/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Advanced delivery route optimization with GPS tracking for efficient multi-stop logistics

CaterTrax is a cloud-based catering management software tailored for event caterers, offering end-to-end tools for quoting, booking, inventory tracking, staff scheduling, and invoicing. It streamlines operations with features like online client ordering portals, recipe costing, and production planning to handle complex events efficiently. The platform provides real-time reporting and mobile apps for on-the-go staff management, making it suitable for mid-sized catering businesses.

Pros

  • Comprehensive event lifecycle management from proposal to payment
  • Robust inventory and recipe costing tools
  • Mobile apps for staff and drivers with real-time updates

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Interface feels dated in some areas
  • Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors

Best For

Mid-sized catering companies managing multiple events weekly that require detailed inventory control and production planning.

Pricing

Starts at $149/month for basic plans (up to 50 events/year), scaling to $499+/month for unlimited events and advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.

Visit CaterTraxcatertrax.com
5
FoodStorm logo

FoodStorm

specialized

Online ordering and POS platform built for catering businesses to manage event orders, menus, and fulfillment.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic package builder that supports nested options, modifiers, and upsells tailored for catering events

FoodStorm is a specialized online ordering and management platform designed for catering businesses, enabling the creation of dynamic menus, event scheduling, and order fulfillment. It provides a branded website for customers to place catering orders, select packages, and specify delivery details, while backend tools handle inventory, dispatching, and invoicing. The software integrates with payment processors and accounting systems to streamline operations for event caterers.

Pros

  • Highly customizable menu builder for complex catering packages and events
  • Integrated scheduling, delivery routing, and real-time order tracking
  • White-label ordering site that enhances professional branding

Cons

  • Pricing can escalate quickly with order volume and add-ons
  • Initial setup requires time to configure menus and integrations
  • Reporting and analytics are functional but not as advanced as top competitors

Best For

Mid-sized catering companies handling frequent events that need a robust, customer-facing online ordering system.

Pricing

Starts at $135/month for basic plans, with custom enterprise pricing based on order volume and features.

Visit FoodStormfoodstorm.com
6
CaterZen logo

CaterZen

specialized

Simple, affordable software for caterers to handle scheduling, invoicing, payments, and client communications for events.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Integrated website builder with a fully customizable online ordering storefront

CaterZen is a cloud-based catering management software designed specifically for event caterers, offering tools for menu creation, online ordering, event scheduling, and client management. It streamlines operations with features like automated invoicing, staff scheduling, inventory tracking, and integrations with QuickBooks and payment gateways. The platform helps caterers build professional websites with built-in ordering storefronts, reducing dependency on external booking sites and enhancing direct client engagement.

Pros

  • Robust online ordering and customizable storefront for direct bookings
  • Strong integrations with QuickBooks and payment processors
  • Comprehensive event and inventory management tools

Cons

  • Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small operations
  • Limited advanced reporting customization
  • Mobile app functionality lags behind desktop version

Best For

Medium-sized catering businesses seeking an all-in-one platform for online orders, event management, and CRM without needing custom development.

Pricing

Starts at $129/month (Starter plan, billed annually) up to $349/month (Enterprise), with a free trial available.

Visit CaterZencaterzen.com
7
PerfectVenue logo

PerfectVenue

enterprise

Venue and catering management software with features for event bookings, menus, inventory, and sales reporting.

Overall Rating8.3/10
Features
8.6/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
7.9/10
Standout Feature

Integrated client portal for self-service booking, proposals, and payments, reducing manual follow-ups

PerfectVenue is a comprehensive venue and event management platform designed to streamline operations for event spaces, including those offering catering services. It provides tools for online booking, proposal creation, contract management, invoicing, and payment processing, all integrated into a single dashboard. The software excels in client relationship management (CRM) and helps venues handle catering menus, event calendars, and post-event reporting efficiently.

Pros

  • Seamless integration of bookings, payments, and CRM for efficient event and catering management
  • User-friendly interface with mobile access and customizable workflows
  • Robust reporting and analytics to track catering revenue and performance

Cons

  • Pricing can be high for smaller catering operations or single venues
  • Limited third-party integrations compared to larger enterprise solutions
  • Advanced customization requires setup time and support

Best For

Mid-sized event venues and catering providers that need an all-in-one platform for managing bookings, client interactions, and payments.

Pricing

Starts at $149/month for basic plans, with custom pricing for enterprise features (billed annually).

Visit PerfectVenueperfectvenue.com
8
Total Party Planner logo

Total Party Planner

specialized

Catering and event planning software for managing client details, menus, recipes, inventory, and profitability.

Overall Rating6.8/10
Features
6.2/10
Ease of Use
8.1/10
Value
8.5/10
Standout Feature

Automated shopping list generation that scales recipes based on guest count and dietary preferences

Total Party Planner is a Windows desktop application designed for organizing parties and events, with tools for managing guest lists, menus, recipes, shopping lists, seating charts, and timelines. It excels in scaling recipes for guest counts and generating automated shopping lists, making it handy for personal or small-scale catering logistics. However, it lacks cloud access, mobile support, and professional features like invoicing or staff scheduling found in enterprise event catering software.

Pros

  • Affordable one-time purchase with no subscriptions
  • Intuitive interface for quick event setup and recipe scaling
  • Comprehensive tools for menus, shopping lists, and seating

Cons

  • Windows-only desktop app with no mobile or cloud access
  • Missing professional catering features like CRM, invoicing, and inventory tracking
  • Limited scalability for large events or teams

Best For

Home users or small-scale party hosts planning casual events without needing advanced business tools.

Pricing

One-time fee of $49.95 for lifetime access.

Visit Total Party Plannertotalpartyplanner.com
9
Curate logo

Curate

specialized

Modern sales and CRM tool for caterers to create proposals, nurture leads, and close event catering deals.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
8.7/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Visual curation studio for creating interactive, shoppable event proposals with real-time client customization

Curate (hellocurate.com) is a vendor-focused platform tailored for event professionals, including caterers, enabling them to create stunning digital portfolios, showcase menus, and manage client inquiries seamlessly. It excels in lead generation and proposal customization, connecting caterers with couples and event planners through a marketplace-style interface. While strong in marketing and client-facing tools, it provides lighter operational features for day-to-day catering management like inventory or staff scheduling.

Pros

  • Intuitive drag-and-drop proposal and menu builder for visually appealing client presentations
  • Built-in lead generation marketplace connecting caterers to high-intent event clients
  • Streamlined inquiry management and CRM tools to nurture leads efficiently

Cons

  • Lacks robust backend operations like inventory tracking or staff scheduling
  • Primarily geared toward weddings and social events, less ideal for corporate catering
  • Subscription costs can add up for small caterers with low lead volume

Best For

Wedding and private event caterers seeking to boost visibility, generate leads, and deliver polished digital proposals without heavy operational software needs.

Pricing

Tiered subscriptions starting at $99/month for basic access, up to $299/month for premium features including unlimited proposals and advanced analytics.

Visit Curatehellocurate.com
10
MarketMan logo

MarketMan

enterprise

Inventory and procurement management platform optimized for foodservice operations including event catering.

Overall Rating7.2/10
Features
7.5/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
7.0/10
Standout Feature

Integrated vendor marketplace for one-click purchasing and invoice automation

MarketMan is an inventory management and procurement platform tailored for restaurants, bars, and caterers, offering real-time stock tracking, automated vendor ordering, and recipe costing tools. It helps event caterers control food costs, minimize waste, and streamline purchasing for large-scale events. While strong in backend operations, it lacks comprehensive event planning features like scheduling or guest management.

Pros

  • Real-time inventory tracking and forecasting reduces waste for event prep
  • Automated purchase orders from 300+ vendors simplify sourcing
  • Recipe costing and analytics provide precise menu pricing for events

Cons

  • No native event scheduling, RSVPs, or on-site management tools
  • Limited integrations with full event catering platforms
  • Advanced reporting requires some setup and training

Best For

Event caterers prioritizing inventory control and cost management over complete event workflow automation.

Pricing

Starts at $149 per location/month (Essentials plan), up to $299+ for Pro/Enterprise with custom quotes.

Visit MarketManmarketman.com

Conclusion

Evaluating the top 10 event catering tools reveals Caterease as the definitive leader, offering comprehensive end-to-end management of menus, inventory, and operations. While Tripleseat excels in sales and CRM streamlining, and Planning Pod impresses with all-in-one coordination, Caterease remains the top choice for a well-rounded, all-encompassing solution that caters to diverse needs.

Caterease logo
Our Top Pick
Caterease

Caterers aiming to simplify workflows and boost efficiency should start with Caterease—its powerful tools make it the strongest pick to elevate event management.