PartyCalcs.uk
Canapé Calculator
Calculate canapé quantities by type for cocktail receptions based on guest count and event duration.
Allocate a portion as vegetarian (off = all meat/fish)
How We Calculate This
Quantity Formula
Pieces per guest = Pieces per hour × Duration × Event type multiplier
Total pieces = Pieces per guest × Guest count
Event type multipliers: pre-dinner reception (0.7×), drinks reception (1.0×), cocktail party (1.2×), wedding reception (0.9×), replacing a meal (1.5×). When canapés replace a meal the per-person count is capped at 14 pieces, matching UK caterer guidance for a multi-hour canapé-only reception rather than scaling indefinitely with duration.
Vegetarian allocation ensures at least 30% of the total are meat-free whenever vegetarian options are included, so non-vegetarian guests can graze them too. Turn the vegetarian toggle off to plan an all-meat/fish menu.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a standard 2-hour drinks reception, plan for 8-12 pieces per person. If canapés are replacing a full meal, plan for 12-14 pieces per person (a substantial canapé-only reception). For a short pre-dinner reception (30-60 minutes), 4-6 pieces is enough.
Offer a minimum of 4-6 varieties for a 2-hour event. Add 2-3 varieties per extra hour. Include at least 30% vegetarian options even if few guests are vegetarian. A good mix includes cold (smoked salmon blinis), warm (mini quiches) and sweet (petit fours) options.
Even if only 10-15% of guests are vegetarian, make at least 30% of your canapés vegetarian. Non-vegetarian guests also eat veggie options, so this calculator always allocates a minimum of 30% meat-free when vegetarian options are switched on. If your entered vegetarian percentage is higher than 30%, that figure is used instead. Always slightly over-cater on vegetarian options.
Related Calculators
Snack Bowl Calculator
Calculate how many bags of crisps, nuts, popcorn and other snacks to buy for party bowls based on your guest count. Free online calculator.
Dessert Calculator
Work out dessert portions and quantities for your party or event, covering cakes, tarts, fruit and sweet treats per guest. Free calculator.
Cake Size Calculator
Choose the right cake size and number of tiers for your celebration based on guest count and portion sizes. Free online party calculator.
Party Food Calculator
Calculate the right amount of food per guest for your party, covering mains, sides, salads and snacks. Plan catering with confidence. Free calculator.
Pizza Party Calculator
Work out how many pizzas to order for your party based on guest numbers, appetites and topping variety. Never over or under-order again. Free tool.
Was this calculator helpful?
Last updated: March 2026
All calculations are estimates. Adjust quantities based on your guests and event type.