How Much Does BBQ Catering Cost in Toronto for Corporate & Family Events (2025 Guide)

When planning a BBQ event in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) — whether it’s a corporate gathering in Toronto, a family celebration in Mississauga, or a community festival in Brampton — one of the first questions that comes up is: How much does BBQ catering cost in Toronto?

The answer depends on several factors: menu selection, number of guests, type of service, and add-ons like rentals or staffing. At Big Flames BBQ, we’ve catered events across Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Scarborough, and Etobicoke, and we know how important transparent pricing is for planning.

This guide will break down BBQ catering costs in Toronto for 2025, giving you a clear idea of what to budget for your next event.

Average BBQ Catering Costs in Toronto (2025)

On average, BBQ catering in the GTA ranges between $17 and $60 per person, depending on the menu and level of service.

• Family events (birthdays, reunions, anniversaries): typically $17–$50 per guest.

• Corporate events (team lunches, staff appreciation days, client events): usually $17–$60 per guest, with more premium menus and service.

For larger gatherings (100+ guests), volume discounts may apply, while small, intimate events often have higher per-person costs due to staffing minimums.

Factors That Affect BBQ Catering Cost

Several key factors influence the final price of your BBQ event:

1. Menu Selection

A simple menu with burgers, hot dogs, and salads will cost less than one featuring ribs, brisket, and smoked salmon. For example:

• Basic BBQ Menu: $15–$20 per guest

• Mid-Range Menu (pulled pork, chicken, sides): $20–$45 per guest

• Premium Menu (brisket, ribs, gourmet sides, desserts): $45–$60 per guest

Explore Big Flames’ full menu options to see what fits your budget.

2. Guest Count

The number of attendees directly impacts cost. More guests usually lower per-person pricing due to economies of scale, while smaller groups may face minimum order requirements.

3. Type of Event

Corporate events often include higher service expectations (servers, chefs on-site, plated options), while family gatherings may stick with buffet-style service.

4. Service Style

• Buffet/self-serve: the most affordable option.

• Food truck service: trendy but may add $500–$1,500 for setup.

• Full-service catering: includes staff, setup, and cleanup, adding 10–30% to costs.

  
  

5. Rentals & Equipment

Need tents, tables, or chairs? Rentals in Toronto can add $500–$2,000 depending on guest count, and trusted providers like The Main Event Services offer full event rental services.”

6. Staffing

Servers, bartenders, or grill masters can add $25–$40 per hour, per staff member.

7. Extras & Add-Ons

• Dessert stations or ice cream trucks, including local favorites like Alb Softy Inc., are a hit at both corporate and family BBQ events.

• Live entertainment (local Toronto DJs or performers).

• Décor packages or themed setups via event planners such as Fab Fête Event Planning Boutique can elevate the look of your BBQ.

Corporate BBQ Catering Costs

Corporate BBQs in Toronto are popular for team-building, client appreciation, and staff events. Costs typically include:

• Mid-range menus: $35–$50 per person.

• Premium menus with multiple courses: $50–$60 per person.

• Add-ons: branded décor, upgraded rentals, and bar services.

Big Flames BBQ works with businesses across Toronto, Vaughan, Markham, and Mississauga, tailoring corporate BBQ packages to fit budgets and branding goals. Learn more about our services.

Family BBQ Catering Costs

For birthdays, anniversaries, or reunions, families in the GTA often choose more casual packages:

• Affordable packages: $25–$35 per person.

• Upgraded packages with ribs or brisket: $35–$45 per person.

• Special celebrations: $45+ with dessert tables and drink stations.

Family BBQs benefit from stress-free catering since hosts can focus on enjoying the day instead of managing the grill.

Cost Comparison: Catering vs DIY

You might wonder whether it’s cheaper to do it yourself. While DIY seems cost-effective, consider the hidden costs:

• Purchasing meats, sides, and condiments

• Equipment (chafing dishes, serving platters, disposable ware)

• Rentals (tables, chairs, tents)

• Labor — your time spent shopping, prepping, cooking, and cleaning

DIY for 50 guests can easily run $1,200–$1,500, not including your time. Professional catering, at $15–$40 per guest, may cost about the same — but saves hours of stress.

Pro Tips for Saving on BBQ Catering Costs

1. Book early: Many Toronto caterers offer early-bird discounts.

2. Choose buffet style: More affordable than plated service.

3. Keep the menu focused: Fewer dishes mean lower costs.

4. Go seasonal: Summer packages are often more cost-effective.

5. Bundle services: Work with one vendor for catering and rentals.

FAQ: BBQ Catering Cost Toronto

How much does BBQ catering cost per person in Toronto?Expect $25–$60 per guest, depending on menu and service style.

Is corporate BBQ catering more expensive than family BBQ catering?Yes. Corporate events often require premium menus, rentals, and additional staffing.

What’s the cheapest way to cater a BBQ in Toronto?Choose a simple buffet menu and limit extras. Prices start around $25 per person.

Do caterers in the GTA offer BBQ packages with rentals?Yes. Companies like Big Flames BBQ partner with rental providers for full-service solutions.

Can I hire a BBQ food truck for my event?Yes. Food truck catering is trendy but usually adds $500–$1,500 to the total.

Ready to Budget Your BBQ Event?

Understanding BBQ catering costs is the first step in planning a successful event. Whether it’s a corporate BBQ in Toronto or a family celebration in Vaughan, Big Flames BBQ provides transparent pricing and customizable packages.

👉 Request a Quote today to get started on your stress-free BBQ event planning.