Comparing Publix catering menu prices across different platter options ensures you get the best value for your event. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, office lunch, or holiday party, knowing what each tray costs helps you stay within budget. Publix offers a wide range of catering choices, from subs and salads to hot entrees and desserts. This guide breaks down the costs, portions, and what you can expect for your money.
Publix is known for its fresh ingredients and reliable service. Their catering menu is designed to feed groups of various sizes. You can order online or visit the deli counter. Prices vary by location, so always check with your local store. But this article gives you a solid baseline for planning.
Publix Catering Menu Prices Overview
Publix catering is split into several categories. Each category has its own pricing structure. The most popular options include sub sandwiches, chicken tender platters, and vegetable trays. You’ll also find fruit platters, cheese trays, and hot meals like fried chicken or meatballs.
Prices typically range from $15 for a small veggie tray to over $100 for a large hot entree platter. The exact cost depends on the size and ingredients. For example, a standard sub tray feeds about 10 people and costs around $35 to $50. A chicken tender platter for 12 people runs about $45 to $60.
Sub Sandwich Trays
Sub trays are a crowd favorite. They come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. The small tray serves 6 to 8 people. Medium serves 10 to 12. Large serves 16 to 20. Prices start at about $30 for a small and go up to $65 for a large. You can choose from classic subs like Italian, turkey, or ham and cheese. Add-ons like extra meat or cheese increase the cost by a few dollars.
Chicken Tender Platters
Chicken tender platters are perfect for casual events. A small platter with 20 tenders costs around $35. A medium with 40 tenders is about $55. A large with 60 tenders runs about $75. These platters come with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue. You can also order them as part of a combo meal with fries or coleslaw.
Vegetable And Fruit Trays
Vegetable trays are affordable and healthy. A small tray with assorted veggies costs about $20. A medium tray is $30, and a large tray is $45. Fruit trays are slightly more expensive due to fresh fruit. A small fruit tray is $25, medium is $38, and large is $55. Both options include dip or dressing.
Hot Entree Platters
Hot entrees include fried chicken, meatballs, and pasta. A fried chicken platter with 8 pieces costs about $25. A meatball platter with 20 meatballs is $30. Larger sizes double or triple the price. These platters are ideal for dinner events or buffets. They often come with sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.
Publix Catering Menu Prices By Category
To make it easier, here’s a breakdown of Publix catering menu prices by category. This table shows typical costs for small, medium, and large sizes. Remember, prices can vary by region.
- Sub Sandwich Trays: Small $30, Medium $45, Large $65
- Chicken Tender Platters: Small $35, Medium $55, Large $75
- Vegetable Trays: Small $20, Medium $30, Large $45
- Fruit Trays: Small $25, Medium $38, Large $55
- Cheese And Cracker Trays: Small $22, Medium $35, Large $50
- Fried Chicken Platters: Small $25, Medium $40, Large $60
- Meatball Platters: Small $30, Medium $45, Large $65
- Dessert Trays: Small $18, Medium $28, Large $40
Cheese And Cracker Trays
Cheese trays are great for appetizers. A small tray includes three cheese varieties and crackers. It costs about $22. Medium trays have five cheeses and cost $35. Large trays with seven cheeses run $50. You can add olives or nuts for an extra charge.
Dessert Trays
Dessert trays feature cookies, brownies, and pastries. A small tray with 12 pieces costs $18. Medium with 24 pieces is $28. Large with 36 pieces is $40. These are popular for birthday parties or office celebrations. Publix also offers custom cakes, but those are priced separately.
Party Platters Combos
Publix offers combo platters that mix items. For example, a sub and salad combo costs around $50 for a medium size. A chicken tender and fruit tray combo is about $60. These combos save you money compared to ordering separately. Check the weekly ad for special deals.
How To Order Publix Catering
Ordering is simple. You can do it online through the Publix website or app. Or visit the deli counter in person. For large orders, call ahead at least 24 hours. Same-day orders are possible but may have limited options.
- Go to the Publix catering page on their website.
- Select your category: subs, platters, or hot meals.
- Choose your size and add-ons.
- Pick a pickup time and location.
- Pay online or at the store.
You can also customize orders. For example, request no onions on the sub tray or extra dip for veggies. Publix staff are usually happy to accomodate special requests. Just ask at the counter.
Tips For Saving Money
To get the best value, order larger platters. They often cost less per person. Also, look for weekly specials. Publix sometimes discounts catering items on certain days. Avoid peak holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, when prices may be higher due to demand.
- Order medium or large trays for better per-person cost.
- Check the Publix weekly ad for catering deals.
- Combine items into a combo platter for savings.
- Pick up your order yourself to avoid delivery fees.
Publix Catering Menu Prices For Events
Different events have different needs. Here’s how Publix catering menu prices work for common occasions.
Office Lunches
For office lunches, sub trays are the most cost-effective. A medium sub tray feeds 10 to 12 people for about $45. Add a small veggie tray for $20. Total cost is around $65 for 12 people. That’s about $5.40 per person. Very reasonable for a work meeting.
Family Gatherings
Family events often need more variety. A large chicken tender platter ($75) plus a large fruit tray ($55) feeds 15 to 20 people. Total is $130. Add a dessert tray for $40. That’s $170 for a full meal. Per person, it’s about $8.50 to $11.
Birthday Parties
Birthday parties can mix hot and cold items. A large sub tray ($65) and a large meatball platter ($65) feed 20 people. Add a dessert tray ($40). Total is $170. Per person is about $8.50. You can also order a custom cake separately.
Holiday Events
Holiday catering is popular. Fried chicken platters are common. A large fried chicken platter ($60) plus sides like mashed potatoes ($25) feeds 12 people. Total is $85. Per person is about $7. Add a fruit tray for dessert. Holiday prices may be slightly higher, so order early.
Publix Catering Menu Prices Vs Competitors
Compared to other grocery stores, Publix is mid-range. Walmart catering is cheaper but has less variety. Costco offers bulk platters at lower per-person costs. But Publix has better quality and more customization. For example, a sub tray at Publix costs about $4.50 per person. At Walmart, it’s $3.50. At Costco, it’s $3.00. But Publix uses fresher bread and meats.
For hot meals, Publix is competative. A fried chicken platter at Publix costs about $5 per person. At KFC catering, it’s $6. At Boston Market, it’s $7. So Publix is a good balance of price and quality.
Delivery And Setup Fees
Publix offers delivery for large orders. Delivery fees vary by location. Some stores charge a flat $10 fee. Others charge based on distance. Setup is usually free if you order over $100. Always ask about fees when ordering. They can add to the total cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest item on the Publix catering menu?
The cheapest item is usually a small vegetable tray at around $20. Small dessert trays are also affordable at $18.
Can I get a discount for large orders?
Publix does not officaly offer bulk discounts. But ordering larger platters reduces the per-person cost. Combo platters also save money.
How far in advance should I order?
For best results, order 24 to 48 hours ahead. Same-day orders are possible but may have limited availability. Holiday orders should be placed a week in advance.
Are Publix catering menu prices the same at all locations?
No, prices vary by region. Stores in urban areas may charge more. Always check with your local store for exact pricing.
Can I customize a platter?
Yes, you can customize most platters. For subs, you can choose bread type and toppings. For veggie trays, you can request specific vegetables. Just ask at the deli.
Final Thoughts On Publix Catering Menu Prices
Publix catering offers good value for the quality. Prices are reasonable for most events. Sub trays and chicken tender platters are the most popular. Veggie and fruit trays are great for healthier options. Hot entrees work well for dinner parties. Always compare sizes to get the best per-person cost.
Remember to order ahead, especially for holidays. Check the weekly ad for deals. And don’t forget to ask about delivery fees. With a little planning, Publix catering can make your event easy and affordable.
One thing to note: Publix catering menu prices can change without notice. So always confirm with your store before placing a large order. But overall, Publix is a reliable choice for group meals. Their food is fresh, and their service is friendly. You can’t go wrong with a sub tray for a casual gathering.
If you’re on a tight budget, stick with smaller platters. Or mix a sub tray with a veggie tray. That combo feeds 10 people for under $50. For larger events, the large platters are the way to go. They offer the best value per person. And don’t forget dessert. A small cookie tray is a cheap way to end the meal.
In conclusion, Publix catering menu prices are competitive. They offer a wide range of options for any event. With this guide, you can plan your order and stay within budget. Happy planning!