Transparent estimate
Build the whole outing budget.
Food is only one part of the plan. Add drinks, transport and a safety buffer before the group chooses a venue.
Method and assumptions
The tool multiplies food and drinks by the number of people, adds the transport total, then applies the chosen buffer. It does not assume a service charge, free delivery or a promotion. Put those expected costs into the relevant field or increase the buffer.
What to do with the number
Divide the final estimate by the group size and compare that per-person ceiling with broad listing price signals. Then call the shortlisted venue for a current quote. If one person is paying for transport or cake, agree on that before collecting contributions.