Feeding a large group of guests well is one of those quiet stress tests of party planning — too little food and people remember; too much and the budget blows. After 18 years of catering for families, sports clubs, schools and corporate teams across Richmond, we've boiled it down to a few practical rules.
How Much Indian Food Per Person?
For a relaxed evening meal, we plan around 1 starter, 1 main, 1 rice/bread and 1 side per guest. For buffet-style service add roughly 20% extra to allow for repeat visits and guest preference. For a true feast (weddings, Eid, milestone birthdays) plan for 2 starters and 2 mains per person — see our catering packages which are sized this way by default.
Dine-In vs Catering: Which One Fits?
For up to 20-24 guests, our private dining space at Richmond TW10 7NF is the easiest route — guests arrive, we serve, you leave. For 25+ guests or off-site celebrations (homes, halls, offices, marquees) catering is almost always cheaper per head and gives you control over timing. See dine-in details or request a catering quote.
Building a Crowd-Pleasing Menu
A balanced group menu always has: one mild creamy curry (Korma or Tikka Masala), one mid-spiced classic (Rogan Josh or Madras), one tandoori platter, one vegetarian hero (Paneer Tikka Masala or Channa Masala), basmati rice, garlic naan, and a fresh salad. This covers spice tolerance, dietary needs, and dining preference without overloading the table.
Dietary Requirements Made Simple
Because our kitchen is trusted halal suppliers and nut-free, mixed groups (kids, elderly relatives, allergy-sensitive guests, observant Muslim guests) are catered for as standard. We clearly label vegan and gluten-free options. Always send us a guest count breakdown 48 hours ahead so we can prep accordingly — see our dietary information.
Lead Times and Booking
Group dining (9-24 guests): minimum 7 days notice. Off-site catering: 2-3 weeks ideal, 1 week minimum. Match-day Saturdays at Twickenham and December weekends book out earliest — see our Twickenham match-day guide.
Why Groups Choose Jaflong
- halal-sourced kitchen — no separate sourcing questions
- Nut-free environment — far fewer allergen complications
- BYOB with no corkage and no service charge
- 15-minute remake/refund freshness guarantee
- 18-year track record across Richmond, Ham, Kew, Twickenham, Teddington and Kingston
Planning a group meal?
Call us on 020 8332 1339 for groups of 9+ or request a catering quote online — we'll help you size the menu, schedule arrivals, and confirm dietary needs.
Request a catering quote →