The Complete Guide to Vegan Wedding Catering
Whether you and your partner are fully vegan or just want plant-forward options for your guests, vegan wedding catering has come a long way. Here's your complete guide.
Is Vegan Catering More Expensive?
Short answer: not necessarily. Plant-based proteins (tofu, tempeh, legumes) cost less than meat, which can offset the premium some caterers charge for specialty vegan dishes. On average:
- Fully vegan menu: $50–$130 per plate
- Vegan options within a traditional menu: No extra charge at most caterers
- Custom vegan tasting menus: $85–$180 per plate
The key is finding a caterer who cooks vegan food because they love it, not one who treats it as an afterthought.
What to Look For in a Vegan Caterer
1. Experience, not just willingness
Any caterer can "make something vegan." You want one who has done vegan weddings before and can show you photos and testimonials. Ask to see their vegan menu options specifically.
2. Creative, not restrictive
A great vegan caterer doesn't just remove the meat — they build exciting dishes around plants. Look for menus that feature roasted cauliflower steaks, jackfruit sliders, cashew cream pastas, and seasonal vegetable showcases.
3. Cross-contamination awareness
If your vegan menu is driven by ethics or allergies, make sure the caterer understands cross-contamination protocols. Ask about shared fryers, shared prep surfaces, and how they handle allergens.
Menu Ideas by Course
Appetizers
- Wild mushroom bruschetta on sourdough
- Coconut shrimp (hearts of palm)
- Avocado tartare with crispy wontons
- Stuffed figs with cashew cream and balsamic
Mains
- Roasted cauliflower steak with chimichurri
- Truffle risotto with seasonal vegetables
- Thai coconut curry with tofu and jasmine rice
- Jackfruit "pulled pork" sliders with slaw
- Stuffed portobello with quinoa and herbs
Desserts
- Coconut milk panna cotta
- Dark chocolate avocado mousse
- Vegan carrot cake with cashew frosting
- Seasonal fruit galette with oat crumble
How to Handle Non-Vegan Guests
Let's be real — Grandma might not be thrilled about an all-vegan menu. Here are some strategies:
- Don't announce it's vegan — Let the food speak for itself. Many guests won't even notice
- Offer familiar comfort foods — Mac and cheese (cashew-based), shepherd's pie, pasta — veganized versions of foods people love
- Add a protein station — Some couples add a single meat station alongside an otherwise vegan menu as a compromise
- Put it on the invitation — "Join us for a plant-based celebration dinner" sets expectations early
Finding Vegan-Friendly Caterers
On WeddingBite, filter caterers by "Vegan Options" to find caterers who specialize in plant-based menus. Every listing shows whether vegan options are available and what those menu items look like, so you can compare before requesting quotes.