If you’ve ever had to feed a large group—be it for a graduation party, a holiday get-together, or just a summer night when no one wants to cook—you know how fast things can add up. In my day job, one of the things we do often is provide dinner for big groups of families, so over time, we’ve gotten pretty good at finding affordable catering options that don’t sacrifice flavor (or portion size).
With Memorial Day weekend, grad parties, and Father’s Day all on the horizon—not to mention the Fresno heat making the idea of turning on your oven pretty unbearable—I thought I’d share my personal top 5 crowd-pleasing, budget-friendly picks for feeding a bunch of hungry folks well.
1. CDT Cocina (Tower District)
This woman-owned local spot on Olive is a gem. Their massive tamales, tacos, and fully loaded fries are always a hit, and their family meal packs come with rice, beans, and generous portions that satisfy even the hungriest groups. They also offer fresh chips, guacamole, and a standout salad with an apple chipotle vinaigrette that people always ask about. Bonus: Everything is gluten-free, and they offer vegetarian and vegan options too. Online ordering is a breeze, and they’ll even deliver large local orders.
2. DiCicco’s Italian (Clinton & 99 Location)
If your crowd loves Italian, this is a go-to. The folks at this location are warm, reliable, and consistently have catering orders ready on time. Their penne marinara, chicken fettuccine Alfredo, and fan-favorite scarface chicken all come in large trays, and every order includes their iconic pillowy thick-sliced French bread with butter. Trust me—no one leaves hungry.
3. Bowlzeye (Clovis)
Asian fusion done right. Bowlzeye is known for being an actual hidden gem/hole-in-the-wall spot with a cult following. Their teriyaki chicken and spicy garlic chicken, both served over a mountain of rice, plus their addictive loaded “nameless potatoes.” Families we serve can’t get enough. Not only is the food incredibly tasty, but the prices are extremely reasonable for the amount of food you get. Seconds are practically a guarantee.
4. El Pollo Loco (Multiple Locations)
Don’t sleep on this one! El Pollo Loco may be a fast-food chain, but their catering game is strong. Their citrus-marinated grilled chicken is always juicy, and their catering packages come with warm tortillas, mashed potatoes and gravy, beans, and fresh salsa. Orders can be placed easily online and are always ready on time. Great quality, great price, great for feeding a big crew.
5. Panda Express (Multiple Locations)
Another chain, yes—but Panda Express has surprisingly solid catering that’s been consistently good (and reasonably priced!) for years. Their packages include everything: plates, utensils, sauces—you name it. Orange Chicken disappears first, but the Broccoli Beef, and Sweet Fire Chicken are also solid picks for even picky crowds. We usually add cream cheese wontons or veggie egg rolls to make sure there’s something for everyone including vegetarians.
Price Breakdown
Most of these options can comfortably feed 25 to 50 people, depending on your group’s appetite and mix of kids vs. adults, for around $175–$225 total. That’s less than $5–$9 per person, which is a win in my book—especially when you’re feeding folks something they’ll actually enjoy.
So whether you’re celebrating something big or just don’t feel like cooking, keep this list handy. Feeding a crowd doesn’t have to be stressful—or expensive—when you know where to go.
- Fresno Datebook: Local Ideas for Fun Nights Out - June 13, 2025
- Where to Swim & Splash in Fresno, 2025 Edition - June 5, 2025
- Need a Teacher Gift? Here Are Thoughtful, Specific Picks That Won’t Go to Waste - May 29, 2025
Leave a Reply