Panera Party Trays & Platters: Prices, Serving Sizes & the Tray-vs-Boxed Decision (2026)

Typically, a Cold Assorted Sandwiches tray runs about $66.89 to $67.99 and a Hot Assorted tray about $65.69 to $68.99. The Deluxe Assortment, which adds salad, chips, pickles, baguette and cookies to 10 half sandwiches, is reported between $69.99 and $100.39 depending on cafe and date. Tray prices are not in our checked menu numbers, so every tray figure here is labeled typical and your cafe may differ. The lineup breaks each tray down per person.

Typically, most Panera platters serve 8 to 10 people. The Deluxe Assortment is built around 10 half sandwiches, which is 5 whole sandwiches cut in half: halves are how one tray gives 10 guests a real choice. Count roughly one half per guest when other trays are on the table, and two halves for hungry groups. The decision module shows what that costs per person.

Yes, by a wide margin. A Deluxe Assortment works out to about $7 to $10 per person typically, while individual boxed lunches run $12.89 to $16.29 per person typical. For 10 people that is roughly $70 to $103 in trays versus $129 to $163 in boxes, a saving of about 40 to 50 percent per person. Boxes still win when guests need labeled, individual meals; the boxed lunches page covers that format.

Typically, order at least 24 hours ahead for small groups of 6 to 8 people, and 48 hours ahead for groups of 15 to 20. Lead times are set by each cafe, so confirm the cutoff when you order, and order earlier than the minimum for holidays and game days when cafes fill their prep schedule. The fine print collects the minimums that go with these lead times.

Typically, cafes commonly set a $50 minimum with 24 hours notice for 6 to 8 people, and a $150 minimum with 48 hours notice for 15 to 20 people. Delivery is reported around a $15 fee with roughly a $75 minimum, and both vary by cafe. Pickup avoids the delivery fee entirely. Confirm the exact minimums and fees with your cafe before you count on them.

Typically, Panera salad trays serve about 10, with dressings packaged separately and toppings kept separate so the greens stay crisp. Utensils come on request, and bread is an add-on rather than a given. Salad tray prices are reported from $39.99 to $86.29 depending on cafe and source, so confirm the tray contents and price with your cafe. The salads guide covers the individual versions.