Food Cost Percentage Calculator

Food cost percentage is one of the most important metrics in restaurant management, showing what portion of a menu item's sale price goes toward ingredients. Enter your plate cost and menu price below to see your food cost percentage and gross profit per item.

Food Cost Percentage
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Plate Cost—
Menu Price—
Gross Profit Per Item—
Food Cost %—

About this calculator

Calculate your restaurant's food cost percentage from menu item cost and sale price to price dishes profitably.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good food cost percentage?

Most restaurants target a food cost percentage between 28% and 35%, though this varies by cuisine type and business model.

How is food cost percentage calculated?

Divide the cost of ingredients used to make a dish by the menu price you charge for it, then multiply by 100.

How can I lower my food cost percentage?

Reduce waste, negotiate supplier pricing, adjust portion sizes, or increase menu prices to improve your ratio.