I frankly think you're dreaming if you think you can get by with $2 per person for a lunch unless you just go to the grocery store and bring bread, bologna, mustard & mayo! And doubling the amount will probably add chips and a drink to that.

Determine a reasonable dollar amount per person (probably between $8 & $12 per person) and then call a few restaurants and ask what you can get for that amount. Just about any restaurant will cater their menu. Once you get past sandwiches keep in mind the caterer has to charge for disposable tableware, flatware and linens.

a big pan of pasta, either hot like mostaccioli in sauce or pasta salad. and a salad bar / veggie plates / fruit plates. cheese and crackers or a sweets selection if you can fit it into the budget. keep the drinks to coffee, tea and water. if you are willing to do the prep work you can keep the price down. dollar stores are good for disposables (plates napkins, etc.) and decor.

I prefer for the catering not to be pizza.

Expected group between 50-100 people.

Price needs to be less than $200, if possible.

Catering only planned for lunch.

Any other tips or comments would be helpful, thanks!