Home › Free tools › Menu Price Calculator

Menu price calculator (target food cost)

Enter a plate cost and the food cost percentage you want. Get the menu price you need, plus a rounded menu-friendly price. Free, no signup, runs in your browser.

How to price a menu item from food cost

The formula is menu price = plate cost ÷ target food cost %. A $4.10 plate at a 30% target needs a $13.67 price, which rounds to $13.99. This calculator gives you a starting point. Then check it against what nearby restaurants charge, how popular the item is, and how much prep labor it takes.

Not every item has to hit the same target. Popular, low-cost items can carry a lower food cost %. A signature plate that brings people in can run a little higher if it sells drinks and sides.

Tips

FREE GUIDE

Get the free Starter 5 guide

5 copy-paste AI bots for reviews, ordering, Monday numbers, social posts, and catering quotes.

Get the Starter 5 →

Get the free Starter 5 guide + one new playbook every week

FAQ

How do I price a restaurant menu item?

Divide plate cost by your target food cost percentage. Then adjust for local competitor prices, perceived value, and labor.

What food cost percentage should I use for pricing?

Many restaurants start around 28–33% for food and lower for drinks. Use the target that keeps your overall food cost and prime cost where you need them.

Can AI help with menu pricing?

Yes. AI can cost recipes, suggest prices at your target, and compare public competitor menu prices. You approve every price change.

Related playbooks

More free tools