Ordering pizza for a group is simple arithmetic plus a little knowledge of your crowd. Here are the rules of thumb pizzerias use, a size chart, and a ready-made table for common party sizes.
The rule of thumb
Pizza size chart
| Size | Typical slices | Area (sq in) | Feeds (adults) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small 10″ | 6 | 79 | 1–2 |
| Medium 12″ | 8 | 113 | 2–3 |
| Large 14″ | 8–10 | 154 | 3 |
| Extra-large 16″ | 10–12 | 201 | 4 |
Value tip: a 16-inch pizza has almost 80% more area than a 12-inch, so larger sizes are usually a better price per square inch.
Quick party table (large 14″ pizzas)
| Guests | Mostly adults | Mostly kids |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 4 | 3 |
| 15 | 6 | 4 |
| 20 | 8 | 5 |
| 30 | 11–12 | 8 |
| 50 | 19–20 | 13 |
Adjust for your crowd
- Add 10–20% for teenagers, sports teams or events with no other food.
- Subtract 20–30% if you are serving salads, wings, sandwiches or a big dessert.
- Lunch usually runs lighter than dinner: 2 slices per adult.
- Tavern-style squares stretch further because people take small pieces; see our party-cut guide.
Choosing the mix
For a group of about 20, a reliable split is: 40% pepperoni or cheese, 30% a meat combo, 20% vegetarian, and 10% a specialty or vegan pie. Ideas are in our topping combinations guide.
Planning a bigger event?
For offices, school events and parties, see the pizza catering guide for timing, add-ons and ordering tips.
Frequently asked questions
How many pizzas for 10 adults?
About 4 large pizzas, based on 3 slices per adult and 8 slices per large.
How many slices are in a large pizza?
Usually 8. Some pizzerias cut 10, and tavern-style squares produce many more, smaller pieces.
Is one large pizza better value than two mediums?
Often yes. A 14-inch large has about 154 sq in, compared with 226 sq in for two 12-inch mediums, so compare prices per square inch.
This guide is published by the team preserving the Umbria Gourmet Pizzeria website. Umbria Gourmet Pizzeria at 521 W 98th St, Bloomington, MN has permanently closed; this page offers general food information and is not an offer to order.
