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Food Cost Calculation: From Cost of Goods to Menu Price
What is the purchase cost per portion, and what percentage of the price should the cost of goods represent? The calculator determines the selling price, or shows how much your current price actually yields.
Selling Price (Gross)
12.25 €
- Selling Price (Net)
- 11.67 €
- On the Menu (Rounded)
- 12.90 €
- Calculation Factor (Net)
- 3.33
- Gross Profit per Portion (Net)
- 8.17 €
Calculates in your browser. No input is saved or transmitted. All information provided without guarantee. For binding advice, please consult your tax advisor.
How it Works
- 1
Choose whether you want to calculate a new price or check an existing price.
- 2
Enter the cost of goods per portion, i.e., the ingredients at purchase price excluding tax.
- 3
Enter your target percentage or current menu price and check the tax rate for food in your country.
- 4
The calculator shows the price, calculation factor, and gross profit per portion.
How it's Calculated
Net Selling Price = Cost of Goods ÷ Target Percentage. With €3.50 cost of goods and a 30% target, this results in €11.67 net.
The calculation factor is 1 ÷ target percentage; at 30%, this is 3.33. VAT on food is added for the gross price; in Austria 10%, in Germany 7% for food in restaurants.
What is a Good Percentage?
The percentage alone tells little. A steak with a 38% percentage can yield more Euros per plate than a soup at 20%. Therefore, also pay attention to the gross profit per portion, i.e., net price minus cost of goods. This is what you use to pay for staff, rent, and energy.
Determining Cost of Goods Correctly
An underestimated cost of goods is the most common reason for prices being too tight:
- Calculate using gross weight, not the weight on the plate. Trimming and cooking losses are included.
- Side dishes, sauces, oil, and garnishes count.
- Check purchase prices at least every quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Good Cost of Goods Percentage in Restaurants?
In the kitchen, many establishments are between 25% and 35%; for beverages, it's 18% to 25%. The key is that personnel and fixed costs can be covered by the gross profit.
What is the Calculation Factor?
The number you multiply the cost of goods by to get the net price. At a 30% target percentage, it's 3.33.
Which Tax Rate Applies to Food?
In Austria 10% for food, in Germany permanently 7% for food in restaurants since 2026. Beverages often have a different rate. Enter the rate for your country.
Will my entries be saved?
No. The calculator runs entirely in your browser.
POS and Cost of Goods in One System
The DivineMind POS system operates according to RKSV with signed receipts, table layout, cashier PIN, and automatic daily closing. Items, prices, and inventory are in the same system as your accounting.
View POS SystemLink to this Calculator
You are welcome to recommend the calculator on your website, blog, or forum. Please copy this link:
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