Publix Platters Guide: Menu, Prices & How to Order
When you are hosting a gathering, game day party, or office lunch, providing good food without spending hours in the kitchen is a massive relief. One of the most popular grocery store catering options in the American Southeast is ordering platters at Publix. Known for high-quality deli items, fresh produce, and reliable customer service, Publix makes entertaining remarkably easy.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Publix catering menu, popular tray options, estimated pricing, and how to place your order smoothly.
Popular Types of Platters at Publix
Publix offers a diverse selection of party trays designed to suit any time of day or dietary preference. Whether you need a light breakfast, a hearty lunch, or an evening snack spread, their deli and bakery departments have you covered.
Meat and Cheese Trays
The classic deli meat and cheese platter is a staple for sandwich-heavy gatherings. Publix arranges sliced meats—such as roasted turkey, roast beef, and tavern ham—alongside cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and colby jack. They typically come with a garnish of green olives, black olives, and pickles.
- Small: Serves 8–12
- Medium: Serves 16–20
- Large: Serves 28–35
Finger Sandwich and Wrap Platters
If you prefer grab-and-go options that require zero assembly from your guests, sandwich trays are ideal. You can choose from classic sub sandwiches cut into bite-sized portions, traditional pinwheel wraps, or assorted finger sandwiches on bakery-fresh bread.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Platters
Balance out the heavy proteins and carbs with crisp, refreshing produce. The produce department prepares fresh fruit trays featuring seasonal items like strawberries, grapes, pineapples, and cantaloupe, often served with a sweet fruit dip. Vegetable trays feature crisp carrots, celery, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes paired with ranch or dill dip.
Video: Enjoying Publix food platters
Publix Deli Favorites
Beyond standard sandwich fare, Publix is famous for a few signature items:
- Chicken Tender Platter: Featuring their legendary hand-breaded chicken tenders, served with your choice of dipping sauces (honey mustard and barbecue are crowd favorites).
- Publix Sub Service Platters: Customizable multi-foot subs or pre-cut party subs that can feed a crowd efficiently.
- Wing Platters: Traditional or boneless wings tossed in mild, hot, or BBQ sauces.
Pricing Overview
While prices can vary slightly depending on your location and current market rates, Publix platters offer competitive value for the quality provided. Generally speaking:
- Small trays usually range from $25 to $40.
- Medium trays generally cost between $40 and $65.
- Large trays typically range from $60 to $95+.
Specialty items like chicken tender platters or premium meat selections will fall on the higher end of the pricing spectrum due to ingredient costs.
How to Order Publix Party Platters
Ordering from the Publix deli is a straightforward process, but a little planning goes a long way to ensure your event goes off without a hitch.
- Review the Menu: You can browse the complete catering menu online through the Publix website or pick up a physical catering booklet at your local store's deli counter.
- Plan Ahead: Publix requests that you place your platter orders at least 24 hours in advance. For larger events, holiday weekends, or multiple trays, giving them 48 hours or more is strongly recommended.
- Place Your Order: You have two main ways to order. You can use the online ordering system on the Publix website or app, or you can speak directly with an associate at the deli counter in person or over the phone.
- Pick Up and Pay: On the day of your event, head to the deli counter to pick up your chilled platters. Payment is typically handled at checkout, though online orders may be pre-paid.
Tips for a Successful Pickup
To keep your food fresh and safe, make sure your refrigerator has enough clearance to store the platters flat before the event. Deli trays are designed to be kept cold until roughly 30 minutes before serving, allowing cheeses and meats to reach optimal flavor temperature. Finally, always double-check your order items against your receipt before leaving the store to ensure no dipping sauces or utensils were accidentally left behind.
