Restaurant, catering and canteen services

Restaurant, catering and canteen services

Restaurant and catering services

In general, restaurant and catering services are liable to Value-Added Tax (VAT) at the reduced rate.

The supply of takeaway food is considered a supply of goods rather than the provision of restaurant services. Different rates apply depending on the goods supplied.

Further guidance contains more detailed information on

  • the VAT treatment of restaurant and catering services
  • and
  • the VAT treatment of food and drink.

Canteen services

There are many different arrangements in place in relation to staff canteens. Canteens may be

  • operated on a profit-making basis
  • outsourced
  • or
  • operated without any charge to staff.

Further guidance contains more detailed information on the VAT treatment of canteen services.