RESTAURANT / FREE OPERATOR TOOLS
Average Check Calculator
Measure spend and gross profit per guest, rather than per table.
Default numbers are an example, not industry data.
Formula
Average check = sales ÷ covers. Gross profit per cover = (sales − COGS) ÷ covers.
How it works
Average check here means sales per cover, or guest served, rather than per bill or party. Count covers consistently and enter total net sales excluding VAT or sales tax for exactly the same service or reporting period.
Enter COGS matching those sales to estimate gross profit per cover. This does not subtract labor or overhead. Compare like services and inspect menu mix, discounts and guest counts when the average changes; a higher check does not automatically mean higher operating profit.
Worked example
5,000 sales ÷ 200 covers = 25.00 average check. After 1,500 COGS, gross profit per cover is 17.50.
Frequently asked questions
Is a cover the same as a bill?
No. A cover is one guest; one bill may cover several guests. This calculator measures sales per guest.
Should tips be included in sales?
Exclude voluntary tips collected for staff. Use a consistent net sales definition and handle service charges according to your accounting treatment.
Is gross profit per cover net profit?
No. It subtracts COGS only. Labor, occupancy costs and other expenses still need to be covered.
Are my inputs saved or uploaded?
Calculations run in your browser. Inputs are not uploaded by the calculator. Sharing puts the inputs in a readable URL; anyone with that link can see them.