If you're looking for a flexible and centrally located venue in Downtown Los Angeles to host a corporate event, birthday celebration, or college mixer, Bonaventure Brewing Co. offers the ideal mix of atmosphere and convenience. Our private event spaces include both indoor and outdoor options, and we regularly host events that run into the evening.
One important thing to know when planning your timeline is our 10 PM amplified sound policy. Here's how it works, what it means for your event, and how we help you plan around it.

If you're planning an indoor event in Downtown Los Angeles, Bonaventure Brewing Co. offers a versatile, inviting space right inside the Westin Bonaventure Hotel. With 5,000 square feet of indoor event space split between a main dining room and cozy bar area, we host everything from corporate mixers and university banquets to late-night birthday parties and holiday dinners.
Here’s how our indoor layout works and why it’s one of the most flexible options in DTLA.

Looking for a relaxed, semi-private space for your next event? The patio breezeway at Bonaventure Brewing Co. offers a flexible, cost-friendly solution for everything from small happy hours to large event extensions.
Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, the breezeway is a unique space that connects directly to both our indoor bar and private garden patio. Whether you're hosting a casual mixer, expanding your garden event, or looking for a more open layout for a full buyout, the breezeway is a versatile option that can be customized to fit your needs.

Not every event comes with a big budget, and that’s okay. Whether you’re planning a happy hour, a company mixer, a team celebration, or something more casual, we’re here to help you create an experience that feels meaningful and well-executed, even with limited funds.
At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we’ve worked with all kinds of groups: nonprofits, student organizations, small businesses, startups, and department teams. If you’re worried your budget isn’t enough, don’t stress. There’s usually a way to make it work. Here's how we approach it.

Looking to host a holiday party in Downtown LA that feels festive, effortless, and fun? Whether you’re planning an end-of-year celebration, a client appreciation mixer, or a team gathering, Bonaventure Brewing Co. offers one of the most unique indoor-outdoor event spaces in Los Angeles.
Located inside the iconic Westin Bonaventure Hotel, our venue combines craft beer, skyline views, holiday-ready décor, and in-house coordination to help you throw a celebration your guests will actually enjoy.
Here’s how we make your holiday event stand out.

If you're planning a private event in Downtown Los Angeles, you’ve probably seen the usual hotel ballrooms, crowded rooftops, and overpriced lounges. Bonaventure Brewing Co. offers something better: a fully private garden patio, house-brewed craft beer, and a team that makes your event feel effortless.
Whether you’re planning a company party, wedding welcome event, or birthday celebration, here’s why we stand out as one of LA’s best-kept event venue secrets:

​If you’ve been searching for a private event venue in Downtown Los Angeles that makes planning easy, you’re in the right place. At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we guide you through every step of your event planning process to make sure the experience is simple, professional, and stress-free.

Private Daytime Events at Bonaventure Brewing Co.
Planning a daytime gathering in Los Angeles? Whether you’re hosting a client appreciation brunch, a birthday celebration, a baby shower, or a casual company luncheon, Bonaventure Brewing Co. offers everything you need all in one place.
Located inside the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in the heart of DTLA, our venue provides a relaxed garden patio and breezy indoor space, ideal for daytime events up to 200 guests. We specialize in making brunches and luncheons simple, stylish, and stress-free.

When you're planning a private event in Downtown Los Angeles, one of the most common questions is what kind of bar setup to offer your guests. If you're working with a budget or want to keep things simple, you might be wondering: should we do a cash bar?
At Bonaventure Brewing Co., located inside the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in the heart of DTLA, we offer several bar service options for private parties, happy hours, corporate events, and wedding welcome dinners. This includes open bar packages, drink tickets, hosted tabs, and cash bars.
Here’s everything you need to know about how a cash bar works, along with the pros and cons, so you can decide what’s right for your group.

​​If you're planning a private event, you've probably seen the term food and beverage minimum come up. It might sound a little confusing at first, but it's actually simple once you understand how it works. At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we like to keep things straightforward and transparent, so here’s what you need to know.

Planning an event at Bonaventure Brewing Co. and working with your own DJ, photo booth, florist, or rental company? We’re happy to work with outside vendors and want everyone to have a smooth, easy experience.
Here’s a quick guide to help you and your vendors know what to expect on event day.

If you're planning a holiday party, company happy hour, or special celebration, we want to make things as simple as possible from the start.
To help streamline the process, we've created a quick Event Inquiry Form where you can share your event details with us in just a few minutes.

Buffet or Plated? Let’s Find What Fits Your Vision
If you're planning a dinner event in Downtown LA, one of the first decisions you'll make is what kind of dining experience you want to offer your guests. At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we make that process easy by offering two main formats for dinner: buffet-style service and plated dinner service. Both are fully catered, thoughtfully prepared in-house, and designed to suit a wide range of events. The best choice depends on your guest count, event goals, and how much structure you want built into the evening.
Let’s take a closer look at both.

Buffet Dinner Service
Flexible, approachable, and still polished
Our buffet setup is self-service but still elegant. It includes full staffing to manage the setup, maintain the food stations, and make sure everything stays clean and replenished. Guests help themselves at their own pace, which keeps the energy of the event relaxed and social.
This style is ideal for receptions, networking dinners, celebrations, and casual corporate events. It allows for more movement and interaction among guests and doesn't require a detailed floor plan or seating chart. We provide chafing dishes, service equipment, and all the necessary presentation pieces to keep things looking elevated.

With the buffet, you can build your menu from scratch or choose from one of our composed dinner packages, which are popular for groups that want a themed or pre-set experience without having to make individual selections.

Composed Dinner Buffet Options
Streamlined menus designed for simplicity and style
Composed buffet packages are complete menus designed to offer a well-balanced meal without requiring detailed customization. They’re especially great if you're hosting a larger group or if you want a cohesive menu that flows together.
​
Here are a few of the most popular options:
Italian Pasta Dinner
This package features multiple pasta dishes like chicken alfredo, vegetarian rigatoni, and spaghetti bolognese, plus salad and fresh rolls. It’s perfect for family-style vibes or casual company dinners.
Comfort Classic
A playful take on nostalgic favorites, this option includes sliders, flatbreads, mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and desserts like brownies and cookies. It's a great fit for younger crowds or relaxed events.
Taco Bar or Poke Bar
These build-your-own stations are fun and interactive. They work especially well for social events, mixers, and casual dinners where guests appreciate something fresh and flavorful.
Surf and Turf
Our elevated composed package includes chimichurri steak, blackened shrimp, salmon, and upscale sides like Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes. It’s a great option when you want something special without going full plated.

Plated Dinner Service
Formal, elegant, and more structured
Plated dinner service is our most elevated option and is best suited for more formal dinners, rehearsal dinners, company award banquets, or any event that includes speeches or presentations. Each guest is served a pre-selected meal at their assigned seat by our professional service team.
Because plated service requires more coordination, there is a bit more planning involved. We ask for a finalized floor plan, guest count, and menu selections no later than seven days before the event. Plated dinners are limited to 100 guests to ensure smooth service and proper timing from our kitchen.

While plated dinners take more work upfront, they offer a refined guest experience and a structured flow that many clients love, especially when there’s a program or presentation built into the evening.

Still Deciding? Here’s Our Advice
If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere with flexibility in flow and timeline, buffet-style service is likely your best bet. It gives your guests more control and creates a casual, social environment. Plus, it still feels elevated thanks to our service staff and presentation.

If your event includes a formal program, assigned seating, or you simply want the experience of a full-service dinner, then plated service is worth the extra coordination. It creates a memorable dining experience that feels polished from start to finish.

No matter which format you choose, we’re here to help make the process simple. From menus and rentals to timelines and dessert stations, we take care of everything so you can enjoy your event.

Ready to Start Planning?

We’d love to help you choose the right setup for your group. Email us at [email protected] or call 714-402-3316 and we’ll walk you through the options, send over sample menus, and build a custom proposal that fits your vision and guest count.

1. Drink Ticket Bar
How it works:
You pre-purchase a set number of drink tickets, usually 1 to 3 per guest. Guests use their tickets at the bar and can purchase more on their own if desired.
Best for:

• Corporate mixers and casual receptions
• Events with shorter timeframes (1 to 2 hours)
• Groups with mixed drinking habits

Pros:

• Budget-friendly and easy to manage
• Still offers a hosted feel
• Limits overconsumption
• No pressure on non-drinkers

Considerations:

• Guests may run out of tickets quickly
• Can feel less inclusive if not clearly explained
• Bar lines may move slower as tickets are exchanged

Pro tip:
Pair with light appetizers or host NA beverages so everyone feels included, even if they’re not using tickets.

2. Hosted Open Bar
How it works:
You fully host the bar for a set period of time. Guests can order beer, wine, or spirits freely during the hosted timeframe.
Best for:

• Weddings and formal celebrations
• Company appreciation events
• Receptions where you want a seamless guest experience

Pros:

• Easiest and most inclusive option
• Great for high-end or milestone events
• Keeps the line moving quickly
• No guest confusion about what’s covered

Considerations:

• Can be higher in cost depending on guest drinking habits
• Less control over exact spend unless you cap it by time or type
• Some planners opt to host only beer and wine to keep it streamlined

Pro tip:
We can help you estimate average consumption so you aren’t overcommitting. Hosting beer and wine only is a good middle-ground if you're concerned about costs.

3. On-Consumption Bar
How it works:
You only pay for what is actually ordered during the event. We keep a running tab and you can set a total cap or a time limit.
Best for:

• Smaller groups or shorter events
• Planners who want flexibility
• Clients with last-minute or evolving headcounts

Pros:

• You don’t overpay for unused packages
• Gives flexibility to scale based on guest behavior
• No upfront ticket distribution required

Considerations:

• Harder to predict exact cost in advance
• Requires someone to monitor or set clear limits with the venue
• Risk of going over if not capped or watched closely

Pro tip:
Use this option with a defined time limit or soft cap. We’ll notify you if your tab is getting close to a pre-set amount.

4. Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Options
​How it works:
We offer a variety of non-alcoholic drinks including soda, lemonade, sparkling water, and signature mocktails. These can be hosted on their own, served on consumption, or added to your main bar plan.
Best for:

• Family gatherings or under-21 events
• Company functions with wellness initiatives
• Any group that wants an inclusive experience

Pros:

• Guests who don’t drink still feel included
• Helps balance the bar
• Lower cost per guest than alcohol packages

Considerations:

• If you’re only hosting mocktails or NA drinks, be sure to communicate that clearly on your invitation or signage
• NA drinks can still run up the tab if guests order frequently, so clarify service style

Pro tip:
Pair mocktails with a branded name or printed menu to make them feel special, not like an afterthought.

5. Hybrid Options
Many clients choose a blend of the above for flexibility and flow. Here are a few examples:

• Two drink tickets per guest, followed by a cash bar
• Hosted beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks, with cocktails available for purchase
• Full open bar for the first hour, then switch to drink tickets or on-consumption

Why it works:
This gives structure to your event while keeping costs predictable and offering guests options.

How to Decide What’s Right for You
Ask yourself these questions:

• How long is your event?
• What is your target spend per guest?
• Will most guests be drinking, or do you expect a mix?
• Is this a formal or casual event?
• Do you want a fully hosted experience or a partially structured one?

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to walk you through real examples from past events to help you decide.

Let’s Build the Right Bar for Your Event
From casual mixers to large receptions, we’ll help you customize your bar service to match your vision, timeline, and budget. Just let us know your guest count and goals, and we’ll take care of the details.

Appetizers are the heartbeat of any good event. They keep guests engaged, offer variety, and help balance the drinks. Whether you’re planning a corporate happy hour, a welcome mixer, or a birthday celebration, the right mix of bites can set the tone and make your gathering memorable.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular appetizer options we serve at Bonaventure Brewing Co., along with tips to build the perfect spread for your group.

Guest Favorites That Always Go Fast
These appetizers are consistent crowd-pleasers that work well for almost any event.
Mini Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Warm, cheesy, and flavorful. This comfort food favorite always disappears quickly.
Coconut Crunchy Shrimp Crispy shrimp served with molasses cider dipping sauce. A top choice for seafood lovers.
Chicken Pot Stickers Savory and easy to eat. These are perfect for cocktail-style events or happy hours.
Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions Hearty and satisfying. A great option if you’re skipping a full meal.
Bruschetta with Tomato, Basil, and Balsamic Fresh and bright. This vegetarian bite adds color and balance to any menu.

Flavor-Packed Options to Mix Things Up
If you’re looking to go beyond the classics, try adding one or two of these:

• Tex Mex Chicken Rolls with corn, black beans, and avocado cream
• Blackened Shrimp with tropical salsa
• Pulled Pork Sliders with jalapeño jack cheese
• Spanakopita phyllo triangles
• Chicken Yakitori Skewers with sesame glaze

These items are a great way to add a mix of textures and bold flavors.

Vegetarian and Lighter Favorites
These options are flavorful, filling, and perfect for groups with a variety of dietary needs.

• Caprese Skewers with mozzarella, basil, and tomato
• Deep Fried Ravioli with house marinara
• Vegetarian Egg Rolls with sweet chili sauce
• Brussels Sprouts with balsamic reduction and shaved parmesan
• Mini Cheese Quesadillas
• Cucumber Boats with sundried tomato cream
• Warm Artichoke Spinach Dip with house chips
• Chips with Salsa or Guacamole

They work especially well for daytime events or garden-style receptions.

Looking for More Variety?
You can also add a grazing station with fresh fruit, meats, cheeses, crackers, veggies, and hummus. It’s a great way to create a fuller display that’s easy for guests to enjoy throughout the event.
If you'd like to offer something sweet at the end, we also have mini dessert assortments and fresh fruit skewers available.

How Many Appetizers Should You Order?
The number of selections depends on your guest count, event type, and whether you're serving a full meal.
​If you’re hosting a two-hour cocktail reception, a mix of five to six appetizers usually works well. For lighter events, three to four options may be enough.
We’re happy to recommend a combination that works best for your layout, timing, and bar package.

Let Us Help Build the Perfect Menu
​Tell us a little about your event, and we’ll help create a custom lineup that fits your group and keeps guests happy from the first bite to the last.

Want to explore all our small bites and tray-passed favorites? Check out our full appetizer menu here

Planning an event in Downtown LA?
We’d love to help. Reach out to our events team at [email protected] or 714-402-3316.

If you’ve ever tried booking a venue last minute, you know how quickly popular dates disappear — especially in a city like Los Angeles. At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we host hundreds of corporate events each year, and we’ve seen consistent trends in which dates fill up fastest.
Whether you’re planning a company happy hour, holiday celebration, or a networking mixer during a conference, here’s what you need to know to get ahead of the game.

1. Thursdays Are the Most In-Demand Weekday
If you're planning a corporate mixer, client appreciation event, or internal team celebration, Thursday is king. It’s far enough into the week to feel like a break, but doesn’t interfere with weekend plans.

Quick tip:
If your preferred Thursday is booked, Tuesday and Wednesday are strong alternatives that are usually more available and often more budget-friendly.

2. Q4 = Peak Season for Corporate Events
October through mid-December is by far the busiest time of year for corporate gatherings. From holiday parties to end-of-year appreciation events, venues across LA (including ours) book out quickly during this time.
Dates that fill up first: Thursdays and Fridays in November, Any mid-December weekday, The week after Thanksgiving
Plan ahead:
If you’re eyeing a holiday event, try to reach out by late August or early September for the best date selection.

3. Convention Weeks in Downtown LA Book Fast
If your event overlaps with a large expo or conference, expect a spike in demand, especially for early evening happy hours near the Convention Center.
Some of the busiest convention periods include:
February to March (tech and education conferences)
June to August (summer trade shows and association meetings)
Late September and October (fall conference season)
Even if your group is small, it’s smart to lock in a space once your conference schedule is confirmed.

4. Spring and Summer Bring Receptions and Team Celebrations
From May through August, we host a ton of team offsites, school celebrations, and networking events. Warm weather makes our outdoor garden especially popular, and larger groups tend to book further out.
If you're planning something outdoors:
Reach out at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance 

5. Fridays Book More Slowly... but Not Always
Fridays are hit or miss depending on the type of event. Happy hours may taper off slightly, but Friday night welcome receptions, alumni events, and industry mixers are still popular, especially for groups staying at the Westin Bonaventure.

When Should You Book?
Here’s a quick guideline based on your event type:
Event Type: Ideal Booking Lead Time: Corporate 
Happy Hour (20–50 guests)       3–5 weeks out
Client Reception (50–100 guests)       5–8 weeks out
Holiday Party (any size).              2–4 months out
Convention Week Mixer.            As soon as dates are confirmed

Need Help Choosing a Date?
If you’re flexible or trying to stay within a budget, we can help recommend dates that offer the best availability and rates. Just let us know your guest count and goals, and we’ll find the right fit.

Let’s Get It on the Calendar
Whether you’re planning for holiday season or just want to secure a date before things fill up, reach out anytime. We’re happy to put together a quick proposal or hold a date while you finalize details.

When you’re planning an event, it helps to know exactly what’s included, especially if you're comparing venues. At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we keep things simple by offering in-house services, fully furnished spaces, and a professional event team to help bring it all together.
​
Here’s a detailed look at what’s included when you book with us:

1. Furniture, Lighting, and Setup 
No need to rent tables, chairs, or string lights,  we’ve got it all here.
Depending on the space you choose, we provide:

• Lounge furniture (sofas, cushioned benches, cocktail tables)
• High-top and dining tables with seating
• Bistro string lights for ambiance, heat lamps, fire pits
• Standard setup and cleanup by our team
• Service staff to manage the flow of your event

For larger events, we’ll help with layout planning and day-of flow to make sure everything runs smoothly. We are also about to coordinate outside vendors such as DJ's, photo booths and more! 

2. In-House Catering and Bar Service Forget juggling outside vendors;  our in-house kitchen and bar staff have you covered.
We offer:

• Appetizer platters, buffet stations, and full meals
• House-made beers, wine, and cocktails
• Drink tickets, hosted bar, or open bar packages
• Water station included with all bookings

You can select your bar and food options based on your group size and preferences, and we’ll guide you through what fits best within your budget.

3. Optional Enhancements: Want to take your event to the next level? We offer a few upgrades that add a polished touch:

• Champagne welcome table
• Mic and speaker setup  for announcements or speeches
• Directional signage if guests are arriving through the hotel
• Decor-friendly spaces if you’d like to bring in your own florals or branding

We’ll work with you to customize your event based on what matters most.

4. A Dedicated Event Team You’re not on your own once you sign the contract. From the initial inquiry to the final toast, our team is here to help with:

• Layout suggestions
• Timeline planning
• Vendor coordination
• Day-of troubleshooting
• Final headcount and payment tracking

We’ve hosted hundreds of events and know how to make things seamless, even if you’re planning from out of town.

5. A Central Location Inside the Westin Bonaventure Hotel
 We’re located inside the Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, just a few blocks from the LA Convention Center.
Why that matters:

• Easy access for guests staying at the hotel
• No need to Uber across the city
• Perfect for conferences, retreats, or client events where location is key

Need a Proposal or Tour? We’re happy to send over a proposal or schedule a time for you to tour the space. Just let us know what kind of event you're planning, and we’ll walk you through your options.

Planning a corporate happy hour can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At Bonaventure Brewing Co., we host dozens of happy hours every year for teams, clients, and conference groups. Here’s a full guide to help you plan a successful, stress-free gathering.
 
1. Choose the Right Space
Outdoor Garden: Ideal for larger groups of 40+. Includes lounge furniture, cocktail tables, private bar, bistro lighting, and skyline views.
 Breezeway Patio: Best for smaller gatherings. Semi-private with table seating and lots of light!
Inside Bar Area: Perfect for groups of 20 to 40 who want easy bar access and a more budget-friendly option. You’ll be right in the heart of the brewery with high-top seating and a relaxed, communal feel.
 
2. Decide on Your Bar Format
You’ve got a few solid options:
• Open Bar (Beer & Wine or Full): You cover all drinks for a set time.
• Drink Tickets: Offer 1 to 2 tickets per person, then guests pay after.
• Hosted Tab: You cover drinks up to a certain amount or time limit.
Tip: If you’re unsure of your group’s drinking habits, drink tickets are a great way to stay in budget without limiting hospitality.
 
3. Don’t Skip the Snacks
Appetizers are key. They help keep the vibe social and make sure guests aren’t drinking on an empty stomach.
Popular picks include:
Chicken sliders, Mini grilled cheeses, French fries, Quesadillas, Bruschetta, Fried ravioli
Tip: Plan for 3-5 options.. Going too light on food often leads to guests leaving early (or getting hangry).
 
4. Timing is Everything
Most groups choose a 4:30pm to 6:30pm window. It's after work but before dinner and lets people stay flexible with their evening plans.
Tip: If you're hosting post-conference, consider starting a little earlier, especially if guests have evening dinners or travel.
 
5. Add Some Light Structure (Optional but Effective)
Not every happy hour needs an agenda, but a little structure goes a long way:
Welcome Toast: Kick things off with a short thank-you or introduction.
Drink Raffle or Trivia: Encourage mingling and energy without being overbearing.

Company-branded cocktail napkins or signage: Easy branding moment.
Games: consider adding jumbo games… all available through us! 
 
6. Book Early, Especially Around Busy Weeks
Downtown LA can get booked quickly during major conventions and holidays. If you’re planning for summer, Q4, or around a known conference, the earlier you reach out, the better your chances of securing your preferred space and date.
 
7. Ask for Help (That’s What We’re Here For)
Not sure what your budget can cover? Want advice on what other companies have done? We’re happy to recommend the best setup based on your goals and guest count.


A corporate happy hour doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right layout, food, and flow, it can be the easiest event of your quarter... and one your team will look forward to.

Looking for the perfect space in Downtown LA? Here are five reasons Bonaventure Brewing Co. might be the ideal spot for your next event.
1. Convenient Downtown Location
We're located inside the Westin Bonaventure Hotel, just one mile from the LA Convention Center. Perfect for teams staying onsite or attending events nearby.
2. Outdoor Garden Patio with Skyline Views
Our 3,000-square-foot rooftop garden is a favorite for evening events. It comes with lounge furniture, bistro lighting, and a built-in bar — all overlooking DTLA.
3. In-House Catering and Full Bar Options
No need to hire outside vendors. We offer everything from light appetizers to full dinners, plus house beer, wine, and cocktails.
4. Flexible Event Spaces for 20 to 300 Guests
Host an intimate gathering or take over the full space. We have options for groups of all sizes, with both private and semi-private layouts.
5. A Dedicated Event Team
We make planning easy. Our team helps guide layout, menu selections, and the flow of your event so everything runs smoothly.