Top Appetizers And How to Choose the Right Ones

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.