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Understanding Food and Beverage Minimums: What They Are and How to Use Them

6/27/2025

 
​​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.
What Is a Food and Beverage Minimum?
A food and beverage minimum is the minimum amount you commit to spending on food and drinks during your event. It’s not an extra fee. Instead, it’s a credit you use to build out your event menu.
For example, if your event has a $5,000 minimum, you can use that amount toward anything from appetizers and buffet service to a full hosted bar. As long as your total food and drink order reaches $5,000, you’ve met the minimum.

What Counts Toward the Minimum?
At Bonaventure Brewing Co., your food and beverage minimum can be applied to:
  • Hors d’oeuvres or appetizer platters
  • Buffet or plated dinner options
  • Bar packages like open bar, beer and wine, drink tickets, or on-consumption service
  • Non-alcoholic beverages
  • Dessert add-ons including our churro bar, ice cream sandwich station, or cookie and brownie platters
Items that are not included in the minimum:
  • Site rental and coordination fees
  • Service charge and tax
  • Vendor-related fees or outside rentals

How to Use Your Minimum Strategically
Think of the minimum as your starting point. It gives you flexibility to build an event that works for your budget and your guests. You are not locked into any one package. Instead, you can choose how to allocate that spend.
Some clients prioritize food and use the full minimum for a dinner buffet with a light bar setup. Others choose a cocktail-heavy event with elevated appetizers and a premium bar. We can help you build a custom setup that uses your full credit in a way that matches your vision.

What If You Don’t Reach the Minimum?
If your selections come in under the minimum, the difference will be added to your final bill. But in most cases, clients naturally meet or exceed it once food, drinks, and dessert are finalized. If you're close but not quite there, we’re happy to suggest upgrades or add-ons so you get the most value for your event.

Why We Use Minimums
Food and beverage minimums allow us to reserve the space for your event and ensure that we staff and stock everything specifically for your group. It also gives you a set target to plan around without surprise costs. You can think of it as a guaranteed spend, not a fee.

We’re Here to Help You Build a Package That Works
When you inquire, we’ll let you know the food and beverage minimum for your preferred date, time, and space. From there, we’ll help you create a custom proposal that fits your guest count and style. If you give us a target budget, we’ll recommend the best way to make it work.

Let’s Talk About Your Event
If you're planning a private event at our Downtown Los Angeles event venue, our food and beverage minimums make it easy to customize your experience. If you’re unsure how to make the most of your minimum or want to see what a typical menu looks like at your price point, just reach out. We’re always happy to walk through it with you.

Contact us today! 
[email protected]
714-402-3316

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