Dining

Events

What are the minimum spend requirements for different types of events at SUSHISAMBA Covent Garden?

Exclusive hire requires a minimum spend starting from £45,000 excluding VAT and service charge. Semi-private dining for up to 80 guests has a minimum spend of £15,000-£18,000 including VAT, excluding 15% service charge. Group bookings start from £150 per person in December, and the Speakeasy bar requires £2,500 including VAT excluding 15% service charge for up to 30 guests.

What are the capacity limits for different areas and event formats?

The main restaurant accommodates 300 guests standing or 116 seated for exclusive hire. The semi-private dining area holds up to 80 guests across multiple tables with drinks reception space near the sushi counter. The Speakeasy bar accommodates up to 30 guests standing only.

What additional mandatory costs apply beyond the minimum spend?

All minimum spends exclude service charge at 15-18% depending on the area. For exclusive hire events, additional charges apply for security (£300 for 2 additional security personnel) and furniture removal (up to £2,000-£3,000 including VAT depending on requirements and guest numbers). No hire fees are charged for the venue itself.

What are the standard event timings and access arrangements?

Evening events typically run from 18:00 to midnight for exclusive hire, or 6pm till close for semi-private dining. The Speakeasy bar operates 18:30 to 21:30. Events requiring next-week confirmation need confirmation by 4pm the day before to secure the booking.

How far in advance can events be booked?

Semi-private dining areas are bookable two months in advance. Dates are only held upon specific request and require confirmation within tight timeframes - events for the following week need confirmation by 4pm the previous day.

What setup flexibility is available for different event formats?

For standing receptions, tables can be removed to create a more open layout, though booth seating remains in place as part of the fixed layout. The venue can accommodate both seated dinners and standing cocktail receptions, with furniture removal available as an additional service for exclusive hire events.

Are there specific restrictions or requirements for exclusive hire events?

Exclusive hire events require mandatory security personnel at £300 for 2 additional staff. Furniture removal costs up to £2,000-£3,000 including VAT depending on final requirements and guest numbers. The venue does not charge hire fees but these additional services are compulsory for exclusive use.

What happens if my budget doesn't meet the minimum spend requirements?

The venue will decline bookings that don't meet minimum spend requirements. For example, budgets under £45,000 for exclusive hire or under the specified minimums for other areas will not be accommodated. The venue suggests finding alternative venues if budget flexibility isn't possible.

What dining options and spaces are available for different group sizes?

Groups of 20-30 can use the Speakeasy bar with £2,500 minimum spend. Semi-private dining accommodates up to 80 guests with £15,000-£18,000 minimum spend including drinks reception space. Exclusive hire is required for groups over 100, with £45,000+ minimum spend for up to 300 standing or 116 seated.

How does the service charge structure work across different areas?

Service charges vary by area: 15% for most spaces including the Speakeasy bar and semi-private dining, but 18% for some exclusive hire events. The service charge is always calculated on the food and beverage minimum spend and is excluded from the quoted minimum spend amounts.