Business

Dining

Events

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

Minimum spends vary significantly by event type and guest count. For exclusive hire, minimum spend starts from £25,000 excluding VAT and service charge for smaller events, rising to £45,000 excluding VAT for larger exclusive hires. Semi-private dining for up to 80 guests requires £15,000-£18,000 including VAT excluding 15% service charge. Group bookings start from £150 per person in December.

What are the capacity limits for different dining configurations?

For exclusive hire, the venue accommodates 300 guests standing or 116 seated. 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 exclusive hire events require additional charges for security and furniture removal, with no venue hire fee charged. Security costs £300 for 2 additional personnel, and furniture removal can cost up to £2,000-£3,000 including VAT depending on requirements and final guest numbers. A 15-18% service charge applies to all food and beverage minimum spends.

What are the standard event timings and access arrangements?

Evening events typically run from 18:00 to midnight for exclusive hire, with access from 17:00 onwards for setup. Semi-private events run from 6pm till close. The speakeasy bar operates from 18:30 to 21:30. Lunch events can be accommodated from 12:00-16:00 for exclusive hire.

How far in advance can events be booked and what are the confirmation requirements?

Semi-private dining areas are bookable two months in advance. For urgent bookings, confirmation may be required within 24-48 hours, with some events requiring confirmation by 4pm the following day. Dates are only held upon specific request.

What dining spaces are available and how do they differ?

The venue offers three main options: full exclusive hire of the restaurant (300 standing/116 seated), semi-private dining area for up to 80 guests across multiple tables with sushi counter reception space, and the speakeasy bar for intimate events up to 30 standing guests. The semi-private area includes booth seating that remains in place during standing receptions.

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 as part of the fixed layout. The semi-private area can accommodate both seated dining across multiple tables and standing reception formats with drinks space near the sushi counter.

Are there seasonal pricing variations or date-specific restrictions?

December pricing shows higher minimums, with group bookings starting from £150 per person. Semi-private area minimums vary between £15,000-£18,000 including VAT depending on the specific date. Exclusive hire minimums range from £25,000 to £45,000 excluding VAT based on event size and timing.

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

The venue has strict minimum spend requirements and will decline bookings that don't meet these thresholds. For example, budgets under £2,500 for the speakeasy or under £45,000 for exclusive hire will not be accommodated, with the venue suggesting clients find alternative venues if budget flexibility isn't possible.

What catering and beverage options are included in the minimum spend?

The minimum spend covers food and beverage costs but excludes service charges (15-18%). Canapé menus and beverage books are available for review. The venue offers Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine with options for various dietary requirements, though specific menu details require direct consultation with the events team.