Dining

Events

Weddings

What are the minimum spend requirements for private dining events at Penelope's Restaurant?

For groups of 25+ guests, set menu options start at £70 per person with a 25% deposit required based on guest count and chosen menu (e.g., 25% of 30 x £70 set menus). For exclusive private hire, minimum spend ranges from £10,000-£16,000 plus 12.5% service charge, with 20% VAT included, depending on the date and guest count.

What are the capacity limits for different dining configurations at Penelope's?

Penelope's can accommodate up to 130 guests for seated dining or 180 for standing receptions when exclusively hired. For semi-exclusive reservations, the elevated section can host up to 25 guests for both seated and standing formats, while the main dining area can accommodate up to 50 guests for semi-exclusive hire.

What dining style and cuisine does Penelope's offer for private events?

Penelope's specializes in Middle Eastern-Spanish fusion cuisine served family-style with a sharing concept. Dishes are served on multiple shareable plates for guests to enjoy together rather than individual plating, featuring items like Paella Israeli style with whole lobster, frekkeh, and gin-tomato sauce.

What are the standard operating hours and event timing restrictions?

Events typically run from 5pm to 12am with last bar orders between 11:15-11:30pm, and the space must be cleared by 12am due to licensing restrictions. For lunch events outside normal operation hours (earliest 1pm), the kitchen opens from 5pm with minimum spend starting at £6,000 plus 15% service charge.

How far in advance must food and beverages be pre-ordered?

Food and beverage selections must be pre-ordered by 5pm the day before your event. For last-minute enquiries, this deadline may be extended, but advance ordering is mandatory as the venue operates on minimum spend rather than packages.

What deposit and payment terms apply for private dining bookings?

A 25% deposit is required to secure reservations, calculated based on guest count and chosen set menu. For groups of 25+, full payment of set menus is required upfront as deposit, which is then discounted from the final bill on the evening.

Are there additional charges beyond the minimum spend that should be budgeted?

Yes, a 12.5% service charge applies to all food and beverage consumption, and entertainment/decoration is charged additionally based on artist fees. DJs that the venue collaborates with charge £500 for 4-hour performances, and there's a 10% commission on the final net amount plus VAT (excluding service charge, cancellations, entertainment, or external hire).

What AV equipment and technical facilities are included?

The restaurant includes basic AV systems, and microphones for speeches are provided free of charge. However, specific technical requirements should be discussed during booking as additional AV equipment may incur extra charges.

How long are quotes valid and what booking process should be expected?

All quotes are valid for 5 working days only and are subject to availability changes. Dates are only held upon specific request, and the venue is experiencing high demand for Summer 2025 (May-September) with availability constantly changing unless a tour is booked.

What are the site visit availability and booking confirmation procedures?

Site visits are available Monday-Friday 11am-5pm and Saturdays 3pm-7pm. Upon arrival, ask for the events team at reception. Tours can be arranged to view the space and discuss layout options, including the possibility of removing loose furniture to accommodate different event setups.