Private Dining FAQs — Luxury Japanese Private Events in Pasadena

At Kaviar, private dining is a chef‑led, upscale option for celebrations and corporate hospitality. We blend refined Japanese technique with exceptional ingredients to craft memorable tasting experiences. This FAQ answers the questions planners and discerning diners ask most: how to inquire and reserve, room options and capacities, menu customization (including omakase, A5 Wagyu, and caviar service), deposit and policy expectations, supported event types, and the value‑add services that define a luxury private event in Pasadena. You’ll find step‑by‑step booking guidance, a checklist of information to prepare, how we handle dietary needs, and how AV and service choices shape the guest experience. Use the quick tables and lists for side‑by‑side comparisons, then contact us for exact capacities and contract specifics. Whether you’re planning an intimate tasting, a corporate client dinner, or a private caviar session, this guide helps you plan confidently and efficiently.

How Do I Book a Private Dining Event at Kaviar Restaurant Pasadena?

Start your private dining booking with a focused inquiry that outlines the event scope; that lets our team put together a tailored proposal and timeline. Typically we follow an inquiry → proposal → confirmation workflow: you share preferred dates, approximate guest count, desired menu style (omakase, wagyu‑forward tasting, etc.), and any AV or accessibility needs. From there we deliver a proposal with menu options, staffing recommendations, and deposit and confirmation deadlines. This process aligns expectations and speeds decision‑making. Below, we break down the exact steps to make reaching out straightforward.

When you’re ready to inquire, include the key details event planners need for an accurate estimate: at least two preferred dates, a realistic guest range, the event type (corporate dinner, tasting, celebration), and any menu priorities like omakase or A5 Wagyu. Noting dietary restrictions up front avoids last‑minute changes. Also tell us if you require full privacy or a semi‑private layout and any AV requirements so we can recommend the right space and staffing. Supplying this information up front shortens turnaround and moves the proposal toward deposit and confirmation smoothly.

What Is the Process to Inquire or Reserve a Private Dining Room?

Begin by submitting a detailed inquiry listing preferred dates, estimated guest count, event purpose, and menu direction—this triggers Kaviar’s event planning process. After we receive your inquiry, expect a collaborative proposal outlining menu choices, seating options, staffing, and a recommended timeline for deposit and final guest count. Once you accept the proposal, we’ll request a deposit or contract to hold the date and finalize menus; after that we confirm logistics like arrival timing, AV setup, and any special requests. Open communication at every stage minimizes surprises and ensures a polished on‑site execution.

Using a brief inquiry template helps us respond faster and with greater accuracy. Include event date(s), start and end times, estimated attendees, preferred service style (seated tasting, family‑style, or stations), and any must‑haves such as the private caviar room or a particular wine program. Sharing a target budget range also lets us propose realistic packages that match your goals. Having these details ready accelerates the proposal‑to‑confirmation timeline and clarifies deposit and cancellation expectations.

How Far in Advance Should I Book My Private Event?

Lead time depends on scale: small omakase tastings can often be scheduled with shorter notice, while larger events and specialty menus need more advance planning. Peak seasons and holidays fill quickly and premium ingredients such as A5 Wagyu and select caviar may require additional sourcing time. As a guideline, start conversations as early as possible so the kitchen can secure specialty items and the private caviar room if needed. Early planning gives you more flexibility on menu customization, seating layouts, and dedicated service staff.

If your timeline is tight, note that in your initial inquiry so we can explore expedited sourcing or alternate menu options. Rush bookings may limit access to certain premium items or customization, but we do our best to accommodate high‑intent requests. Confirming guest counts and menu choices promptly after proposal acceptance reduces risk and helps suppliers meet your needs. Knowing these timelines helps you decide what’s feasible within your budget.

What Are the Capacity and Private Dining Room Options at Kaviar?

Kaviar offers a range of private spaces—from intimate chef‑led seats to enclosed private rooms—each designed for specific event types and guest expectations. Our spaces prioritize privacy, a refined atmosphere, and consistent service, and they accommodate tasting sequences, seated multi‑course dinners, and exclusive experiences like the private caviar room. Standard amenities include dedicated servers, discreet AV options, and custom table arrangements to suit presentation needs. Use the summary below as a starting point, then contact us for exact capacities and layout details.

The quick comparison below highlights common private spaces and typical amenities so you can match event needs to room type. Exact capacities vary with seating format (banquet, boardroom, U‑shape) and added elements like chef stations or AV equipment—request a site plan for precise measurements. After reviewing options, ask for a gallery or virtual tour to confirm atmosphere and finalize the setup.

What Is the Minimum and Maximum Guest Capacity for Private Dining?

Guest capacity depends on room configuration, seating style, and whether a chef station or presentation area is required. Rather than fixed numbers, we assess each event to recommend a setup that balances comfort and service efficiency—please request precise capacities for your chosen configuration. Factors such as banquet versus tasting seating, AV footprints, and service circulation affect maximums; intimate tastings often reduce seated counts to preserve the experience. Asking for a sample floor plan and seating chart during the proposal phase prevents last‑minute surprises.

Because capacities vary by configuration, include your intended service style and presentation needs when requesting numbers. A chef‑led omakase, for example, may need counter or service space that reduces seated capacity compared with plated multi‑course service. Early coordination ensures the recommended capacity matches your goals for intimacy or scale and informs minimum spend and staffing considerations.

What Private Dining Spaces and Amenities Are Available?

Our private spaces are outfitted to support luxury events and smooth logistics: private service teams, adjustable lighting, and presentation‑ready layouts. AV options include screens and sound systems suitable for presentations or slideshows; we’ll advise on setups that preserve an intimate dining atmosphere. The private caviar room offers a secluded setting for curated tastings and elevated presentations that showcase premium ingredients. For planning, request photos or a virtual tour to confirm ambiance and flow before booking.

Consider add‑ons like customized décor, branded menus, or specialty service moments—these enhance guest experience and can be included in your proposal. If you’re using external vendors for florals or staging, we coordinate vendor access and timing to ensure a seamless setup. Discuss these amenity preferences during the proposal so they’re included in the event estimate and timeline.

Can I Customize the Menu for My Private Dining Experience?

Menu customization is central to private dining at Kaviar. We work with hosts to design bespoke menus that highlight premium Japanese ingredients and chef‑led tasting structures. Choose from menu formats like omakase, a wagyu‑forward tasting, or a curated caviar service—then we collaborate to match pacing, pairings, and presentation to your room and guests. Custom beverage pairings, timing adjustments, and stylistic touches help create a signature experience that suits the occasion.

The comparison below outlines common private‑menu formats and what to expect in terms of pacing and customization. Discuss menu direction early in the proposal so we can ensure ingredient availability—specialty items often require lead time—and design smooth transitions between courses. Final menu confirmations should be submitted before the final guest count deadline to guarantee sourcing and staffing.

Do You Offer Omakase, A5 Wagyu, and Caviar for Private Events?

Yes. Our private dining menus can include omakase sequences, A5 Wagyu presentations, and curated caviar services as part of bespoke events—subject to availability and lead time. Omakase is a chef‑driven sequence tailored to your group; an A5 Wagyu menu spotlights premium beef with precise preparation; and caviar can be served as a dedicated tasting or woven into courses as a luxurious accent. Because these elements often require advance sourcing, discuss them early so we can secure the desired components.

When you request premium inclusions, share presentation and pairing preferences in your initial inquiry so the proposal can account for sourcing, staffing, and pacing. Our culinary team balances showmanship with practicality to ensure each premium element enhances the overall tasting flow. Early confirmation of these choices also informs deposit and minimum‑spend details in the policies section.

Are Special Menus Available for Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?

We accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies by creating alternative courses and substitutions that preserve the tasting flow while keeping guests safe. Please disclose restrictions early so our culinary team can design parallel plates or modified sequences that maintain pacing and presentation without compromising flavor. We follow allergen‑aware practices and advise on cross‑contact considerations, but detailed allergy information well before the event is essential for secure preparation.

For complex dietary needs or groups with varied restrictions, the proposal can include sample substitute menus and a confirmation process for final dietary requirements. This collaborative approach protects guest wellbeing and preserves the bespoke character of the experience. Early communication reduces last‑minute changes and clarifies timing and cost expectations.

What Are the Policies and Requirements for Private Dining at Kaviar?

Private events typically require a deposit and may be subject to a minimum spend to secure space, staffing, and specialty ingredients; these standard practices protect both the host and the restaurant. Policies specify when a deposit is due, how minimum spend is applied, and deadlines for final guest counts and menu confirmations—creating a clear timeline for planning and payment. Cancellation and rescheduling terms are included in event agreements to address changes while balancing supplier commitments and staffing. The table below summarizes common policy categories to expect during proposal review.

Is There a Minimum Spend or Deposit Requirement?

Many private events require a minimum spend or deposit to hold a date and offset initial costs for specialty sourcing and staffing. These mechanisms let us commit to premium sourcing—important when your event includes items like A5 Wagyu or curated caviar—and provide mutual assurance between host and restaurant. We don’t publish fixed amounts publicly; instead, we provide event‑specific estimates in the proposal that reflect menu choices, room selection, and headcount. Requesting an itemized estimate shows how minimum spend maps to food, beverage, and service for accurate budgeting.

When discussing deposits and minimums, tell us your approximate budget and menu preferences so we can align recommendations with your expectations. Knowing what the deposit secures (date, initial orders, staffing) helps you weigh refundable versus non‑refundable terms and decide whether to purchase event insurance or choose more flexible arrangements. Clear budgeting supports smoother finalization of guest counts and menus.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Private Events?

Cancellation policies protect both host and venue by defining timelines for refunds, forfeitures, and possible rescheduling; terms vary with event scale, lead time, and whether specialty ingredients have already been ordered. We outline cancellation and rescheduling conditions in event agreements so hosts understand potential financial implications tied to vendor commitments and staffing. Review these terms during proposal acceptance and notify us promptly if details or dates change—early communication often makes rescheduling or partial refunds possible, depending on vendor obligations.

If cancellation risk is a concern, discuss flexible options during proposal review to explore ways to reduce potential losses—switching menu items to lower costs or allowing limited guest‑count adjustments within specified windows, for example. Confirming the final guest count by the stated deadline reduces uncertainty and helps avoid penalties. Clear contractual terms plus open planning conversations lead to fair outcomes when changes occur.

What Types of Events Can Be Hosted in Kaviar’s Private Dining Rooms?

Our private dining rooms host a wide array of events—from corporate client dinners and executive meetings to personal celebrations and exclusive tastings. Each event benefits from tailored service, a menu structured to the occasion, and a room setup that supports your goals. Kaviar’s refined Japanese fine‑dining atmosphere suits intimate milestones, high‑end tastings, and professional gatherings that need privacy and attentive service. For each event type we can recommend a menu format—omakase for a tasting experience, wagyu‑centric menus for celebratory dinners—and suggest AV or layout changes for presentations. The examples below illustrate common use cases and planning notes.

Planners often ask which formats work best for specific objectives; the list below pairs event types with recommended service styles and planning tips. This helps you choose between a seated tasting, a plated business dinner, or a curated caviar reception. After you select an event type, tell us your timing, AV needs, and desired guest experience so we can propose an appropriate plan and staffing level.

• Corporate dinners: Plated multi‑course service with optional AV for presentations and discreet, professional staffing to support conversation and timing.
• Celebrations (birthdays, anniversaries): Chef‑led tastings or wagyu‑focused menus with personalized touches such as plated desserts or a dedicated tasting moment.
• Exclusive tastings and product dinners: Omakase sequences or caviar‑focused events that highlight premium ingredients and deliberate pacing.

Which Corporate and Business Events Are Supported?

We support client dinners, executive meetings, and product hospitality in private settings that prioritize discretion and presentation readiness. Corporate events typically need quiet areas for conversation, dependable AV for presentations, and efficient service pacing; we coordinate these logistics as part of the proposal. For gatherings with presentations, discuss AV needs and timing early so the room layout preserves sightlines and acoustics. Thoughtful service paired with an elevated menu lets companies deliver polished hospitality that reflects well on their guests and brand.

When planning corporate events, include any branding, presentation, or strict timing requirements in your inquiry so we can factor the right AV, layout, and staffing into the proposal. Our private spaces are well suited for dinners that blend culinary excellence with professional needs, and we work with planners to ensure transitions between presentation segments and dining courses are seamless.

What Celebrations and Special Occasions Are Ideal for Private Dining?

Kaviar is ideal for milestone celebrations—birthdays, anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and intimate engagements—where an elevated menu and focused service make the occasion memorable. Hosts often choose omakase or wagyu‑focused formats so the meal itself becomes the centerpiece; the private caviar room offers a particularly exclusive setting for high‑touch tastings. We can arrange personal touches like curated dessert presentations or timed toasts in your proposal so service aligns with celebratory moments. Planning early lets us integrate custom menu notes or speech pacing into the event flow.

To ensure celebratory elements fit naturally, tell us timing for speeches, cake service, or surprises during the proposal stage. That allows us to schedule service breaks and coordinate plating so these moments feel integrated rather than disruptive. Careful coordination produces an elegant celebration that highlights both cuisine and occasion.

How Does Kaviar Enhance the Private Dining Experience?

Kaviar elevates private dining through chef‑led presentations, thoughtfully curated pairings, and dedicated service that foreground premium Japanese ingredients and an intimate atmosphere. Our private caviar room, careful A5 Wagyu preparation, and omakase expertise combine to create experiences that stand apart from ordinary private venues. Added value comes from tailored beverage pairings, deliberate pacing, and attention to plating and storytelling—details that elevate each course and the overall evening. These elements make Kaviar a compelling choice for guests seeking luxury private dining in Pasadena.

Below are common enhancements planners request to elevate private events. Include these in your proposal so we can allocate time and resources for a refined execution.

• Chef‑led tastings and table‑side presentations to highlight technique and ingredient provenance.
• Curated beverage pairings that complement multi‑course progressions and premium items like caviar.
• Coordination of décor and vendor access to ensure cohesive styling and seamless setup.

What Audiovisual and Decor Services Are Available?

We offer AV support suited to presentations and ambient enhancements, and we’ll match equipment to your needs while preserving the dining atmosphere. Typical AV includes screen and projection options, discreet sound for speeches or background music, and microphone setups that keep clarity without overpowering conversation. For décor, we can advise on styling and, when appropriate, coordinate with external florists or event stylists to manage delivery and setup timing. Early coordination ensures technical and aesthetic elements complement the culinary program rather than interrupt it.

If you plan to use external vendors for décor or staging, discuss vendor access and timing during the proposal phase so logistics are included in the event timeline. Our team facilitates vendor coordination to protect the dining environment and ensure AV and décor integrate smoothly with service flow.

What Makes Kaviar’s Private Dining Unique in Pasadena?

Kaviar’s private dining is defined by premium Japanese ingredients—A5 Wagyu and refined caviar presentations—executed in an upscale fine‑dining setting with chef‑led sequences and meticulous service. The private caviar room and tailored omakase experiences offer an exclusivity and culinary narrative that lift celebrations and corporate hospitality above standard dinners. Paired with attentive professional service and flexible menu pacing, these elements form a distinct private dining proposition in Pasadena. If your event centers on exceptional ingredients and personalized service, contact us early so we can curate a bespoke experience that matches your vision.

To begin planning a private event at Kaviar, call us at (626) 605‑0330 or submit an event inquiry through our online reservation channels. Share preferred dates, guest range, and any priority menu items like omakase or caviar for the quickest proposal turnaround. Request a gallery or virtual tour and we’ll provide an event proposal with menu options and policy details. Contacting us early helps secure premium ingredients and preferred spaces—be sure to ask about bespoke menus and private caviar tastings when you inquire.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal guest count for a private dining event at Kaviar?

Ideal guest counts vary by room and seating arrangement. Intimate gatherings can start around 6 guests; larger events may accommodate up to 50 or more depending on the space and configuration. Share your expected count during the inquiry so we can recommend the best room and layout to ensure comfort and an exceptional dining experience.

Can I bring my own decorations or vendors for my event?

Yes. You may bring decorations or hire external vendors—florists, stylists, and the like. Please discuss vendor plans during the proposal stage so we can align on timing, access, and any requirements to preserve the dining environment. Early coordination ensures a seamless setup.

Are there any special packages or promotions for private dining events?

From time to time we offer special packages or promotions, particularly in off‑peak periods or for select occasions. These may include menu discounts, complimentary elements, or curated experiences. For current offers, inquire directly during your planning process so we can share the latest options for your date.

What is the recommended dress code for private dining events?

Recommended dress is upscale casual to formal, reflecting our refined atmosphere and fine‑dining service. Elegant attire complements special occasions and corporate events; if you have a themed event or specific dress expectations, let us know so we can note it for your guests.

Can I schedule a tasting before finalizing my menu?

Yes. We offer tasting opportunities to help you finalize menu selections. Tastings should be scheduled in advance—ideally when you submit your initial inquiry—and we’ll coordinate available dishes to reflect your planned menu. This step ensures the final offerings align with your expectations.

What happens if my guest count changes after booking?

If your guest count changes, notify us as soon as possible. Adjustments are allowed up to the deadline specified in your event agreement; changes may affect minimum spend, seating, and menu planning. Early notice gives us the best chance to accommodate revisions and minimizes cost or service impacts.

Conclusion

Choosing Kaviar for private dining guarantees a refined, memorable experience—thoughtful Japanese cuisine presented with attentive, personalized service. This FAQ equips you to plan confidently, from menu customization to room selection. When you’re ready, reach out and we’ll prepare a bespoke proposal to elevate your private event in Pasadena.