Groups & Events
Looking to host a memorable gathering? Whether it’s a milestone celebration, a long corporate luncheon, or a lively get-together with friends, The Cottage Balmain offers the perfect backdrop.
We pride ourselves on being flexible. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to tailor every detail – from personalised menus to the perfect drinks setup – so you can sit back and enjoy.
The Menu
Group Feasting menus: starting from $75pp. Our menus are designed to share and can be customised to accommodate tastes and dietary requirements. (children under 12 can order directly from our kids menu on the day). View the menus.
flexible drinks, your way
We know handling a group bar tab can be a headache. We keep it completely flexible depending on how you want to host:
- Host bar tab: pre-select your favourite wines, beers and cocktails to run on a single tab.
- Individual QR ordering: guests simply order and pay for their own drinks on their phones as they go.
- The Hybrid (most popular): put a set amount on a tab for arrival drinks, and seamlessly switch to individual QR code payments once the limit is reached.
how it works: 3 simple steps
- Step 1: Secure your date and space: Review our spaces below and proceed with checking availability and making a reservation with approximate guest numbers. (have a unique request? complete our quick enquiry form below)
- Step 2: We lock in the details: At the start of the week of your reservation, our team will reach out via email to finalise your exact guest count, menu choices, individual dietary requirements and your preferred beverage setup.
- Step 3: Show up & celebrate: Leave the rest to us.
FAQ
Do you charge a group service fee?
Nope! We don’t believe in charging you extra just for bringing a crowd. Unlike most venues, there is absolutely no mandatory large-group service fee or group surcharge. The only exception is our standard 10% Sunday surcharge, which applies to all food and beverage venue-wide (for both groups and regular diners) to help us look after our team on weekends.
How long do we have the space for?
We offer a generous 3-hour time limit for group bookings, giving you plenty of time to relax and feast. If you think your celebration might need a bit more time, just let us know in advance and we will always do our best to accommodate you.
What is your deposit and cancellation policy?
To secure your space, a booking deposit is required. Deposits are non-refundable if a booking is cancelled. However, we know life happens—if you need to reschedule, please reach out to our team as early as possible to discuss a change of date. Deposits are applied to your bill as a prepayment on the day of your event.
Can we order à la carte, or do we have to do a set menu? For groups booked in The Atrium (10+ guests) or The Loft (10+ guests), we require groups to dine on one of our delicious Group Feasting Menus (starting from $75pp). These menus can be customised to suit tastes and dietary requirements.
How do you handle dietary requirements? Incredibly easily! Our menus are highly adaptable. We will reach out to you at the start of the week of your booking to gather all dietary requirements and allergies. To keep things seamless on the floor, we just ask that you link the dietary need to the guest’s first name.
What are the options for children?
Kids aged 12 and under do not need to dine on the group menu. They are welcome to order directly from our kids’ menu on the day of your event.
Please note we do not host children’s birthday parties. All minors under the age of 18 years of age must have their parent or legal guardian in attendance with them. One parent cannot be the guardian of a group of unrelated minors.
How do drinks work for groups?
We offer total flexibility. You can run a traditional host bar tab, have guests pay as they go via their own phones using our individual QR codes, or do our popular Hybrid option (a pre-selected round of arrival drinks on your tab, switching to QR codes afterward).
Can we bring our own celebration cake?
You are more than welcome to bring a cake! We charge a small cakeage fee of $3 per person, which covers storage, cutting, and serving it beautifully for your guests.
Can we bring decorations?
Yes! Feel free to dress up the space with flowers, balloons, or banners to make it your own. The only strict rule we have is no confetti, please!
Can we play our own music or playlists?
To maintain a great atmosphere across the whole venue, we play our own curated background music throughout the spaces. External music or amplified devices are not permitted.
alfresco dining
The Atrium
Nestled at the back of the venue, this light filled private courtyard is the perfect connection between the outdoors and indoors. Featuring a louvered roof, heating and plenty of greenery. Groups can also enjoy welcome drinks at the private bar before moving onto dining.
The Atrium has a tranquil, relaxing vibe. The ideal space to indulge and celebrate.
Capacities
Group dining – 16
Minimum guests for exclusive use – 9
stylish and welcoming
The Loft
Floating above the main restaurant, this is a mezzanine space can cater to larger dining groups. It enjoys great natural light, is perfect for long lunches, and becomes a cozy and intimate space in the evening.
Capacities
Group dining – 30
Minimum guests for exclusive use – 18
Check Availability & book your space