For a venue hire that feels both theatrical and steeped in history, Indian restaurant Bengal Brasserie offers a rich, varied menu and immersive space for medium-sized groups. Established in 1987, it has long been part of Bath’s dining scene, and that sense of longevity carries through into its atmosphere making it both familiar and characterful, well suited to gatherings that call for a little personality.
Available for exclusive hire for up to 40 guests, the restaurant is perfect for private celebrations. The layout allows groups to take over the space entirely, creating a contained setting that feels removed from the outside world. It’s particularly effective for birthdays, group dinners or smaller corporate events where a sense of occasion matters, but without the formality of a larger venue.
The interiors play a key role. Booths carved into the walls, lined with red banquettes and lit by softly glowing lanterns, give the space a layered, almost magical quality. There’s something slightly transportive about it with intimate corners for conversation balanced by a more open dining room that allows the group to come together. It’s a setting that feels atmospheric, working especially well once the evening settles in.
Food follows the structure of a classic Indian menu, offering plenty of scope for group dining. Starters typically include familiar favourites such as onion bhajis, samosas, chicken tikka and pani puri, designed for sharing across the table. From there, the menu opens up into a wide selection of curries and tandoori dishes - everything from creamy kormas and butter chicken to richer, spiced options like bhuna, jalfrezi or vindaloo.
Grilled dishes such as chicken tikka or mixed tandoori platters add another layer, while vegetarian options and sides ensure there’s plenty of variety across the table. Rice, naan and accompaniments complete the spread, making it easy to build a menu that suits the group.