Food & Beverage

The Aquarium of the Pacific requires that all food and beverage for special events be catered by our contracted provider SMG catering. We are not able to allow outside caterers.

Our professional catering staff will assist you with your food and beverage needs. We can customize menus and banquet themes for your event.

Food and beverage prices include set-up of house tables, china and linens (up to 300). For events above 300 please inquire about fees. Please add 20% service charge plus current California sales tax to the menu prices. Prices are subject to change. We guarantee pricing 90 days prior to the event.

Menu selection should take place at least two months prior to your event date. To ensure the best quality, we ask that you choose one menu option for your entire group for plated meals. However, substitutions due to dietary restrictions can always be arranged.

Placement of food and beverage stations in the aquarium is based on lighting availability, exhibit restrictions, and fire code requirements. Your catering contact will develop a floor plan that fits your needs and that follows the Aquarium guidelines.

A final guarantee of the number of guests is due by 12 noon, three working days prior to your event. We automatically prepare food for 5% more guests than your final guarantee, up to 1,000 people. For groups larger than 1,000, we will prepare food for 3% over your final guarantee. You will be charged for the food and beverage according to the final guarantee number or the actual number in attendance, whichever is greater.