Benicia Veterans Memorial Hall

I am giving it 1 star because of its location. Everything else about my interactions with the Veteran’s Hall staff was a nightmare. When I first reserved the hall (pre-covid), i worked with a wonderful lady named Patty who said we should get the date on the books and could work out specifics later (note to self: In retrospect, I should have been better at getting things in writing). Fast forward to Summer 2021. The first hurdle was the new manager, Pete. First he said we couldn’t use glassware because they had just refinished the floors. I’m not throwing an event with red solo cups so we finally came to an understanding about that. Next issue was that the caterer could not use the kitchen. Even though this was a licensed, bonded and insured vendor, kitchen access is for members only. Because the caterer couldn’t use the kitchen, they were required to cook in the parking lot and use the utility room upstairs for all meal preparations and service. The next issue: THE BAR. Pete indicated that guests could go downstairs to access the bar. We indicated that we wanted guests to be able to access drinks upstairs where the reception was being held. He said the only place we could have a full bar would be in the same room that the caterers were using. I expressed my concern that guests shouldn’t be walking in areas where food and liquid could possibly have spilled on the floor. This seemed to be a risky suggestion. Finally, we were forced to have beer and wine only which Pete allowed upstairs with his bartender. I’ve saved the worst for last. The Monday before the event, the caterer and rental company vendor came to do a final walk-thru at the Hall to make sure that brought all necessary supplies with them the day of the event. Pete was not there so the bartender gave them access. Apparently the visit upset Pete and he called my husband at 9:30 that evening yelling at my husband and telling us that he should just cancel our event. The day of the event, Pete threatened us again saying he should shut us down because we opened the windows during setup. Keep in mind it was 90 degrees and the air conditioner was not on. I spent $2,000 for the use of the hall and received nothing but continual obstacles. I only kept the event at the Hall because my son proposed at the Gazebo across the street so there was special meaning. Thank goodness for Quantum Party Productions and Carrie Dove Catering. Not only did they put up with all the grief from Pete, they made the event AMAZING! Do not use this facility. It is definitely not worth the stress and aggravation.

Attended my cousins wedding here. The venue didn't put out enough (14 rounds) tables as planned an only 10 were there leaving quite a few family members bothered. There were plenty of clean restrooms am good ventilation of the upper hall. It was catered so not sure about those restrictions.

The people make this place so much fun. They are truly the kindest, honest, and giving folks I've ever met. I feel blessed to work there. The food is beyond fabulous with St. Patrick's Day being my most favorite meal.. or wait, it was the Lasagna... The food is good!