June 12, 2025

This piece is sponsored by Vanguard Hospitality.

When the team at South Dakota Trust Co. hosts a corporate lunch, it’s always a short walk from the downtown office to the location of choice: Minervas.

“It continues to exceed our expectations,” executive assistant Kate Joffer said.

“The staff is consistently attentive and professional, and they always go the extra mile to accommodate our needs.  The food is always exceptionally fresh, thoughtfully prepared and delicious.”

Minervas offers multiple spaces capable of hosting events of many sizes, including its recently updated lower level.

A sophisticated, private venue, it can accommodate groups of up to 50 people.

“This space has hosted a variety of events, including rehearsal dinners, intimate weddings, family reunions, pharmaceutical and business dinners, as well as numerous festive Christmas parties,” said Taunya Jones, event planner at Minervas.

“Recently, the room has undergone an elegant transformation, featuring crystal chandeliers, exquisite artwork and stylish yet comfortable seating arrangements that enhance the overall ambiance.”

One family who recently booked the lower-level space found it an ideal spot to host out-of-town guests the night before their son’s wedding.

“Every part of our experience with Minervas was wonderful, and we received so many compliments from our guests about the beautiful room, great service and wonderful food,” the mother of the groom said.

“Taunya Jones walked us through the initial planning, assisting us with setup ideas and event timing. She was so helpful with suggestions about the menu and very accommodating in setting up a tour, answering our emails and keeping us informed throughout.”

The room itself “was elegant and beautifully decorated and very comfortable for our guests with a combination of chairs, loveseats and tables,” she continued.

“The food was delicious and beautifully presented, and the service was outstanding – attentive, caring and friendly. The staff even went above and beyond to assist an elderly guest in negotiating the stairs. We wholeheartedly recommend Minervas for any special event that you want to be extra-special.”

A party room on the main floor of Minervas offers another option for events. This semiprivate area can host up to 70 people.

“It offers a lively, yet relaxed setting suitable for larger events,” Jones said.

“For menu selection, larger groups often opt to choose three or four items from a curated selection tailored for their event. While smaller groups are welcome to do the same, many prefer to select from our regular menu offerings.”

Outside of the main Minervas space, the adjacent Paramount Studio Cocktails & Food can be an additional option for events.

The Paramount Room is available for private parties on a limited basis.

South Dakota Trust finds Paramount’s private dining room “perfect for business gatherings,” Joffer said. “It is comfortable, quiet and beautifully set up to allow for good conversation.”

Minervas “has become our go-to spot for corporate lunches,” she added. “I highly recommend it to any business looking for a reliable, high-quality experience with a personal touch.”

Minervas has plenty of options in the coming months in all its event spaces, but groups are starting to book out as far as the holiday season.

To learn more about event options at Minervas and check the availability of specific dates, please visit here and complete the Request for Proposal form at the bottom of the page. A member of the team will respond to your request within 24 hours.