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Empress Tavern

4.4(557)
American Restaurant

About

Empress Tavern offers elevated American plates and inventive cocktails in a stylish, brick-lined vaulted space beneath the historic Crest Theater. The venue’s rotating chef-driven menus spotlight local farms and emerging culinary talents, making it a dynamic spot for light bites and drinks before or after meetings.

Ideal for groups, Empress Tavern combines a distinctive atmosphere with attentive service, supporting Sacramento’s food ecosystem and workforce development through its partnership with Alchemist CDC. It’s a compelling choice for business events seeking a socially conscious, hospitality-led experience.

Best for

  • Client dinners with inventive American cuisine
  • Pre-show drinks & light bites
  • Small group celebrations in a stylish setting

Request a Package

Tell the venue what you're planning and they'll respond with a custom proposal within 1–2 business days.

Group Dining Event

Custom request

Perfect for team dinners, client lunches, and celebration meals. Reserve a private or semi-private space for your group with food, drinks, and AV if needed.

What's typically included

  • Private or semi-private space
  • Food & beverage
  • AV & technology

Happy Hour

Custom request

Host a relaxed evening reception for your team or clients. Reserve a space for drinks and light bites in a social, low-key setting.

What's typically included

  • Private or semi-private space
  • Food & beverage

Full Buyout

Custom request

Take over the entire restaurant for your event. Full control of the space, menu, and atmosphere — ideal for large celebrations or exclusive corporate events.

What's typically included

  • Full venue layout
  • Food & beverage
  • AV & technology

Venue Details

Standout features

Culinary Innovation
Dynamic chef-driven menus with rotating kitchen takeovers
The venue hosts a culinary incubator program featuring emerging local chefs and rotating pop-ups, offering guests a chance to experience inventive and evolving American plates that highlight Sacramento’s food producers.
Atmosphere
Stylish brick-lined vaulted interior
The space features a distinctive vaulted ceiling with exposed brick, creating a stylish and memorable environment that balances historic charm with a modern dining experience.

At a glance

Rated 4.4 on Google · 557 reviews