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Emerald LoungeAMust Try

Name: Emerald Lounge
Address: 455 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102, St Paul, United States
Rating: 4.8

455 7th St W, St Paul, MN 55102 · Restaurant, Cocktail bar · 4.8/5 Google (301 reviews)

Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Stylish cocktail lounge delivering creative drinks and polished small plates in a cozy, crowded room; great for dates and friend meetups, but expect tight seating, waits, and premium pricing.

Why it gets an A for overall quality

Emerald Lounge exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional small-plate cuisine with creative global touches and outstanding cocktail expertise that elevates the entire experience. The exceptional design quality—lush, retro-cozy elegance—creates a destination atmosphere for date nights and celebrations. Minor friction from tight seating and occasional service delays during peak hours prevents perfection, but consistent execution and strong guest loyalty confirm this ranks among the region's finest cocktail lounges.

Restaurant Summary

Emerald Lounge hits first with a lush, cozy room and a buzz that feels celebratory rather than chaotic. Guests rave about bar craft and warm hospitality: "We were guided to the right cocktails and felt looked after." The only caveat is space—tables can be tightly packed and waits appear during peak hours. In the kitchen, the approach is creative comfort with global touches. Think bucatini in a subtle miso cream, Coca-Cola sesame wings with house sauce, and lemon-tarragon risotto under perfectly cooked chicken. It is not showy; it is dialed-in flavor that pairs naturally with serious cocktails. Families can make it work, but it is best for older kids or adventurous eaters. There is no kids menu, portions skew small-plate, and flavors lean bold; safer picks include pasta dishes, chips and dip, and simple salads. For very young or picky diners, consider a quick snack visit rather than a full meal.

At a Glance

Top-tier cocktails with knowledgeable guidance
Creative small plates that overdeliver for a lounge
Tight seating and waits during peak hours
Service can slow or miss checks when slammed
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

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creative_fusion_small_plates
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What People Love

Beautiful, intimate space with character
Bartenders who tailor drinks to preferences
Pastas and Brussels that surprise with depth
Happy hour and seasonal drink rotations

Points of Concern

Room can feel cramped; tables close and noise rises at peak
Service pacing varies; some long gaps during busy periods
Reservations help but do not eliminate short waits
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$38-$55 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For vegans: Sweet Potato Gnocchi and Curried Carrots and Hummus
For gluten-free: Chicken and Risotto, wings, Golden Brussels
Share 2-3 small plates per pair before a single pasta or entree

Perfect For

Date night with inventive cocktails
Pre-show drinks and bites on West 7th
Small-group catchups where ambiance matters
Solo bar seat with dealer’s choice cocktail

Location Insights

Area: Lively West 7th corridor with bars, restaurants, and event traffic; attracts date nights and after-work crowds.

Safety: Generally safe, active foot traffic evenings; typical urban awareness recommended late nights.

Nearby: Near Xcel Energy Center and West 7th dining; draws pre-show and neighborhood patrons.

LowertownLowertown is known for its historic warehouse buildings converted into lofts, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. The dining scene is eclectic, featuring upscale bistros, craft breweries, and casual eateries that cater to a creative and professional crowd. The neighborhood has a lively, walkable atmosphere with frequent community events and a strong arts presence.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday17:00–22:00 Wednesday17:00–22:00 Thursday17:00–22:00 Friday17:00–23:00 Saturday17:00–23:00 Sunday

Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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