Where? Boston, MA
When? 6/27/12
Who? Me + Ryana
Big Night Entertainment Group has done it again. The company, which is responsible for Red Lantern, Gem, Estate, and other popular Boston-area venues, just opened Empire, a 14,000 square foot restolounge on Fan Pier by the Institute of Contemporary Art, and I attended the opening party.
Overall, the food was good, but I see Empire being the destination of people who primarily crave its genre of atmosphere. I predict that financiers and other professionals who work downtown will frequent the space.
I respect BNEG’s drive to bring classier, swankier establishments to the Boston night scene. Their three recently-opened venues, Empire, Gem, and Red Lantern, could easily fit in around New York City, but they shine in Boston.
Thank you again for a great party, Ed and Randy!
– the co-owner of BNEG, Ed Kane, sent me an invite to Empire’s opening party -
– complementary rides to the party were provided by Uber -
- my driver picked me up around 5:30 and picked up Ryana in FiDi, then we were brought to the party -
– my first impression of Empire was that it resembles Red Lantern -
- both restaurants share the same designer, Peter Niemitz, and focus on Asian-fusion cuisine -
- however, Red Lantern is themed around red lighting and decor, while Empire embodies more blue and green hues that channel its waterfront location -
– drinks and hors d’oeuvres were served -
– the open kitchen was busy preparing and sending out samples of the menu -
- I enjoyed most the lobster rangoons, shrimp shumai, and mango dessert shots -
