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History of the East Bank Emporium Restaurant

The Emporium Restaurant is an independent, locally owned and operated restaurant since 1980.

In the early 1900's, there was a Tavern located in the Emporium building - the magnificent, ornate, back bar from that Tavern is still in use at the Emporium Restaurant.

For the 15 years before the restoration of the building for the Restaurant and shops, the building was an abandoned warehouse. The restoration began in 1979 and artifacts were collected from the area. The Grand staircase, Deacon's Bench, and Oak Doors with leaded, beveled glass windows are from old churches.

From the Emporium windows, those dining can see Century Center, Island Park, Waterfalls, the Mark di Suvero sculpture "Keepers of the Fire" and the famous East Race Waterway.

The Emporium building also houses Wearabouts Women's clothing, The Mole Hole, and the Male Room for a complete and unique shopping and dining experience. The second floor is occupied by the Richard Harrison Bailey Advertising Agency.

Hours of operation are Monday Thru Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

About the EAST RACE WATERWAY: In the 1940's it was a slow moving mill race. Today it is a million dollar white water race used for recreation, as a fish ladder and host to International Kayaking events.