The Emerson is truly one of those places that delivers every single time. Tyler has built something special here, and you can feel it the moment you walk in. The food is next level, with Chef Sean as the secret weapon in the kitchen. Every dish feels intentional, elevated, and consistently on point. And then there's the bar... the mixology is just as impressive. Whether you're ordering a classic or something creative, the cocktails are crafted with the same level of care as the food. What I love most is how versatile it is. I've been there on a weeknight just to unwind and soak in the atmosphere, and it's just as perfect on the weekends meeting up with friends. And when it comes to their events... drag bingo, drag brunch, and special occasions... they know how to create an experience that's fun, inclusive, and unforgettable. This isn't just a bar, it's a staple in Midtown. One of those places you keep coming back to, again and again. read more

Nice little bar with good specialty drinks, even sore in Tiki glasses. Mostly two and four chair tables and decent sized patio. We didn't try the food as we had just eaten. No TVs. read more

What a cool little quiet bar in midtown Reno! I had the Banh mi sliders, excellently done, great drinks also! Everyone in the party was thrilled with the drinks. Service, you need to tell them what you want, they seem content to let you be, which, was different, but pleasant. If you like ambiance, mid town, and unique fare, try them out! read more

The Emerson - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

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Do be clear I have had cocktails here before. However never knew they did food till Reno Food and Drink Week had them featured. Boy was I glad to find out. We went on sliders night and was hard making decisions. So we ordered a lot. It was all amazingly tasty. Then I found out they had a Maple Creme Brulee to finish my evening, boy what a treat. We had pretty quick service and I give extreme kudos to the kitchen, we will be back not only for the cocktails, but for the food too. read more

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Super fun outing for a drag queen brunch at the Emerson in midtown. I suspect reservations kind of a must. Fun time for all, excellent performances and a chance to sit back, relax and just be present for all the fun, most of which is hilarious. Bring your single dollar bills and you will be happy to reward the ladies! Prudes do not attend. Lots of tables booked attending to celebrate birthdays. Even though in midtown, parking did not turn out to be an issue. They really put on their best show and it does include an intermission. I recommend anything on their menu, all the food was delicious and served with a smile by super pleasant wait staff. What do businesses want to hear, 'I will be back' ! I shall! read more

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Wierd smell upon walking in this place but otherwise pretty interesting deco throughout. Especially the painting of Snow White snorting coke in the hallway. Definitely different! Service was awesome and Jake is the best bartender! Food is on point but can remember what we ate read more

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Went here for the Reno Food Week offering. Korean Chicken Sliders were very flavorful, the Japanese style sweet potato salad was good a little bit salty. My husband had the So You-zu cocktail, he isn't a gin guy, but found it refreshing. The service was really good, friendly, and personable. Vintage decor and feel, super cute. They have outdoor seats too. read more

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Savanna was a delightful bartender, serving up wonderful cocktails. Chef Sean produced delicious sliders for us. Overall, a wonderful experience. We will be back! read more

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I've been to the Emerson a long while back so this latest visit was a great chance to revisit and remind myself how much I enjoy it. I came out with my wife and her friend on a Friday night and there was a private party being hosted with a DJ, so the ambiance was extra fun. We had a couple of drinks, I tried several of the custom cocktails and they were all delicious. The bartenders were friendly and quick to serve us, and the overall atmosphere was fun with holiday decor, a movie playing on the projector, and fun dance music all night. I've never eaten here so can't comment on the food, but I look forward to trying their menu the next time I'm here when the kitchen is open. I didn't see anything about a happy hour so not sure if they have any specials, will keep my eye out next time. The Emerson is truly a classic cocktail bar with a nice ambiance and fun atmosphere. Great stop in Midtown, highly recommend stopping by when you are in the area! read more

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I came into Emerson tonight and tried their Reno food week special, which was super light and refreshing. It had yuzu and sake. My friend got the pornstar martini, which I've had before and is equally amazing. The quality is always superb and great atmosphere read more

The Emerson - Porn star martini, and specialty drink - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

The cutest bar. Friendly staff, amazing drinks, even better food! Great vibe. Best girl night or date night spot! read more

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I love this spot! It feels inclusive and fun. The space is clean and trendy. There's a small parking lot and then street parking in the area. They have lots of fun signature cocktails and then of course your standard bar fare. They host a number of events in this space including a drag bingo that is so fun! The bartenders are kind and attentive and know when to give you space to just chat with friends read more

The Emerson - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

Service was excellent and the staff were friendly. It gets busier later at night, but the drinks are always great. Good atmosphere for hanging with friends read more

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Another fun visit to the Emerson, hilariously to celebrate my wife's first broken bone... She ordered a Watermelon Margarita (her favorite), and an Appletini. The latter we said tasted like back in the day when we were degenerate children thinking Pucker was the liquor of the gods. I ended up just grabbing a couple rounds of Planteray, neat. They had the Stiggins Fancy Pineapple and the Cut and Dry. Little sad to not walk in and see Estefany behind the bar! BUT everyone here is great. Love stopping by for a couple drinks and they were even pushing "An American in Paris" through the projector. read more

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First visit to the Emerson was a fun one. Appreciated the comfortable and intimate seating options. Was nice in a busy bar setting to be able to still chat with our party comfortably. The bartenders were attentive and even delivered cocktails to our table despite it being a busy Friday evening. Such a fun vibe with the art, lighting, and inclusive fun crowd. The drinks were delicious, my favorite of the evening was the pillow talk.... The marshmallow topping paired perfectly and felt like such a fun seasonal treat. If you order the temptress, be prepared to leave your ID as collateral for returning their kitty cup! Would be fun to try this spot again for brunch! read more

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Pretty best little bar! I went there for an event and there was one waitress doing most of the leg work and she was absolutely killing it! I ordered the kale Caesar salad and it came so quickly. The salad itself was delicious. I'm a sucker for roasted chickpeas so this of course was a wonderful added touch to the salad. The owner was friendly as well and very accommodating to everyone. The place as packed and you could tell the establishment was ran very well. read more

We came in to cool off with some of the fun new watermelon margaritas after our morning 20 mile bike ride. Let me tell you they totally hit the spot, what a refreshing fun flavor, and I loved the tajin on the side, absolutely delicious! The inside is a super fun atmosphere, we ended up walking in to the end of a fun looking drag event. Everyone was so friendly and we even got information on how to attend the next Drag brunch in Sundays, I can't wait! The inside is decorated really fun and ready for their live shows. I cannot wait to come back to see some. The cool part about this place is the shady outside patio we were able to sit at and enjoy our drinks be still keep an eye on or bikes. Will most definitely be coming back to check out some shows and try some food! read more

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This is an amazing date spot or for sunny day drinks out on the patio. I have been working my way through the cocktail menu over my many visits. The blueberry bramble is always a favorite but they regularly have new specials that are always delicious. read more

Went there with my wife to check the place out and grab a meal. We were seated by the window on Virginia St. and over the next 20 minutes, no one came by our table to take our order. Wait staff stopped by tables 10' away, but never even glanced at our table. The Emerson may have great food, then again, it might not. We finally left, so this will remain one of life's great mysteries... read more

I've now gone to the Emerson twice, and I can see why it's such a huge draw. The atmosphere is welcoming while being very aesthetically pleasing, and it's a great place to congregate. We had excellent drinks, made by an expert bartender who knows their stuff. My martini with a lemon twist was *perfect* and made with a gin from Mexico that the bartender thought would work well--and they were right. All my friends were happy with their drinks, and the charcuterie board was a nice assortment that kept us going for a good long while. read more

Still love this place! I was re-reading my review from when it opened...much has changed, but still a favorite and amazing! They no longer have the bathtub drink, but the craft cocktails are delicious and sophisticated. Probably the best Espresso Martini, and The Porn Star is a must! Such a warm, relaxed vibe and wonderful service. A special place for sure. read more

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I've never had a bad drink or time here. Bartenders are great! ambiance most nights will fit anyone. (besides drag queen nights) yummy small bites that are worth the price. read more

The Emerson - Anne Benny's cure - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

Friday nights lighting and disco dance dj party, amazing crowd vibes made for an incredible night. Their holiday decor was on point as well as the healthy, thriving plants throughout the bar. They allowed a party to catering food, consistently cleared tables, and we didn't have to wait to be served when we were ready for a drink. Epic time! read more

The Emerson - Dj Robyn - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

The food was amazing. We had the garlic charcuterie board and the Korea chicken. The drinks were original and fun to try. We went on Bingo Drag race night. So much fun. The service was amazing and the venue was packed. The bathroom was cleaned and checked more than once. The chairs were comfortable and tables were clean. Such a fun experience. Highly recommended! read more

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Seems ok at first but pretty lame. Service was adequate. Atmosphere marginal. Leadership obviously sucks.

By far the best luxury cocktail bar in Reno! The variety of drinks on the menu is amazing, including the non-alcoholic cocktails. Their food menu is delicious. I highly recommend getting a caviar bump with your martini, it's so good! Staff is incredibly knowledgeable and always on point. You'll want to hang out here for HOURS by far the best boujee bar in Reno! read more

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Cocktails here were delicious! I loved the way they actually executed a correct pornstar with the side car of Prosecco, it counteracts the sweetness of the cocktail and made for a great experience. the pickle martini was also a sleeper hit, if you like pickles you'll love this. the thai me down was good too but I wish it was made without the coconut milk and used condensed milk, it just didn't have the traditional thai tea flavor and i felt as if the coconut milk really showed through. we also got the meatballs as well. the polenta was delightful and the meatballs were tender juicy and plenty flavorful. I overall really enjoyed the food and appreciated the addition of arugula on it, despite just being a little topper i felt it added a lot to the dish. ambiance in here is great, the windows and seating is super nice and i'm looking forward to returning! read more

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I'm a little biased toward The Emerson because their drinks are phenomenal! One of their OG cocktails, the "Hi Bestie," is my forever favorite. But somehow, I'd never tried their food until now. We finally stopped in for their Tuesday Grilled Cheese Night and it absolutely delivered. I ordered the Banh Mi grilled cheese, and it was bold, flavorful, and had a kick of heat that admittedly was a little much for me (though I'm more sensitive to spicy). The slaw and tri tip played so well with the melty cheese -- a total flavor bomb. We also shared the Genoa, and it was next-level good. The salty, rich salami paired with the fig jam and gooey cheese with the crisp, buttery sourdough... perfection. The atmosphere is eclectic and welcoming, with vibrant murals you'll want to snap photos of. There's a great mix of seating -- from cozy couches to big tables -- so whether you're out with friends or having a casual date night, you'll find your spot. Even with it being busy the service is always amazing and we got our drinks and food quick! Already planning our return for more grilled cheese and definitely saving room for dessert next time! read more

The Emerson - Banh Mi grilled cheese night - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

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We came here for a galentines outing. Drinks were very pretty and cute - lots of options cold and hot drinks, we ordered some food too I'm glad they have more food options now. You have to order everything at the bar and they bring it to your table. Unfortunately we ran into a special event for drag bingo and it was super loud and we had to yell to hear each other, I don't remember it being that loud in the past - but I think it's because it was packed! My favorite part was doing caviar bumps $5 a bump read more

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The Emerson is my favorite bar in Reno. It's so nice to have a true queer space to enjoy the company of friends, go on dates, or have a wild night at one of their events! They have an incredible variety of drinks to satisfy any palate, and their continued expansion of the food menu has seriously impressed me. They are always hosting fun and free events, and their continued expansion bartenders are excellent and friendly. Will always be coming here and I can't wait for the owners to expand! read more

Such a refreshing oasis for the queer community! I was here on Pride and they were ready for the thirsty masses opening earlier than normally. I had the most wonderful experience of Savanna being my bartender! I absentmindedly spilled two of my three drinks trying to move them to my table and Savanna was gracious and prompt replacing them even tho I said I have no problem paying for them. That's the type of service that develops regulars and strengthens relationships with a clientele. Bravo The Emerson and Savanna! read more

Went for Derby Day. Wonderful service, great atmosphere, superior employees, recommend this establishment to one and all.

LOVE THIS PLACE and for so many reasons. Prior to today, I've been here a few times for casual drinks with friends and it's always had a cute ambiance, nice decor, and a great selection of beautiful and delicious drinks. Today we went to their Drag Brunch and it was such a blast! The mimosas were wonderful and came with a few juice options (grapefruit, orange, pineapple). Their food menu consisted of things like charcuterie boards and other shareable bites. We got the classic charcuterie board - normal, typical board that you'd expect. The only thing I might add to it would be a small thing of local honey or honey glazed almonds/nuts. We also ordered Korean wings which was delicious and seasoned well (a little more on the sweet side rather than spicy or savory) and a Margherita flatbread (good sharing size for 2-3 people). The drag show was energetic and fun and I love that it's such a welcoming place. 10/10 would recommend and plan to come back especially for a drag brunch! The only thing that lagged a bit was the service. One of the servers was wonderful (he was a younger gentleman, forgot his name - sorry!) but he kept checking on us and was very friendly and helpful. The other person who I think was supposed to be our server wasn't as friendly or helpful (she kept forgetting things from our order, which I understand it was busy but after multiple times of politely asking and seeing her gladly tend to other tables - it was a bit of a bummer). Also, with the seating arrangement, someone had actually moved our name card to a further seat even though we were assigned a spot and the server who wasn't as friendly didn't seem to be very helpful when we were explaining to her the situation. Overall though, we still really love the place and we know everyone was trying their best and we appreciate that but most of all we appreciate the welcoming feel of this lovely establishment. read more

The Emerson - Charcuterie and mimosas - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

If you haven't been here, you need to set your calendar to happy hour. The decor, the drinks, the vibe! It's all there PLUS they have small bites and tapas. Tuesday is grilled cheese night and I'm a sucker for a good cheese pull. Just go already! Also, the drinks are superb. No detail or garnish is left unattended. Check them out on socials for some great special events like drag brunch! read more

The Emerson - Strawberry Fields cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

Such a fun lounge for drinks! We came in during the holidays after dinner, and sat in the corner and perused the menu. They have different seasonal cocktails, and the bartender was super sweet! The music was just the right level, where you could actually talk, and you could tell that everyone in there was enjoying themselves. Can't wait to come back! read more

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We arrived in a group of six people, and we are all paying for drinks separately. One of my friends thought his total was kind of high for what he purchased, so he went and asked for a receipt. Once he got it, he noticed he was charged a "Large Party Fee" 20% gratuity. Since when do Reno bars include a 20% gratuity in the bill? $16 per cocktail before the tip was included... If the bartender was upfront about the included gratuity, maybe my friend could've saved a few dollars and wouldn't have tipped the extra that he did. Overall I thought the experience was kind of shady. He was the only one that got this "Large Party Fee" gratuity on his bill and we were all buying drinks. It wasn't even consistent. I understand some high end cocktail joints are known to include gratuities like this... but: 1. I wouldn't consider our party "large". 2. The fee was inconsistent across the group. 3. They weren't upfront about the gratuity and accepted our tips (under the impression that we didn't already tip). 4. I've never actually been charged an included gratuity at a "high end cocktail bar" in Reno. Traditionally, a "Large Party Fee" is only ever charged if one of us in the group of six people were paying ,and we only had one tab, right? Instead, we had multiple tabs open and each of us were tipping individually. That's not how large party gratuities work. You don't pay a large party gratuity and then each of you are also tipping individually. I understand that when we first came in the bartender might've thought we were all going to be on one bill, and created a bill with this gratuity. However, in the end the fact that they didn't remove it was careless and/or greedy. Anyway, it's Reno tipping culture out of control as usual. If you meet up with friends here, pretend like you don't know them. Unfortunately we won't return, even though the drinks were good and the vibe of the bar was pretty nice. read more

The Emerson - Unnecessary large party 20% tip - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

We love the EMERSON! We've been here twice for Drag Brunch and have the best time. They have the most fun cocktails. What's awesome is they have a working kitchen now with delicious food. We split the traditional charcuterie board and then got three flatbreads. I would highly recommend Drag Brunch but they have a bunch of other events too. The atmosphere is so accepting and wonderful. You gotta make a stop here ! read more

I went to the Emerson last weekend for my first drag brunch. This place has such a fun vibe. I was super excited for the event . First and foremost, the performers were wonderful absolutely fantastic drag performances all around. Next, let's talk about the brunch. The drinks were delicious, although I think the bubbles and mimosas are a little overpriced for what you get. The brunch was nonexistent though. When something is advertised as brunch I expect some breakfast choices. The food offered on the menu is much more in the lunch/snack category. We had the latkes and they were very good. The meatballs were just OK. I was really looking forward having brunch food so that part was a bummer. read more

The Emerson - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Reno, Nevada

We stopped in to The Emerson to have a post-lunch cocktail. It was pretty quiet since it was midday so it was nice to be able to sit and chat. I've been here at night when the place is rocking and pretty loud, but the chill vibe was exactly what we wanted this time. Speaking of vibes, the decor is kind of an eclectic retro style, which is somehow both kitschy and elegant at the same time. The bartender was an absolute sweetheart, and I wish I could remember her name to give her a shout out. But let's talk about the real reason we were there: the cocktails! They have an extensive menu of craft cocktails with every spirit you could want. The wall of liquor bottles is a sight to behold! I've never ordered anything there that I didn't absolutely love. They do have small plates from 5-9 Wednesday through Saturday and grilled cheese night on Tuesday if you are wanting something to munch on. With its great Midtown location you can't ask for a better place to go when you want to enjoy a nice fresh cocktail. read more

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Came midweek semi-early for book club with a group of girlfriends--everyone loved the drinks and fun names, all very tasty. We had some flatbreads, meatballs, polenta, and the kale salad at the table and everything was yummy, although I personally am not a fan of larger garlic chunks in the meatballs. You do have to order at the bar -- no big deal but just know there's not table service. Got a little loud near the end of the meeting, but to be expected! They apparently have grilled cheese night on Tuesday so I'm going to have to come back for that! read more