Named after the infamous Chinese Empress Dowager, this hotel bar and lounge offers Asian themed decor and a number of signature drinks, ranging from cocktails to sakes to tea. The menu also boasts a variety of upscale items, albeit at upscale prices. The soft shell crab mini burger, for example, is a gourmet treat, but will run you a whopping $18. More reasonable and popular is Empress's curry lunch buffet, offered weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for $16. There is also an afternoon tea buffet with pastries, appetizers and 30 different drink choices. Come back at night for more a more upbeat atmoshphere, with a live Latin band and dancing every Thursday, as well as local jazz artists Friday and Saturday nights.

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