About Our
History
Since 1916
Performances from over 100 years ago
Empire Dine And Dance has been located at 575 Congress Street for over 100 years. Yes there have been some breaks here and there however we have an amazing history
107 Years Later
We are back and ready
Portland has always been a place for entertainment and has always been where Mainer go to see amazing local talented people. We are going to continue that with a hyper force on local creators, producers and many more!
Timeline
1916
The Empire Restaurant
The Empire’s menu offered select dishes from the country’s best American and Chinese restaurants. Lunch was served Monday through Saturday and a special Sunday Table d’Hote lunch until 3:00 p.m. Evening meals were offered a la carte until midnight.
1931
Eddie W. Park becomes owner
Eddie Park was the sole manager from 1921 to 1930 and by 1931 appears to have purchased The Empire, since he was listed in the City Directory as the proprietor from that date until 1953 when it closed its doors.
1953
The Empire Closes
2007
Empire dine and dance reopens
Bill Umbel reopens 575 Congress Street as Empire Dine and Dance and hosts live events almost nightly
2013
Empire becomes Chinese again!
Theresa Chan pruchases Empire Dine and Dance from Bill Umbel and begins serving her fathers tasty Cantonese cuisine
2019
Empire Comedy Club
With the rise in comedy Empire rebrands as a comedy club
Today
Empire Live
We are exited to introduce you to Empire Live!