February 2023 - 15 years of Empire

In February 2023, we celebrated the 15th anniversary of the Empire Riverside Hotel with great joy and pride. A significant milestone that underlines the success story and commitment of our team. In these 15 years, we have not only welcomed guests from all over the world, but also created countless special moments and experiences.

The anniversary is not only an occasion to look back, but above all to look forward. We are proud of what we have achieved, but even more motivated to shape the future with innovative ideas and a first-class guest experience. The trust of our guests and the support of our employees have made us what we are today - Your feel-good place in the centre of St. Pauli.

Young talents, big ambitions ...

In February 2023, we were delighted to welcome five new, highly motivated apprentices to our team. These fresh faces aspire to experience the hospitality industry in all its facets and to shape it with enthusiasm. The decision of many young people to join us on this exciting journey to develop personally and professionally fills us with great pride. It gives us great pleasure to provide you with supportive impulses on your path and to give you an impetus for your professional development.

Kitchen Party ...

On 15 April 2023, Hamburg St. Pauli became the setting for an unforgettable event - "It's Showtime"! Together with our guests, we immersed ourselves in a fascinating party that provided exclusive insights behind the scenes of our kitchen. The culinary masterpieces of our talented chefs and guest chefs were enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere with a glass of wine, beer or refreshing drinks from the bar. From savoury meat and delicate fish to vegetarian, vegan and sweet delicacies - there was something for every palate. The first-class beats of DJ Kai Schwarz accompanied the guests and set the perfect musical note for an unforgettable evening.

Our proud path of sustainability ...

Immerse yourself in our sustainable journey! We are shaping a greener future through active action and constant small improvements. Looking back on 2023, we are proud to have already achieved the coveted GreenSign Level 4 sustainability seal in 2022. We are also looking forward to moving step by step in the right direction by introducing regular "veggie days" in the staff restaurants and defining clear targets for 2024. Join us as we report transparently on milestones achieved, current challenges and innovative ideas - on oursustainability blog and throughout the company!

Skyline Beats by 20up – Boat Edition ...

A year full of highlights lies behind us and the "Skyline Beats by 20up - Boat Edition" was definitely one of them. In summer, our Skyline Bar 20up hosted a party outside our hallowed halls at a height of 90 metres for the first time - we chartered a boat and our guests were able to sail along the Elbe, party and dance to the hottest hits by DJ Kai Schwarz. Together we enjoyed the magical atmosphere under colourful lights and let the fresh breeze on the water pamper us. The unique combination of water, music and the breathtaking harbour backdrop created unforgettable moments.

A breath of fresh air and promising talent at our hotel ...

In August last year, we felt a refreshing wind of new beginnings - not only for our team, but also for our sister hotel. We enthusiastically announced the start of a new group of trainees! The first day in August 2023 marked the start of the journey for one talented chef and two restaurant and event catering specialists at Hotel Hafen Hamburg. At the same time, the Empire Riverside Hotel brought on board two promising chefs and a bright professional in hotel management. The excitement reached its peak the following September when we welcomed our first apprentice to the newly launched Digitalisation Management Assistant training programme.

Modern black elegance ...

Last year, a bold change was made to the lobby of the Empire Riverside Hotel - bright white became modern and cosy: black.

This brave decision gave the hotel a contemporary and modern atmosphere and gives it an elegant touch. The new colour also provides a contrasting accent to the other elements in the room. It also emphasises the architectural details and sets special accents in the interior. The change reflects our willingness to keep up with the latest design trends and offer you, our guests, a modern and appealing ambience.

A community bond and charity ...

This year, we enjoyed coffee and biscuits in a warm atmosphere together with the Hotel Hafen Hamburg and the ReBBZ Altona school. The ReBBZ Altona school was supported by the proceeds of a raffle at our summer party, which was organised with great commitment by our apprentices. The heart-warming visit to the pupils emphasised the importance of our help. We were impressed by the children's creative work and learnt how the school supports individual needs in the musical, physical and mental areas. The proceeds from the tombola thus went to a charitable cause.

Apprentice trip to Brussels ...

In October, our apprentices explored the political centre of Europe, Brussels. The apprentice trip not only offered historical insights and visits to sights such as the Atomium and the European Parliament, but also strengthened team spirit. The direct contact with European history and politics was intended to promote personal development and the shared experiences had a lasting and hopeful impact on our apprentices' professional journey.

New Year's Eve 2023 ...

On New Year's Eve, we transformed the legendary Ballroom at the Empire Riverside Hotel into a magical venue for the LIQUID Party 2023. Our guests embarked on a culinary journey around the world, framed by an exquisite 5-course menu, rousing beats from the DJ and an enchanting show with dancers, a laser show and a talented singer.

For those who wanted to experience the turn of the year in a different way, the waterkant restaurant presented an exquisite 5-course menu. Later, they were able to enter the Skyline Bar 20up and round off the evening in a stylish atmosphere.

The spectacular finale of the year 2023 took place in the Skyline Bar 20up at a height of 90 metres, with a breathtaking view of the Hamburg harbour. Our guests enjoyed a fascinating fireworks display with selected cocktails and long drinks.

Our guests also enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere in the DAVID'S Bar & Fireplace Lounge, accompanied by delicious sushi, DJ beats and a refreshing aperitif. A harmonious conclusion to an unforgettable turn of the year.

We conclude this review with a grateful look back at the past year and look forward to a new year at the Empire Riverside Hotel. May it also be characterised by success, innovation and unforgettable moments. We look forward to continuing this journey with you and writing new chapters together. Here's to a successful and inspiring new year!