Look forward to:
Open Hotel Days 2026.
Hamburg, 12th February 2026
From 6th to 8th February 2026, we had the privilege of being part of a very special event: Open Hotel Days 2026 brought the diversity of Hamburg's hotel industry to life and we at the Empire Riverside Hotel were proud to open our doors alongside 46 other hotels. Special thanks also go to Hamburg Tourism, who initiated the event.
For three days, we showcased what makes our hotel special: a passion for hospitality, culinary creativity, technical precision and, above all, the people who make it all possible.
It quickly became clear to us that we didn't just want to provide insights, we wanted to create real experiences. That's why we put together a diverse workshop programme that reflects our culinary signature.
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Skyline Sips – Mixing with a view
High above Hamburg, drinks were mixed, stirred and sampled. Our bartenders provided insights into signature drinks and modern cocktail creations – including views of the harbour and the River Elbe. For us, Skyline Bar 20up is not just a bar, but an experience.
To the Skyline Bar 20up
Shake, Taste & Take – Dressing Workshop
Sometimes it's the subtle nuances that make all the difference. In our dressing workshop, which took place in our large banquet kitchen, we shared our philosophy: balance, quality and the courage to try new combinations. At the same time, participants had the special opportunity to get to know an area that otherwise remains hidden from our guests. Just like in the pasta and patisserie course, it wasn't just about cooking and tasting, but also about getting an authentic glimpse behind the scenes of our everyday culinary life at the Empire Riverside Hotel.
Sweet craftsmanship – experience pâtisserie live
Our pâtisserie was a hub of creativity and attention to detail, with a focus on delicate crêpes, aromatic egg liqueur and artisanal precision. Our pâtissiers provided insights into techniques, tricks and the importance of precision work – because for us, pâtisserie is not just dessert, but true craftsmanship. If you would like to enjoy our sweet creations, you can also do so in our restaurant waterkant, where selected desserts are regularly featured on our menu.
To the restaurant waterkant
Pasta Lab – Homemade & Delicious
Together with our kitchen team, we got to work on the pasta machine. We showed how simple ingredients can be turned into moments of pure enjoyment – fresh, authentic and with great attention to detail.
Anyone who wants to experience the flavours of Hamburg for themselves after so much culinary inspiration is warmly invited to visit the waterkant restaurant. Enjoy creative dishes with a view of the Elbe and let our culinary artistry spoil you.
Neighbourhood & Corks – Wine Tasting
Another highlight was our wine tasting, held in collaboration with Kiez & Korken. Guests had the opportunity to sample exclusive wines while learning about their flavours, origins, and ideal food pairings. This experience showcased the passion and expertise behind every glass and offered visitors a unique tasting journey that went far beyond the usual hotel offerings.
Behind the scenes im Empire Riverside Hotel
A particular highlight of the Open Hotel Days were our technical tours. We deliberately opened up areas that are otherwise hidden from view, including our sustainable building technology, fire protection system, boiler room, power supply and ventilation system. This allowed visitors to experience first-hand how many cogs mesh perfectly in the background to ensure that our guests feel completely at home. For us at the Empire Riverside Hotel, this transparency is an important part of modern hospitality.
Our conclusion
„The Open Hotel Days 2026 at the Empire Riverside Hotel were a complete success for us. Inspiring conversations, curious visitors, fully booked workshops and many new encounters made these days something very special.
We would like to thank everyone who attended and we are already looking forward to the next time.”
Head of Marketing, Constanze DöbberYou might also be interested in
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