Vestar, a leading privately held shopping center owner and manager in the western U.S., recently announced the comeback of Ember Lounge for an ultimate holiday experience — all held inside the striking 50-foot District Dome at Desert Ridge Marketplace.

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Within the enchanting dome, guests can enjoy a festive evening under the stars, complete with a cozy dining atmosphere, whimsical craft cocktails, a chef-driven menu and a state-of-the-art projection show. 

Ember Lounge introduces “Dome After Dark”

Following the success of last year’s launch, Ember Lounge will return with exciting new offerings, including updated menus, a revamped projection show — and most notably — the highly anticipated debut of Dome After Dark.

This exclusive late-night experience hosted on Friday and Saturday nights, invites patrons to enjoy Ember Lounge’s signature cocktails in addition to a full bar service, while talented musicians, Ellery, co-founder of a DJ collective, and Joseph Torres, founder of Feel Good Jawns, set the mood for an unforgettable evening. Surprise guests will perform during opening weekend and on select holidays throughout the season.

“Following the success of Ember Lounge last year, we are excited to bring back another District Dome experience this holiday season,” said Jenny Cushing, vice president of leasing for Vestar. “Last year’s Ember Lounge sold out for the entire season, and due to demand, we’ve extended the runtime, opening earlier in November and continuing through mid-January.”

November 8 kick-off

Officially opening to the public on Friday, November 8th, and running through Sunday, January 12th, Ember Lounge invites guests to step into a winter wonderland filled with evergreen foliage and festive decor, where they can enjoy a memorable dining experience beneath the District Dome’s signature state-of-the-art projection show. 

Upon arrival, groups are seated in cozy European-style nooks, where they can indulge in a chef-driven menu of savory shareable dishes and whimsical-themed cocktails, thoughtfully crafted by Copper Blues Live.

Signature menu specials and spirits 

Signature dishes include the Fall Harvest Bread Boule, Golden Season Bruschetta Board, Open Fire Meatball Skillet, Cauliflower Edamame Roast, Flame-Seared Wild Shrimp, Mountain Steak Feast and Smoked Campfire S’mores — each curated to capture the enchanting spirit of Ember Lounge.

Guests can also enjoy a selection of signature cocktails, such as The Ice Hotel, which blends wild berry vodka, lingonberry, vanilla and cardamom, served with shaved ice and snowflakes. The Douglas Fir combines pinecone gin, Earl Grey, cucumber, lemon and rosemary, served in a watering can vessel.

The Northern Light mixes Starburst-infused tequila, pear, ginger, lime, and is garnished with galaxy glitter. The extensive bar menu also features house shots, a candy cane eggnog, and a wide selection of top-shelf beer, wine, and spirits.

Four adventures from which to choose

Ember Lounge welcomes all party sizes, allowing guests to choose from four themed dining areas: The Highland, Grove, Wildwood, or Monarch upon booking. Both Ember Lounge and Dome After Dark will require a cover charge for entry, tickets range from $10- $20 per person for Dome After Dark and $30 per person for Ember Lounge, with food and drinks available for purchase upon arrival.

Ember Lounge details

Ember Lounge will operate Wednesday through Sunday, with Dome After Dark starting at 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings. Hours of operation and tickets can be purchased at districtdome.com.

Ember Lounge is part of Desert Ridge Marketplace’s Sip & Stroll program, which allows customers 21 and older to enjoy alcoholic beverages from participating bars and restaurants while exploring the property. All guests must be 21 and over, with IDs checked upon entry.

This limited-time experience runs from November 8th through January 12th and is also available for corporate buyouts, events, parties, and large group dining. For sponsorship and corporate rates, contact crichards@vestar.com.

The Ember Lounge is located near Barnes & Noble and Copper Blues at Desert Ridge Marketplace, 21001 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix. For more information, visit districtdome.com.