Empire Event Center

Empire Event Center is a catering and event venue in Rochester, Minnesota, specializing in weddings, corporate gatherings, private parties, and special events. Located at 1517 16th St SW, the center offers full-service catering with a diverse menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, including buffet selections, day packages, beverages, and custom meal planning. Their event spaces include the Royale and Grand Ballrooms, designed to accommodate receptions and meetings with professional-grade audiovisual equipment and flexible layouts. Serving clients across Rochester and surrounding areas, Empire Event Center maintains a strong reputation with a 4.60 rating based on client feedback, reflecting consistent excellence in service, cuisine, and event execution.

The center operates as a fully integrated event space, conveniently attached to the Best Western Rochester, allowing seamless access for guests and event planners. Their approach emphasizes personalized service, with a dedicated team that supports events ranging from intimate meetings to large-scale weddings and hybrid gatherings. Clients consistently praise the professionalism of their sales manager, Danielle, and the quality of the food, with testimonials highlighting flexibility during challenging times such as the pandemic. The venue provides a modern, adaptable environment equipped for both in-person and virtual components, ensuring events run smoothly and meet client visions.

Situated on 16th Street Southwest, Empire Event Center lies just a short distance from key local landmarks. It is about 0.2 miles from Olmsted Medical Center - Greenview and the Driftless Art Academy, and approximately 0.3 miles from Salem Road Southwest and the South Fork Zumbro River, placing it within easy reach of medical, cultural, and natural features. The location offers convenient access from major roads while maintaining a quiet, dedicated event setting.

Empire Event Center is recognized for its reliability, strong client relationships, and consistent delivery of high-quality service. With a well-documented online presence and a reputation for excellence in event planning and catering, the center stands among the most trusted venues in Rochester. Their ability to adapt to evolving needs, combined with a proven track record, makes them a preferred choice for both community organizations and private clients.

As a cornerstone of Rochester’s event scene, Empire Event Center blends modern amenities with personalized care, making it the go-to destination for celebrations and gatherings across the region.