Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with Brent Glashan, the general manager of the new Omni Viking Lakes Hotel in Eagan. The hotel is located in the new Viking Lakes complex, within walking distance of the iconic Vikings training center, which can’t be missed when traveling on 494.
Our chat largely focused on Ember & Ice, which offers an unrivaled dining experience that takes guests beyond the traditional sports bar. Opened in 2020 amid the pandemic, this upscale lounge has survived and thrived, becoming a beloved hotspot for locals and visitors.
Brent, and Ayman, the food and beverage director, have been instrumental in crafting a unique environment where delicious and elevated food and a beautiful high-end atmosphere simply coexist.
An Upscale Feel With an Energetic Vibe
Walking into Ember & Ice, you're immediately struck by its upscale feel. The space combines a sports bar's energetic vibe with a lounge's sophistication. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, each visit will create a unique but consistent and elevated experience that will want you to return again and again.
Plush couches and deep seating invite you to settle in and relax, whether catching a game or enjoying a night out. The menu, curated with a creative touch by Ayman, perfectly reflects this duality. Brent shares, “You can indulge in classic bar fare like wings and burgers or more refined dishes such as fire-roasted salmon and short ribs.”
One of Ember & Ice's best features is its commitment to offering an elevated dining experience. Even the bar food here is something special. Take, for instance, the Skol Tower, a shareable delight that includes Minnesota-based charcuterie, walleye fritters, and a lobster roll. This focus on shareable plates prioritizes a dining experience that is about more than the food—it creates an experience that encourages sharing, great conversation, and lots of happy laughter.
For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert menu will not disappoint. You can savor everything from classic ice cream to the sophisticated crepe suzette. Brent says, “There's something for everyone, no matter your preference.”
And if you're looking for healthier or vegetarian options, Ember & Ice has thought of that, too. Dishes like the cauliflower shawarma, which can be cooked with chicken or lamb, and the spicy kung pao noodle bowl offer delicious alternatives that don’t compromise flavor. I snuck a quick peak at the menu myself—can it get any better than Wisconsin cheeses and exotic fruits? Yes, please!
Take it to the Patio
The ambiance doesn’t stop there. Ember & Ice offers a lavish, wonderful patio area with fire pits and soft seating. It's the perfect spot for a casual evening with friends or a romantic date night. Brent's favorite way to enjoy the patio? A cold beer and peel-and-eat shrimp, though he admits the short ribs are a must-try.
Brent and his team have also recently rolled out a new menu, continuing to innovate and delight their patrons. With options catering to various dietary preferences and moods, Ember & Ice makes every visit feel fresh and exciting.
It's no wonder that it's also a fantastic date spot. Imagine sitting around the outdoor fire pit, sipping cocktails before heading downstairs to Kyndred Hearth for a more formal dining experience. I plan to do this in the future!
Minnesota Vikings Fans Unite
The connection to the Minnesota Vikings adds an extra layer of allure to Ember & Ice. The Omni Hotel at Viking Lakes is majority-owned by the Wilf family, who also own the Vikings. This relationship infuses the venue with a sense of community and local pride. The hotel and lounge together create an experience that guests will remember long after their visit.
Moreover, the setting itself is something to behold. The resident eagles soaring around the hotel add a touch of natural beauty to the sophisticated surroundings, making your visit to Ember & Ice even more memorable.
More Than a Place to Watch a Game or Grab a Drink
Ember & Ice is not just a place to watch the game or grab a drink. It's a destination where you can experience the best of both worlds—a sports bar's buzzing energy and a lounge's luxurious comfort.
Whether you're here for the elevated food, the inviting atmosphere, or simply enjoying a cold beer on the patio, Ember & Ice promises an experience you won't soon forget.
Visit Ember & Ice at the Omni Hotel in Eagan and discover a new favorite spot where you can experience luxury in a comfortable setting. Visit the website at: https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/viking-lakes-minnesota/dining/ember-and-ice
Ember & Ice combines the energetic vibe of a sports bar with the sophistication of a lounge.
We have options that cater to any dietary preference or mood. Our goal at Ember & Ice is to keep every visit fresh and exciting.