A Magical Evening at the Ember Lounge: A Review

When our youngest daughter suggested an evening out at Ember Lounge—a whimsical pop-up nestled inside a dome at Desert Ridge Marketplace—we didn’t quite know what we were signing up for. But if there's anything we've learned from our adventures, it's that surprises often lead to the most magical memories.

Stepping into Another World

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere captivated us. A dome tent with a single, inviting entry felt like a portal to another world. Inside, we discovered a cozy woodland retreat—soft lighting, faux foliage, and thoughtful details that perfectly enhanced the enchanting vibe. Seating arrangements ranged from cushioned benches and plush chairs draped with soft blankets to quirky tree stumps. Fair warning: If you’ve ever dreamed of dining on a log, you're in luck—just maybe bring a cushion or borrow one from the plush options nearby.

Above us, mesmerizing projections transformed the dome ceiling into a serene landscape, cycling through scenes of forests, deserts, and wildlife. It added a dreamy, otherworldly element to the evening.

Sips of Whimsy: The Drinks

Ember Lounge truly shines in its creative cocktails. Our $35 entry fee included a complimentary pumpkin spice shot and an appetizer bite of salmon on cucumber with cheese. None of us are big salmon fans, but this little bite surprised us—it was absolutely delicious!

We ordered the Candy Cane Martini, a strawberry cocktail served in a whimsical mushroom-shaped glass, and a Pumpkin Old Fashioned presented in a glass pumpkin. These drinks aren’t messing around—strong, playful, and memorable. They certainly put extra "magic" into our magical evening.

A Taste of Enchantment: The Food

Now, let’s talk food! Our adventure started with the Open Fire Meatball Skillet, featuring sage rosemary gravy and beer-seared meatballs served in a rustic cast-iron skillet—perfectly matching the cozy ambiance. The Cauliflower Edamame Roast, with fire-roasted cauliflower, blistered shishito peppers, edamame cream, chimichurri, raisins, and pepitas, added delightful depth and variety.

For the main course, the Mountain Steak Feast arrived dramatically on a wooden board, featuring a 10 oz sous vide ribeye steak, hearty bean stew, asparagus, and even a rustic knife in its own pouch. The presentation alone made the dish memorable and deliciously fitting to the woodsy theme.

We couldn’t resist ordering the Fall Harvest Bread Boule after seeing it wow other tables. This showstopper featured Capistrano’s bread bowl overflowing with aged cheddar fondue, cranberry orange bacon relish, toasted almonds, pickled fennel, apples, fresh sage, and rose-shaped prosciutto florets. Almost too beautiful to eat—almost.

Unexpected Comforts (and Discomforts)

While the quirky seating arrangement perfectly fit the theme, the occasional uncomfortable stump seat provided a humorous reminder of the adventurous spirit needed for the evening. Thankfully, the delicious food, creative drinks, and enchanting atmosphere more than compensated.

Service with a Smile

Service throughout the evening was exceptional. Staff were genuinely friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the experience, adding an extra touch of warmth and fun. Check-in was smooth and well-organized despite the unique setup of the dome.

Quick Tips for Visiting Ember Lounge:

• Reserve ahead; seating is limited.

• Expect strong, creative cocktails.

• Choose comfortable seating—stumps look great but aren't very forgiving!

• Plan about 1.5–2 hours to fully enjoy the experience.

• Ideal for adults or older children who appreciate gourmet dishes and creative drinks.

Final Thoughts: Is Ember Lounge Worth It?

All in all, our night at Ember Lounge was nothing short of magical. Between the immersive woodland ambiance, delicious gourmet dishes, and cocktails that pack a playful punch, it’s a must-visit if you're seeking a unique dining experience at Desert Ridge Marketplace. Just be prepared for occasional stump seat antics—but hey, a little discomfort makes for great storytelling! Reserve your spot, grab a cozy seat, and let the enchantment begin.