There’s something special about a fall evening in Red Wing, Minnesota. The Mississippi River, historic downtown streets and crisp autumn air set the scene for a getaway that invites you to slow down, enjoy a great meal and stay awhile.
At the historic St. James Hotel, dining can be more than a dinner reservation. From seasonal dishes and river views at Scarlet Kitchen & Bar to the intimate, speakeasy-inspired atmosphere of The Port, you can enjoy two distinct dining experiences without ever leaving the hotel.
Whether you’re planning a weekend away with your favorite person, a night out with friends or a spontaneous autumn escape, here’s how to make the most of a dining getaway in Red Wing.
Located inside the historic St. James Hotel, Scarlet Kitchen & Bar brings together seasonal flavors, thoughtful hospitality and a welcoming atmosphere in downtown Red Wing.
The menu features chef-driven dishes inspired by regional ingredients and a variety of culinary influences. Pair your meal with a handcrafted cocktail, explore the mocktail selection or save room for a homemade dessert.
With its inviting dining room and Mississippi River views, Scarlet is a wonderful place to settle in for a leisurely dinner. It’s equally suited for a date night, a gathering with friends or the start of a memorable evening away.
Visiting earlier in the day? Scarlet also serves brunch, making it an easy addition to a full day of exploring Red Wing.
Make it part of your getaway: Explore the Scarlet Kitchen & Bar menu and dining information.
Discover Cocktails and Conversation at The Port
When dinner winds down, keep the evening going downstairs at The Port.
Tucked away on Level B of the St. James Hotel, The Port offers a different atmosphere from the hotel’s main restaurant. Its distinctive setting, antique bar dating to the 1860s and prohibition-inspired cocktails create a cozy backdrop for an evening out.
Gather around a cocktail, share a few plates from the dinner menu and enjoy a slower pace. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply catching up with friends, The Port offers a memorable way to experience another side of the hotel.
It’s also an ideal stop for guests who enjoy discovering a cocktail lounge with a little history behind it.
Plan your visit: View The Port’s menu, hours and reservation information. The Port is open Wednesday through Saturday, with cocktail service extending later on select evenings.
Turn Dinner Into an Overnight Getaway
Why rush home after a great evening out?
One of the best parts of dining at the St. James Hotel is having a comfortable place to retreat to when the evening comes to an end. Instead of arranging a ride home or watching the clock, book a room and make a night of it.
Since opening in 1875, the St. James Hotel has welcomed guests to the heart of downtown Red Wing. Today, its 68 distinctive guestrooms combine historic character with modern comforts, and no two rooms are exactly alike.
Spend the evening enjoying dinner and cocktails, then return to your room for a relaxing night. The next morning, take your time with breakfast at Scarlet before heading out to explore more of the city.
For an added touch, explore the hotel’s overnight packages, including options that pair accommodations with dining experiences.
Make it an overnight stay: Browse guestrooms and accommodations or discover the Victorian Getaway package.
Make a Day of Exploring Red Wing
A dining getaway doesn’t have to begin at dinner. Make the most of your time in Red Wing by exploring the city before checking in or heading out for the evening.
Spend the afternoon browsing downtown shops, discovering local art and architecture or taking in the Mississippi River scenery. If the weather cooperates, enjoy a walk near the river or explore the area’s scenic bluffs.
Red Wing’s blend of small-town charm, outdoor recreation and historic character makes it an appealing destination for a fall day trip or weekend away from the Twin Cities.
After a day of exploring, return to the St. James Hotel to freshen up before dinner. With two distinct dining destinations under one roof, it’s easy to transition from an afternoon of sightseeing to a relaxed evening without needing to drive elsewhere for your next stop.
Plan Your Fall Dining Getaway in Red Wing, Minnesota
Autumn is a wonderful excuse to explore somewhere new, reconnect with your favorite people and enjoy the simple pleasure of a good meal.
At the St. James Hotel, Scarlet Kitchen & Bar and The Port offer two distinct ways to experience dining in downtown Red Wing, each with its own atmosphere and character. Add an overnight stay, and an ordinary dinner reservation becomes an opportunity to slow down and enjoy a little more time away.
Whether you’re visiting for the food, the cocktails, the historic surroundings or all three, your next getaway may be closer than you think.
Ready to plan your visit?
- Explore accommodations at the St. James Hotel
- Reserve a table at Scarlet Kitchen & Bar
- Discover The Port
We look forward to welcoming you to Red Wing.