The Empire Garden restaurant in Boston was once the Globe Theatre, a movie theater built in 1903. Architect Arthur Vinal designed it in the French Renaissance style, and it was a popular spot in Boston for many years.

M. Loew’s took over and renamed it the Loew’s Center Theatre in 1947. It has the distinction of being run by both Loew’s Incorporated and the E.M. Loew’s circuits. Over the years, the Loew’s Center Theatre played a variety of films, stage productions, and other events. A popular destination for both locals and tourists, it became a beloved cultural landmark in the city of Boston.

In the late 1960s, the neighborhood was nicknamed “The Combat Zone.” In 1974, the Boston Redevelopment Authority officially designated the area as a red-light district.The Center started showing soft-core pornography and blaxploitation films.

In the late 1980s, the theater renamed itself to the Pagoda and switched formats to show Hong Kong action films. However, it struggled financially and closed in 1995. Later converted into the Empire Garden restaurant, it has been in operation at the same location ever since.

The menu features a wide variety of banquet-style Chinese dishes, alongside a selection of classic dim sum served from carts that weave through the cavernous space. Diners select their favorites in an interactive and visually engaging manner.

The outside of the building is still the same, but the inside has been changed to make room for the restaurant. The ground floor has been completely gutted to make way for retail space, but the balcony survives and is now the dining room for the restaurant. 

Today, theEmpire Garden restaurant continues to be a popular destination in Boston, offering a unique blend of history and cuisine. Its location in the formerLoew’s Center Theatre adds to its charm, making it a memorable dining experience.

History of the Empire Garden restaurant building:

• In 1903: Architect Arthur Vinal designs the Globe Theatre in the French Renaissance style.
• 1947: Taken over by E.M. Loew’s and renamed the Loew’s Center Theatre.
• Late 1960s: Neighborhood becomes known as “The Combat Zone.”
• 1974: The theatre starts showing soft-core pornography and blaxploitation films.
• Late 1980s: Renamed to the Pagoda, the theatre switches formats to show Hong Kong action films.
• 1995: Closes due to financial struggles.
• Post-1995: Converted into the Empire Garden restaurant.

The Globe Theatre becoming Empire Garden shows how Boston’s urban landscape changed. It’s a story of reinvention and resilience. The Empire Garden is not just a place where people come to dine; it’s a living museum, echoing the memories of its cinematic past while serving as a testament to the city’s capacity for change.

Amidst the modern culinary scene, the restaurant stands out for integrating Boston’s rich history with contemporary dining experiences. It’s a space where the past and present converge, offering guests not only a taste of authentic Asian cuisine but also a glimpse into the evolving narrative of one of Boston’s most storied neighborhoods.

The Empire Garden’s ability to adapt and thrive reflects the dynamic spirit of Boston itself, making it a cherished landmark for both residents and visitors alike.

Check out my other Boston historical posts.