Guest Policies & Frequently Asked Questions
Minimum Purchase Policy
Is there a minimum purchase or table fee?
Beginning April 15, 2026, during peak hours we require a minimum food and beverage purchase of $25 per seated guest.
Guests who do not meet the minimum will have a $5 adjustment added to their bill.
This policy applies only to guests seated at tables. Guests are always welcome to browse our shop without any food or beverage purchase.
Peak Hours
- Weekdays: After 5:00 PM
- Weekends: All day
(Please see exceptions below.)
Are there exceptions to the minimum purchase policy?
Yes. The following guests are exempt:
- Guests seated at the bar
- Guests with reservations
- Children 12 and under
- Guests attending ticketed (paid) events
For guest convenience, table spending is pooled: If a table’s combined food and beverage purchases meet or exceed the collective minimum, no individual adjustments will be applied.
Example: Four guests spend $100 total—no adjustments apply, even if one guest spent less than $25.
Guests attending free-entry events are subject to the minimum purchase policy.
What if I just want to come in for a drink?
Why are you implementing a minimum purchase or fee?
Emerald Tavern has the same overhead costs as a traditional restaurant—staff, rent, utilities, and food costs—but our guests tend to stay significantly longer, resulting in fewer table turns.
To remain sustainable and continue taking great care of our team, this change is necessary.
Is the minimum calculated before or after tax?
How was the $25 minimum determined?
With an average guest visit of over two hours, we believe this is a reasonable expectation.
What happens if I don’t meet the minimum?
If a guest does not meet the $25 minimum, a $5 adjustment will be added to their bill.
This option exists to accommodate guests who may not be hungry, have dietary restrictions, or have other circumstances, while still supporting the shared use of our table space.
House Policies & Guest Guidelines
Can I bring in my own thermos, water bottle, cup, or other outside liquid container (even if empty)?
To ensure full compliance, we only allow liquids provided by our staff and served in our drinking vessels.
Do you allow outside food or beverages?
We offer a wide variety of food, beverages, and snacks for purchase.
Are pets or dogs allowed at Emerald Tavern, including the patio?
A service animal is strictly defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Emerald Tavern fully supports individuals who rely on legitimate service animals and takes this step to protect those animals from untrained pets.
Under Texas Human Resources Code §121.006, falsely representing a non‑service animal as a service animal is illegal and punishable by fines up to $1,000 and community service.
I’m hosting a birthday party or special event—can I bring a cake?
A plating fee applies and must be arranged as part of your reservation. We will provide plates and cutlery.
Please inquire with staff before bringing a cake.
Can I smoke or vape at Emerald Tavern?
Can I host a LAN party or electronic gaming event?
Potential exceptions may be considered only for private room bookings, on a case‑by‑case basis.
Can I use my phone, tablet, or laptop speakers inside Emerald Tavern?
Headphones and earbuds are always welcome.
Can I sit wherever I’d like?
When self‑seating is available, please choose a table appropriate for your party size. We may ask smaller parties to move to accommodate larger groups.
Example: Two guests at a six‑top may be asked to move if a larger party is waiting.