Scarlet Kitchen & Bar

The St. James Hotel opened on Thanksgiving Day, 1875, after a group of 11 civic-minded businessmen recognized the need for a first-class lodging establishment in the port city of Red Wing, Minnesota. The St. James was an immediate sensation and became the hub of activity in Red Wing overnight. The hotels first floor included three dining rooms, the kitchen, office and baggage storage while the lower level featured a parlor, billiard hall, barber shop, public baths, and four water closets. The second floor featured a ladies parlor, bridal suite, and two ladies water closets. An elegant ballroom occupied the fourth floor. Located within walking distance from the Red Wing train depot and the steamboat docks, the hotel was booked to capacity every night with travelers and boarders. The St. James cooks developed such a fantastic reputation that the railroad adjusted its timetables to allow passengers to disembark and enjoy dinners at the hotel. Now owned by the Red Wing Shoe Company, the St. James continues to offer guests the same medley of Old World service, cutting-edge amenities, and culinary delights that it did on the opening day almost 140 years ago.