Cultivate CNY Podcast

#111: How Growing Emerald Meant Letting Go ft. Michele Roesch


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In this episode of Cultivate CNY, host Alex Canavan sits down with Michele Roesch, co-founder of Emerald Cocktail Kitchen, Syracuse’s first rooftop bar located in the historic Tipperary Hill neighborhood.


Michele shares the story behind launching Emerald alongside her mom, Nora — from renovating a nearly 140-year-old family pub to reimagining the space as a multi-level hospitality experience. She reflects on the difficult decision to close The Brasserie Bar & Bistro and what it took to shift focus toward building something new.


The conversation explores how Emerald continues to evolve, including the addition of a coffee lounge, rooftop “bubbles” for winter dining, and creative events designed to meet changing consumer habits and foster connection. Michele also discusses what’s ahead, including New Year’s Eve plans and future experiments in experiential hospitality.


🍸 A conversation about pivoting with purpose, redefining hospitality, and building experiences rooted in community.


💬 Topics we cover:

- Launching Emerald Cocktail Kitchen in a historic Syracuse landmark

- Closing one business to grow another

- Adapting to changing consumer behavior in hospitality

- Expanding experiences through coffee, rooftop dining, and events

- What’s next for Emerald in 2026


Get in touch with Michele: [email protected]

Learn more about Emerald

Follow Emerald on Instagram


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