River Café
$$$ • Canadian, Wine Bars, Gluten-Free Book a table: 7:00 PM 7:15 PM 7:30 PM MoreAbout River Café
Customers' Favorites
River Café Reviews
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This place is so cute, a nice hideaway downtown. The food and drinks are amazing. Wonderful location and have always loved my time here! The chef's know what they are doing!
MUST VISIT! We had lunch outside and it was beautiful! We got the beef tartar and the noodles and you could tell they were made from scratch!
Foof was good. Not good enough to warrant the cost though Server was inattentive. Atmosphere was nice.
Hours
| Monday | 11AM - 3PM |
| Tuesday | 11AM - 2PM |
| Wednesday | 2 - 10PM |
| Thursday | 6:30 - 10PM |
| Friday | 11AM - 10PM |
| Saturday | 10AM - 10PM |
| Sunday | 10AM - 10PM |
The River Café offers a delightful dining experience with good food, great service, and a warm, cozy atmosphere. This charming restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it is a special destination. The outdoor seating creates a fairy tale ambiance, surrounded by nature and local flora. Customers appreciate the friendly and attentive service, with staff knowledgeable about the menu and the origins of the ingredients. The menu features a range of dishes, including the highly recommended Halibut Cakes, which showcase Canada's beautiful cuisine, and a stunning pastry trio known for its unique flavors.
Recent reviews highlight the wonderful Sunday brunch, which features inventive presentation, great flavor, and interesting textures. Dishes like smoked salmon tartlette and Lambtastic sausages received praise, and the brunch includes enjoyable drinks like rose bubbly and strawberry rhubarb simple syrup with bubbly water. The restaurant remains a favorite for lunch, with highlights such as Haida Gwaii halibut fish cakes and poached eggs served alongside excellent drinks, including local apple cider. Many guests mention their desire to return, especially during special occasions or visits in the summer.
The experience extends to special touches that make visits memorable. One guest described their very first visit as phenomenal, noting the thoughtful card for a birthday signed by the staff, professional service, and incredible food. The tartare was described as magical, and the atmosphere was warm, beautifully lit, and welcoming, striking a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Visitors often enjoy the cozy interior with a log fire, which adds to the inviting atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of dishes, such as eggs Benedict, croque madame, smoked salmon tartlette, and haddock fishcake, all praised for their taste. For dessert, some found the chocolate pavlova and creme brulée a bit too sweet, but overall, the quality remains high. Additionally, the restaurant offers a Tasting Menu, which has received praise for its new and incredible flavors, textures, and spices, served at a relaxed pace. Staff, including a charming and knowledgeable principal server, enhance the experience with excellent recommendations, especially for wine pairings with steak options like tenderloin and strip loin.
Overall, the River Café is praised as a top spot for celebrating special moments or enjoying a delightful afternoon, confirming its reputation as one of the best restaurants in the world.