Popular local pub on a small river in Kent. Was busy for a late lunch but no wait for a table. The small menu had good choices for salads, sandwiches and dinners with a drink menu that had a good variety also. We chose salads and they were well put together and large enough for our meal. The young lady that served us was pleasant and willing to help with the menu and answer questions about the local area. I'd like to return in warm weather to have lunch on their deck next to the river.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
Om Bakhshi
I have never paid so much money for such bad food. Both my food as well as the other person I was with’s had no flavor.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 3
Adam Park
I enjoy myself at River merchant. The atmosphere is amazing The food is excellent The waiters work extremely hard so be sure to tip them well lol it is a amazing restaurant
Vegetarian options: Sorry I don't know much about the vegetarian menu everything is excellent and I'm sure there are vegetarian meals that vegetarians wood enjoy
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Salmon, Sweet Potato Tots, Chicken Florentine, Caesar Salad, Steak and Potatoes, Korean BBQ Brisket Tacos, Fire Roasted Feta Dip
Robin Kavanagh
The food was expensive over priced and the combination of food was off Didn't try any of the wines limit menu on food
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 2
Tam Olle
First time, but not the last time visiting this restaurant! We had a group of people with different tastes, and everyone was very happy with their order. The quality and freshness of the food made this meal as enjoyable as it was a good value for the cost. Matthew took the time to educate me on some different wines in a way that was easy to understand. The ambiance is an added bonus. This place is fancy enough to make it feel special for a girls day out, a quiet dinner or a fun time with friends. The River Merchant gets it right!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sweet Potato Tots, Fire Roasted Feta Dip
Tiffani Soltis
I recently had the pleasure of dining at The River Merchant in Kent, Ohio, and it was an unforgettable experience! From the moment I walked in, I was struck by the ambiance. The lighting was perfectly balanced—cozy yet bright enough to appreciate the beautifully curated decor, which felt so fitting for the location and added to the welcoming vibe of the space.
I started with the Fire Roasted Feta Dip, and let me just say—this dish changed my opinion on feta! I’m not typically a fan, but this dip was absolutely delicious. Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, it was a fantastic start to the meal.
Next, I indulged in the Mushroom Flatbread, and it was perfection on a plate. The white sauce was a brilliant complement to the caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, creating a harmony of flavors that I couldn’t get enough of.
The service was another highlight of the evening. Shawn, our server, was incredibly attentive and provided amazing recommendations that made the dining experience even better. Their attention to detail and knowledge of the menu truly elevated the meal.
The River Merchant has left a lasting impression on me. Whether you're a local or just passing through Kent, this spot is a must-visit for a cozy yet elevated dining experience. I can’t wait to return and try more of their incredible offerings!
Vegetarian options: Clearly labeled
Dietary restrictions: Had vegetarian options available
Parking: Easy parking
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sweet Potato Tots, Fire Roasted Feta Dip
LaTonya “L.T.” Myers
You should add "Value for the Price" as a category. Pricey for area and smaller serving sizes. Lunch is approximately $20 not including the tip expense. Food tastes and quality are good. Acoustics not great if you have a larger party. Very loud.
Very friendly people, and a nice view of the river.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Samantha Schilling
Food has gone way down hill. Everything is frozen and deep fried. One bartender to serve a full restaurant while the owner walks around on his phone. Never going back.
The River Merchant is 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Popular local pub on a small river in Kent. Was busy for a late lunch but no wait for a table. The small menu had good choices for salads, sandwiches and dinners with a drink menu that had a good variety also. We chose salads and they were well put together and large enough for our meal. The young lady that served us was pleasant and willing to help with the menu and answer questions about the local area. I'd like to return in warm weather to have lunch on their deck next to the river.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
I have never paid so much money for such bad food. Both my food as well as the other person I was with’s had no flavor.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 3
I enjoy myself at River merchant. The atmosphere is amazing The food is excellent The waiters work extremely hard so be sure to tip them well lol it is a amazing restaurant
Vegetarian options: Sorry I don't know much about the vegetarian menu everything is excellent and I'm sure there are vegetarian meals that vegetarians wood enjoy
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Salmon, Sweet Potato Tots, Chicken Florentine, Caesar Salad, Steak and Potatoes, Korean BBQ Brisket Tacos, Fire Roasted Feta Dip
The food was expensive over priced and the combination of food was off Didn't try any of the wines limit menu on food
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 2
Service: 2
First time, but not the last time visiting this restaurant! We had a group of people with different tastes, and everyone was very happy with their order. The quality and freshness of the food made this meal as enjoyable as it was a good value for the cost. Matthew took the time to educate me on some different wines in a way that was easy to understand. The ambiance is an added bonus. This place is fancy enough to make it feel special for a girls day out, a quiet dinner or a fun time with friends. The River Merchant gets it right!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sweet Potato Tots, Fire Roasted Feta Dip
I recently had the pleasure of dining at The River Merchant in Kent, Ohio, and it was an unforgettable experience! From the moment I walked in, I was struck by the ambiance. The lighting was perfectly balanced—cozy yet bright enough to appreciate the beautifully curated decor, which felt so fitting for the location and added to the welcoming vibe of the space.
I started with the Fire Roasted Feta Dip, and let me just say—this dish changed my opinion on feta! I’m not typically a fan, but this dip was absolutely delicious. Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced, it was a fantastic start to the meal.
Next, I indulged in the Mushroom Flatbread, and it was perfection on a plate. The white sauce was a brilliant complement to the caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms, creating a harmony of flavors that I couldn’t get enough of.
The service was another highlight of the evening. Shawn, our server, was incredibly attentive and provided amazing recommendations that made the dining experience even better. Their attention to detail and knowledge of the menu truly elevated the meal.
The River Merchant has left a lasting impression on me. Whether you're a local or just passing through Kent, this spot is a must-visit for a cozy yet elevated dining experience. I can’t wait to return and try more of their incredible offerings!
Vegetarian options: Clearly labeled
Dietary restrictions: Had vegetarian options available
Parking: Easy parking
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Sweet Potato Tots, Fire Roasted Feta Dip
You should add "Value for the Price" as a category. Pricey for area and smaller serving sizes. Lunch is approximately $20 not including the tip expense. Food tastes and quality are good. Acoustics not great if you have a larger party. Very loud.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Sweet Potato Tots, Brussels Sprouts, Crab Cakes, Marinated Olives, Fire Roasted Feta Dip
Very friendly people, and a nice view of the river.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food has gone way down hill. Everything is frozen and deep fried. One bartender to serve a full restaurant while the owner walks around on his phone. Never going back.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 3
Restaurantji Recommends
Every time that we have been there, be it summer, fall, winter or spring, the service is tops and the food good. I wish that we lived closer.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Had an extraordinary time! Loved it all and really enjoyed the sweet potato tater tots and feta dip. Delish!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food was delicious and both the people and atmosphere very welcoming.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Really good food and helpful staff. The previous reviews are misguiding, it’s a great spot. Enjoyed everything!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The atmosphere was lovely but the food left a lot to be desired.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 1
Service: 2
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