The Riviera ~ Ward's Island Kitchen

Pretty subpar place that basically only exists because it's in an island where there is nothing else.

The atmosphere and decor are nice. We liked the high tables and the TVs showing sports.

The food is pretty mediocre for the prices -- we got the cheese dip and it's basically a plastic container straight from the fridge, extremely cold all the way down to the beans. 18 dollars for that is highway robbery.

The waiter seemed like he'd rather be doing anything else but being there. We are not expecting smiles and happiness everywhere. But if you are dealing with customers, a good attitude is preferred.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 1

Service: 1

Came here as the other open food place in the island seemed small and crowded, and the layout looked better here. The pizza thing (piadini) was really nice. The lasagna was worth $26, and absolutely not worth it. It was a tiny portion, didn't taste nice, simply not nice at all and it didn't seem cooked well. In general we really aren't impressed with the food. Waiters were okayish nice. Food was so bad that next time, I'll just get on the ferry back to downtown toronto to eat decent food. Pretty sad because the place has a lot of potential to be better in terms of food quality. 2.5 stars.

Vegetarian options: Cheese and veggie piadina are nice. Veggie lasagna NOT worth it.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 2

Service: 3

If you want to have an explosive diarrhea and extreme low quality foodie experience than this place definitely meets all the needs.

It feels like that lack of competition impacted the quality and value of their offer.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 1

Service: 4

This cafe in an Airstream is an eclectic place; no doubt. If you are into funky stuff, come here. I visited on a sunny day of September and the line was short; but this place is usually busy -again, I am talking about the Airstream. I had a sandwich and a a coffee. All delicious. They have lots of seating space. It can't get more eclectic than this. Well, I guess it could...

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Sandwich

Ordered gluten free vegan lasagna (I am gluten and dairy intolerant) and ordered a second serving to take home. On a warm fall day we sat at a high table with 6 people and two dogs. We had prompt friendly service, a bright atmosphere, and good food. Can't wait to go back next season.

Dietary restrictions: Solid vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free options. I am gluten and dairy intolerant and had no reaction with their vegan and gluten free lasagna (cannot speak to celiac cross contamination sensitivity)

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

staff really nice! food BAD. do not get the pizza please. if u like seasoning, DO NOT come here.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 1

Service: 5

The Runaway Cafe is a fantastic place to visit! The staff were all nice, we love the atmosphere and enjoyed our hot drinks. Looking forward to our next visit.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Very friendly and nice :))

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great atmosphere here! Awesome place to catch a game with great staff. There was a huge spider in the bathroom that scared the heck outta me though.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Poor service, expensive.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 2

This is only for Runaway Cafe. The Riviera appeared it was closed the day I went.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 2

Contrary to website info the Rivera was closed so we dined at the adjoining Rum Shack.
This was disappointing as few patio dining experiences in the GTA come close to the view of the lake and the spit nestled in the trees at the Rivera. The Rum Shack is behind the building with no view.
Montreal smoked meat arrived promptly but a less than generous portion was the experience.
Server was polite but value for the $18 sandwich with a side of potato chips and two tablespoons of coleslaw was disappointing.
We are thankful we live in the city as those who travel a long way for this would be even more disenchanted by their experience.
Clearly others have had better experiences here as have we in the past. We will most likely give them another chance.

Atmosphere: 2

Food: 3

Service: 4

This place has 2 things going for it :
1) Nice setting on the island. There was a lovely sunset when I went there
2) Doesn't need to worry about the competition as there's barely any

The staff were apathetic and the food was both overpriced and below average in quality

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 2

Service: 1

Cold food, too expensive

This is definitely an interesting place with a unique interior and a pleasant atmosphere.

When it comes to the food, it's a mixed experience.
The Montreal sandwich was disappointing—definitely not what we expected. However, the hot dog was quite good and worth trying.

Overall, it's a nice spot to relax with a scenic view, but the food could use some improvement.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 1

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Hot Dog