The River Cafe

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4,220 reviews

#14 of 6,701 Restaurants in Brooklyn₱₱₱₱, American, Vegetarian friendly

+1 718-522-5200+ Add website

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Hours

Sun

5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Wed

5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Thu

5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Fri

5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Sat

5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

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MICHELIN

What is Travelers’ Choice?

Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

Ratings and reviews

4.5

4,220 reviews

#14 of 6,701 Restaurants in Brooklyn

Travelers' Choice Best of the Best 2024

MICHELIN

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RATINGS

Food

Service

Value

Atmosphere

Details

Someone from this business manages this listing.

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PRICE RANGE

₱9,974.00 – ₱13,201.00

CUISINES

American

Special Diets

Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options

meals, features

Location and contact

1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201-1335

DUMBO

+1 718-522-5200

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MICHELIN Guide's Point of View

With its stunning location in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge, complete with an eye-popping view of the Manhattan skyline, a visit to this landmark c...

Sponsored by: The River Cafe

1. The View

"The food was exceptional!"

olgacV6564AB

2. Food

"Very lovely restaurant with amazing food and great staff."

James H

3. Wine

"The Michelin star is well earned."

JDMilly

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4.5

4,220 reviews

Excellent

2,951

Very good

718

Average

275

Poor

115

Terrible

164

Lynda V

Long Beach452 contributions

Favorite Review

Unforgettable Dining Experience

Sep 2023 • couples

What an amazing experience! Just got back to our Manhattan hotel after spending the evening at the River Cafe, and all I can say is, Wow! Everything was spectacular, from the food, to the service to the atmosphere. First, the atmosphere. The location of the River Cafe, right on the water under the Brooklyn Bridge, overlooking the lights of the Manhattan skyline, cannot be beat. But that’s just one element. The food, cocktails and wine are equally good. While it is spendy at $195 pp for three courses, that price includes a large list of choices in the starters and mains courses, a respectable number of choices in the dessert course, and two additional small courses not listed (an amuse bouche at the start and a three-taste mini course between starter and main), plus several chocolates after dessert. The food was top notch. Due to having dental surgery not long before visiting New York, I was limited to ordering softer food. This was not a problem for the River Cafe.I ordered my favorite starter (sautéed foie gras - delicious) and then was able to order an entree sized portion of another starter, Gnocchi with Truffles, as my main. Husband ordered oysters wire caviar followed by venison. Finally for dessert we shared the goat cheese cheesecake and the Madeira flight with petite sweets. Everything was fabulous. The service is equally good. Special shout out to the sommelier Steven. Rather than push us to choose expensive full bottles of wine, he helped us choose a combination of wines by the glass and half bottles, so that we were able to have just the right wines to match our tastes while also pairing well with the food. I can highly recommend the River Cafe for a memorable dining experience in New York.

Written September 28, 2023

This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

DEngelJ

286 contributions

Perfection!

Jan 2020 • none

The bad news: you pay for a Michelin star and it does not come cheap. The set dinner, with no drinks or wine, is $150/per person. If you opt for wine add another $125. But the good news really does outweigh the bad because everything is absolute perfection. The approach from the street is lit with fairy lights in all the trees and shrubs. The small lobby is a riot of sprays of cherry blossoms and Easter lilies- in mid January. Inside the restaurant the view across the East River to lower Manhattan is the star. The supporting cast are the large and beautiful arrangements of roses on the tables, each one in a different color palette. The service is perfection too, as is the food. It should be at this price. A small amuse boy he is served first with an assortment of various kinds of house baked rolls. Then I had a duet of foie gras which consisted of a foie gras parfait and a small glass jar of bloc foie gras served with the most delicate slices of toasted brioche. My main course was lobster with some sublime purée. For dessert the chocolate Brooklyn Bridge is a must. It is an amazing confection based on chocolate cake with a rich chocolate ganache and a chocolate superstructure resembling the bridge itself. See photo below. The expense involved puts the River Café in the special celebrations only category, but we did not feel ripped off. Do note that a taxi from midtown to the River Café cost us $40 plus tip for four passengers and a taxi back after dinner cost $60.

Written January 22, 2020

maguirebarnes101

Birmingham45 contributions

Stunning Views, Very Good Food & Fantastic Piano Player.

Dec 2019 • none

Visited The River Cafe after a recommendation from a friend and honestly did not know what to expect. We rang on the hop for a lunchtime sitting as we were in and about the area and the Maitre `d was great and said we`d have a table if we could get there in time and also mentioned the dress code. We were actually site seeing so not really dressed up but the restaurant seemed relaxed enough dress code wise when we arrived. The food was very, very good and the views are something to behold. The staff were attentive and the servers were all very knowledgeable and we were asked to taste the wine before pouring ( as others have mentioned this was not the case ). This is definitely not a Cafe in the European sense and is more of a high end experience so make it more of an occasion date as it is not cheap but we felt the food, views, service & place itself were enough to justify the price paid. I had the Risotto starter which was delicious and creamy and my wife had the Sea Scallop & Pork Belly which was equally enjoyed. Both our mains of Ranch Steak & Black Sea Bass were also very, very tasty and the cheese cake and cheeses to finish were a great finish to the meal. The piano player also deserves a shout out as he was fantastic and really added to the atmosphere. As we visited in the day we were considering booking again as the views at night must be stunning which says it all really. Would recommend if you are in NY/Brooklyn but for more of a treat yourself occasion.

Written January 12, 2020

Ny_nyHonestreviewer1

42 contributions

Superfluous

Dec 2019 • family

This restaurant really is a world class example of what a rememberable dining experience could and should be. It’s obviously an incredibly expensive endeavor for a family to dine here but when your celebrating a daughters special occasion there is no better place to be. From the valets to the hostesses to the waiters and Josh the maitre d they are experts in this art of hospitality. That being said the food has to be exemplary and it certainly is. The rabbit, scallops and pork belly, jumbo shrimp, Niman Ranch beef and the lamb were outstanding. Desserts were stunning and the wine selection is second to none. All of this done perfectly while having a spectacular view. Like I said earlier. For most of us this not a weekly or monthly visit but when it’s for something special in your family’s life this is the place to visit .

Written January 7, 2020

PinkEgg78

West Malling313 contributions

Lovely Brunch with Stunning views!

Dec 2019 • none

A friend of ours recommended the River Cafe to us for our trip to NYC and we're so glad he did otherwise we wouldn't have known about it. We didn't have time to book a lunch/dinner there, but we did manage to book in a brunch before one of our trips. We read up on the dress code beforehand, which thankfully is a little more relaxed for that time of day, as it was a beautiful blue crisp winters day, we still needed to wear boots/hats/scarfs etc but were still smart casual. As you arrive at the Cafe, you're treated to stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Hudson, it really does take your breathe away. The restaurant itself is quaint and full of character, as it was December, it was also decked out with a stunning Christmas tree and fairy lights, it really was special. There were a few other diners in the restaurant but we seemed to have been given the best table in the dining room, right at the front with great views, so we felt very spoiled indeed and it was lovely. All the staff seemed very friendly and helpful, particularly our main server who couldn't do enough for us - without having to ask, they informed us they would be putting the awning down on one side of the building as it was so sunny. We both ordered a fresh juice (Carrot & Orange) plus a cocktail and a Beer. The juices were really tasty, but unfortunately I cannot fathom as to why they cost $18 each, there was nothing much to them, so It's not even like it was style over substance, for the price i was expecting something more WOW! The cocktail was lovely though. We both had the pastrami with Eggs and hash brown and it was really very good, particularly the eggs, I can be fussy with Egg whites, but for some reason, whilst in NY I really enjoyed them, not sure what the difference is, but i'm not complaining. The Hash Brown was nice, but I found it a little unseasoned. As we were out all day, we opted to share a pudding just so we could try one, we had the Chocolate Mousse cake with ice cream and a very gimmicky chocolate Brooklyn bridge which was fun and very tasty! Throughout the meal, I was offered coffee, I only have it black and usually just one cup, but the young girl serving it pestered me so much with re-fill offers, I ended up accepting another just so she would leave me alone, although she still persisted in asking me if I wanted more every five minutes which became really irritating, but more annoying was when we received the bill and found that you're actually charge for every cup you have, no free re-fills here.....explains why she's so persistent then, so don't be caught out if you do like to have more than one cup, i thought that was a little dishonest of them really and it's not cheap either. After our meal they opened the doors so we could have some photos taken by the decking, then we collected our belongings from the very friendly lady at the front desk. Overall it was a nice experience and a real treat, not sure It justify's the $120 price tag for brunch, I think you're paying for the views/surroundings, however, we're glad it was recommended to us as it's more of a one off place.

Written January 2, 2020

bobbu319

West Nyack54 contributions

Visit with friends. No special occasion

Feb 2020 • none

The atmosphere was nice. The room was extremely cramped. Coats were to be checked because there was so little room between tables that they would have been cumbersome on the backs of chairs. The ABUNDANT staff was tripping over one another trying to provide some kind of service. The staff was very attentive. To my taste, too attentive. Our conversation was constantly interrupted by another person asking if everything was ok, did we need another overpriced drink, etc. The food was very tasty. I had the steak, and it was prepared to my specifications. The steak was a good size, also. I did feel that the menu was limited. The view from the windows, which we could not get within 30 feet of, must have been exquisite. However, it seems that only "certain" people were shown to tables near the window. (no reservations accepted). Being under the Brooklyn bridge, the windows faced Manhattan. The Manhattan lights were stunning. It seems that this is a restaurant for a special occasion. One at which you wish to impress someone with the ambiance. Otherwise, why would you pay such extreme prices for food and staff that are a bit snooty. I feel the owner has forgotten his roots in Silver Beach of the Bronx. This is not a place to go for a relaxing evening!

Written March 8, 2020

Jon M

7 contributions

Engagement dinner

Oct 2019 • couples

This is one of those iconic restaurants you see in movies. The view is a showstopper and the restaurant itself is beautiful. We came here right after getting engaged and it definitely wowed us. The service is efficient, courteous, and personal even though they turn tables constantly you feel important every time. The menu is a prix fixe and is incredibly reasonable for the quality of food. The Michelin star is well earned. My rack of lamb was like butter, the steak tartare flavourful, and the desert a knockout. They even make a wicked dry martini. I couldn’t recommend the place enough and will definitely be back again and again.

Written February 19, 2020

Gary_7Telford

148 contributions

Special....

Mar 2020 • couples

We knew this was going to be a pricey experience but let’s talk breakfast first. There were only a few visiting which meant we had a table by the window for great views over the Hudson. We all had breakfast from the savoury menu. Eggs, French toast, eggs Benedictine’s etc were all of a very high quality and so was the formal service. It was all a little OTT for breakfast, but it was also a special treat.... and it needed to be when breakfast for 4 was over 200 USD.

Written March 12, 2020

Nancy P

8 contributions

I made reservations for my

Oct 2020 • none

I made reservations for my husband birthday. Once we arrived, the first thing the host said is “welcome” and you have 1 hour and 45 minutes for dinner. For the price you paying for dinner is not the right way to greet someone. The food did not taste good, and they rush you out of the restaurant. I will never go back or recommend anyone to visit.

Written October 27, 2020

StevensAve

Bronx147 contributions

Perhaps the Best Dining Experience in NYC

Oct 2020 • couples

After, 7 months in relative quarantine, first in SF and now in NYC, and not feeling comfortable to eat indoors, I can safely say that eating outside at the River Cafe is one of the best dining experiences available in this Age of Covid. First, we had a beautiful table right on waterfront overlooking lower Manhattan. Second, the River Cafe itself is well appointed and totally airy. Third, the prix fixe 3 course menu ($130 per person) is full of choices and well priced. Fourthly, the wine list has many selections $50 and under. Utilize the sommelier and frame your inquiry: which of these wines, $50 and under, is drinking beautifully right now. We had a delish Austrian Grüner Veltliner - a first for me - which was $34 for a half bottle. Finally, the service is upper tier and very professional. In my opinion, it is well worth 2* Michelin, although it has only one currently. There are few if any restaurants in the world that have the view that awaits you at the River Cafe. In my opinion, it is the best non-Asian restaurant in the City.

Written October 5, 2020

Jen J

Brooklyn11 contributions

Christmas at the Cafe

Dec 2019 • family

My family has visited The River Cafe for Christmas on several occasions- it has become a cherished and elegant tradition. The setting is stunning and the food and service are impeccable. The staff goes above and beyond to make every guest feel special, they welcome you back and pay attention to the details. I highly recommend the River Cafe for special occasions or whenever you need a decadent and fancy treat.

Written February 2, 2020

Lauriemorley

Hadleigh15 contributions

Diner treat

Dec 2019 • couples

Visited the river cafe prior to Christmas and what a treat. This was a special birthday occasion for my wife and following a request to be located on one of their best tables was duly accommodated. We tried the taster menu and it was fabulous. The service was second to none and probably the best we have ever experienced. We could not fault them in anyway. Given however where it was and what we ate it did not come cheap but then that was not our worry. The river cafe is one of those places similar to Jules Verne at the Eiffel Tower that you only go once to but if you can and are able then don’t miss it. Faultless ( apart from $$$’s). Great!

Written March 5, 2020

Ligia J

Florida489 contributions

PRICEY, BUT EXCELLENT

Jan 2020 • none

Four of us had dinner there. First and foremost, the location is rather awesome... the service was great. The food was very good, however I must admit after paying over 500 dollars for two with wine and cocktails, I thought I could have bought some beluga caviar at Petrossian's and enjoyed it just as much! Mind you, the food was very good, and we enjoyed the evening very much. But there are other outstanding restaurants in NYC which do not oblige you to have their three course menu.

Written January 5, 2020

janicedesigns

Claremont24 contributions

Dinner Destination Restaurant

Feb 2020 • family

We hadn’t been to the River Cafe for a decade, and it was as special as I had remembered. They handled my pesky dairy-free and gluten-free needs with discretion and elan, including a special desert that wasn’t on the menu. The food and exquisite service complements the stunning location.

Written February 16, 2020

EddieOnTour

Waterford459 contributions

Highlight of our NYC Stay

Feb 2020 • none

We always come to the River Cafe any time we come to NYC. It is not cheap but we have always been made to feel most welcome and the food is seriously good. We arrived at 6.25pm for our 7pm booking Josh the Maitre D’ welcomed us back and left us in the care of Gary the barman who looked after us so well while we waited for our other 2 guests to arrive. We sat down at our table and had the most beautiful view of Manhattan. Our waiter was very slick and very friendly. Service was as you would expect in a restaurant of this quality. The meal as ever was to die for and the quality of the dishes was sublime. We never noticed time pass and before we knew it it was 11.55pm. We certainly can say we were treated so well on our visit from the minute we arrived a genuine welcome from Josh to the excellent service throughout our meal. Can’t wait until we are back in NYC.

Written February 18, 2020

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