Myself, wife & 2 adult children had brunch there one Sunday. Everything was superb, from the greeting when we arrived, to the meal and wine, and the 'au revoir' when we're leaving, I couldn't fault it. While a little pricey, it was worth it for our special visit to NY. We took a walk along Brooklyn Bridge afterwards, watched the amazing colourful sunset, to end a beautiful afternoon.

Had a beautiful meal within a beautiful setting. The staff are very nice and make you feel very welcome and the food is absolutely delicious.

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.

The RIVER CAFE is an historical place with a special atmosphere in a point of New York, by the river...Unique! Go to the River CAFE is like to be in a movie. Enjoy!!! SEE the pictures and have it in Your mind!!!

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!