The River Café in Brooklyn
New York City has many iconic restaurants, but The River Café is a favorite among both locals and tourists. It is located under the majestic Brooklyn Bridge and offers breathtaking views of the waterfront, which complement its Michelin-starred menu. This legendary fine-dining establishment was established in 1977 and exudes old-school charm. The restaurant has a formal dress code that adds to the special occasion atmosphere.
Recently, I celebrated my birthday with a memorable dinner at The River Café, thanks to my thoughtful partner Gabriel and my brother Brian. The dress code hinted at the upscale experience and added to the excitement. What made The River Café even more memorable was that Gabriel's mom mentioned that she had dined at this iconic restaurant in the 80s — which made dining at The River Café even more special for me.
In this review, we'll explore the ambiance, dive into the dining experience, and answer the burning question: Is this Michelin-starred experience worth the splurge?
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brief history
The River Café's legacy began in 1977, a time when its waterfront location was a forgotten corner of New York. Michael O'Keeffe, a visionary and the owner, saw the potential of The River Café despite skepticism and challenging financial times in the 70s.
He spent twelve years gaining approval from the city and building his dream. His gamble paid off when The River Café opened in June of 1977 and quickly earned a Michelin star the following year.
Today, The River Café is an icon of New York City, known for its magnificent views and cuisine that embraces seasonal ingredients.
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dress code
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the ambiance
TIP 💭
Request a window table when making your reservation to get the best view
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dining experience
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the service
The service at The River Café is attentive and professional, which truly elevates the dining experience. The staff's knowledge and genuine hospitality shine through in every interaction. Many diners, like ourselves, might not be wine experts, but the knowledgeable sommeliers come in handy.
Our sommelier expertly guided us through the extensive wine list, recommending perfect pairings that complemented our food beautifully. Their suggestions made sure that the food and wine became a harmonious symphony on the palate.
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The River Cafe verdict
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know before you go!
DRESS CODE
Formal. Men are required to wear a jacket and collared shirts. Ties are preferred, but not mandatory. No casual attire like jeans, athletic wear, or sandals is allowed.
MENU
The menu at The River Cafe changes frequently to showcase seasonal ingredients, so be sure to visit their website for the latest offerings.
PERFECT FOR
Romantic evenings. Celebratory dinners.
PHOTOS
Refrain from taking photos or videos
PRICING
$$$$
RESERVE YOUR SPOT
Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties (over 5 people).
Book your reservation in advance, especially if you're planning to dine on a weekend or for a special occasion.
Secure your spot here
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check out my Montréal travel vlog!
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01262024 19:58
Last Updated: 08.05.2024