Iconic waterfront dining w/ breathtaking skyline views & formal ambiance. A quintessential NYC special occasion spot.
Nestled under the Brooklyn Bridge, this iconic restaurant offers a dining experience with unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline. It's a quintessential spot for special occasions, where formal attire is expected and impeccable service complements the sophisticated American cuisine. From decadent dishes to a memorable ambiance, it's a place that promises an unforgettable evening.
The American cuisine here is geared towards special occasions, with some diners noting that the menu is safe and rarely changes. Standout recommendations include the lamb and duck dishes, as well as oysters as a starter. The 'chocolate bridge' dessert is considered iconic, though some feel the food quality doesn't quite match the spectacular setting.
"Dishes frequently mentioned and recommended include the lamb, duck, and oysters. The 'chocolate bridge' dessert is also noted as an iconic menu item."
Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its spectacular views and romantic ambiance, making it a top choice for celebrations. While the food is generally seen as good, the overall experience is often highlighted as the main draw.
Important Note
The restaurant has a formal dress code, requiring jackets for gentlemen. Some diners feel the food quality does not entirely match the high price point and spectacular views, and it may not be suitable for very young children.
"The River Cafe is definitely the winner."
Positive"The River Cafe is the better option."
Positive"For a special celebration with a partner, dressing up, and a fantastic city view, the River Cafe is the superior choice. The experience transports you away from the city while you admire it. Recommended dishes include caviar and lamb chops."
Positive"The River Cafe is the clear choice."
Positive"The River Cafe offers an unrivaled view, amazing food, wine, and cocktails, making it a complete package experience."
Positive"Responding to a suggestion of River Cafe, this user stated that even at such restaurants, a tuxedo would still be out of place."
Negative"This commenter suggested River Cafe as a restaurant where a tuxedo might be justified, questioning why there aren't more such places."
Positive"The River Café is recommended for its great food and best view of the city. With the given budget, one can afford excellent bottle recommendations from the sommelier, and they have a killer wine list."
Positive"This comment suggests Bar56 as a walkable and swanky cocktail bar option for drinks before dinner at River Cafe."
Positive"This user strongly recommended River Cafe."
Neutral"This user described River Cafe as an amazing classic place where they recently celebrated a date night. They noted that their father mentioned he and their mother used to go there before they were married."
Positive"This user described River Cafe as a place for special occasions, noting that the menu rarely changes and is considered 'very safe.' They also mentioned that it's one of the few remaining places that requires men to wear jackets and that there is a piano in the bar area."
Neutral"This restaurant was recommended for its view."
Neutral"This user stated that River Cafe is one of the few places in the city that offers both excellent food and excellent views."
Positive"The River Cafe is listed as a recommendation."
Positive"This user finds recommending River Cafe for a first date to be an 'insane move'."
Negative"This establishment is presented as an option for those looking to 'ball out of control' on a date."
Positive"River Cafe is considered less suitable for a family with a three-year-old, described as having a vibe more appropriate for proposals rather than toddler-friendly dining."
Negative"River Cafe was suggested as a potential restaurant for a birthday dinner."
Neutral"This user considers River Cafe a classic choice for a romantic dinner and has never had a negative experience there."
Positive
