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  5. DUMBO / Vinegar Hill
River Cafe, Brooklyn, NY
River Cafe, Brooklyn, NY
River Cafe, Brooklyn, NY
River Cafe, Brooklyn, NY
River Cafe, Brooklyn, NY
Award-winning

River Cafe

4.8
4.8
8604 Reviews
$50 and over
American
The River Café is one of New York and America’s most unique locations. Nestled under the Brooklyn Bridge with sweeping views of the New York skyline and the Statue of Liberty, this elegant restaurant has, since 1977, been a favorite destination for New Yorkers and visitors from around the world who demand the highest level of cuisine. Renowned for its exquisite setting, beautiful decor and seamless service The River Café serves a wonderful classic New American menu using only the finest, freshest and often rare ingredients. With an award winning and outstanding wine list, romantic piano music nightly, breathtaking floral arrangements, the River Café is more than simply dining, it is often a magical experience. Whether you are coming for dinner or a private party, be sure to leave some time to enjoy The River Café’s spectacular garden.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 52 times today

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Fine Dining
  • Cuisines
    American
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Wed–Sun 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (718) 522-5200
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Carte Blanche, JCB, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Jacket Required
  • Executive chef
    Brad Steelman
  • Private party facilities
    The Terrace Room at The River Café is uniquely capable of offering your guests an unsurpassed setting for private dining with spectacular views overlooking New York Harbor, The Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.Inquiries about special events please contact privateevents@rivercafe.com
  • Private party contact
    Alyson Pike : (718) 522-5200
  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN 1 Star 2022
  • Neighborhood
    DUMBO / Vinegar Hill
  • Cross street
    Old Fulton St.
  • Parking details
    Valet parking is always available to guests with reservations. The River Café's cobblestone entrance is beautiful but sometimes challenging for people to navigate on foot. If you arrive by taxi, please insist your driver take you past the cobblestones, directly to the restaurant's front door roundabout.
  • Public transit
    A or C train to High Street 2 or 3 train to Clark Street F train to York Street Bus #B25 to Old Fulton St./Cadman Plaza West
  • Entertainment
    The River Cafe features live piano nightly.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Cocktails, Full Bar, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 8,604 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.9Food
  • 4.9Service
  • 4.9Ambience
  • 4.4Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Brooklyn

    Best Food

  • Brooklyn

    Best Service

  • Brooklyn

    Best Ambiance

  • Brooklyn

    Great for fine wines

  • Brooklyn

    Romantic

  • Brooklyn

    Great for scenic views

  • Brooklyn

    Most Booked

8,604 Reviews
  1. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 1 day ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    IMPECABLE SERVICE. I mean it. From the valet to the server(red hair server, sorry forgot his name). It was my fiancees bday and this restaurant did everything perfect. I couldnt have a better experience as I had tonight. There’s a reason they are Michelin star. Thank you River Cafe for a GREAT night:) Zafar Raza

    Is this helpful?

  2. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great experience, wait staff was knowledgeable and food was delicious

    Is this helpful?

  3. GillesG

    San Francisco

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Peut-être un peu trop l’habitude d’y aller…. Le rapport qualité prix n’y est plus. Le sommelier qui nous vend un vin exceptionnel qui pour finir est correct mais sans plus et qui fait grimper l’addition. Le prix du repas s’est envolé avec l’étoile c’est dommage car il y a rien de plus. Honnêtement on a un Etoilé à Paris pour le même prix même si …. La vue reste magique. 🤩

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  4. Davethediner

    San Diego

    281 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    281 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A lifetime memory to spend and evening here - the food - every course - was memorable - the wine was spectacular - and the entire waitstaff was friendly and eager to help with anything - I will say one of the most expensive meals we have had - even in NYC!

    Is this helpful?

  5. pamelat

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We were celebrating a special occasion and The River Cafe helped us make it that much more special. We were so happy to get a fabulous table looking over the water. Food was delicious and inventive and every staff member, in every capacity, was charming, friendly and expert in their area. Every course came with an extra amuse bouche, even the dessert! We will happily return...

    Is this helpful?

  6. OpenTable Diner

    Atlanta Metro

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    worth every penny. the views and the food were equally as incredible. thank you for your attention to detail! we will be back!

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had an absolutely lovely experience here. The view and ambience were unparalleled, and the service was incredible. The food was also delicious! We felt so special on our anniversary!

    Is this helpful?

  8. SusanB

    New York Area

    19 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    19 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The best fine dining when you are celebrating and ready to splurge.

    Is this helpful?

  9. BennettS

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Go here, often, for special occasions. Fantastic location on all fronts.

    Is this helpful?

  10. DanielleS

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The cutest place in New York by far. Food is incredible, traditional but well executed and the chef brings out surprises along the way. Will definitely be going back!

    1 person found this helpful

  11. Inside

    West Palm Beach

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My absolute favorite restaurant in the US. Every time I visit one a year it never disappoints me, as a matter of facts “it gets better and better.. Food is superior service impeccable the atmosphere is exciting and beautiful. Thank you again for making Brooklyn the better side to dine.. Eva

    Is this helpful?

  12. Stewart

    New York Area

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We want to thank you for a most enjoyable dinner last evening. We had no problems in making reservations for our requested day and time. The staff (maitre d', waiters, assistants to the waiters, valet, etc.) provided prompt, efficient, and courteous service. The food (lobster tail and lamb chops as well as all of the appetizers and desserts) was cooked/prepared to perfection with most unique presentations. To top it off, the position of our table in your dining venue provided panoramic views of the river and Manhattan skyline.

    Is this helpful?

  13. LizK

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This place is stunning. Perfect when an occasion needs celebrating. Wine is expensive but there are a few options when cost is important. We went on our last night in NYC and it was the perfect ending to our trip.

    Is this helpful?

  14. RosemaryP

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent food, excellent service and excellent location

    Is this helpful?

  15. Carine

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    Perfect view, very fine dining, classy and nice staff.

    Is this helpful?

  16. RomaineM

    New York Area

    7 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great experience from beginning to end. The food was delicious and service excellent.

    Is this helpful?

  17. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Best dining experience. Servers were amazing as well as the food. Perfect view of the bridge

    Is this helpful?

  18. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    13 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall2food2service3ambience5
    I came here with my husband for my birthday, and to celebrate, being two weeks, newlyweds. You’re definitely paying for the view here and not the food. When you're charging $195 per person you better have top notch food to match the bill. Extremely disappointed with River Café. This has been one of the worst fancy meals, I have had in a very long time. The service started off great in the beginning until we got our appetizers which was recommended by the server. The Portuguese octopus was over cooked and rubbery, when we complained to our waiter and send it back, the whole demeanor of the staff changed. We were no longer were being attended to. We ordered a bottle of wine. I had to call the sommelier over during dinner to refill our glasses, as I said, they stopped being attentive to us. I felt like all the food was already premade and mediocre. The chef special that was brought out was very good. That's exactly how I know everything else was premade. The desert tasted like it came from BJ's/ Costco and was just defrosted. Do not get the Brooklyn bridge chocolate dessert. It tasted like old chocolate. A glass of sancerre wine will cost you $50! Ridiculous prices for not so great service and average food. 

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  19. AnnaC

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience4
    from a 700 dollar restaurant I expect them not to confuse the glass of water with the glass of wine, which instead happened

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  20. StevenT

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fab food & service but on occasions seated near window could be a little chilly- but worth it for views.

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  21. Untouristy

    New York Area

    3 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall3food3service5ambience4
    If you want to spend $250+ per person and get about half that in value - you may want to consider this restaurant - the River view is nice but only if you get a table by the window. The food was good and so is the service but the portions are relatively small. I have had better food at restaurants that are 1/2 the price. A tourist trap for sure and you should reconsider going here if you want more value for the money

    Is this helpful?

  22. KarenM

    New York Area

    12 reviews

    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    You will be pampered in a beautiful setting. The food is incredible. The service is warm and solicitous. And the view...breathtaking!

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  23. PasqualeLorenzo

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Una location fantastica. Ci accompagnano al tavolo e , poco dopo, visto la ricorrenza, ci fanno accomodare vicino la vetrata , dove è' possibile ammirare New York di notte. Gustiamo una dopo l'altra, le prelibatezze dello chef ( il quale ci fa " un aggiunta " molto gradita ). Tutte pietanze molto gustose e ben impiattate. Che dire …. posto fantastico, servizio molto professionale e pietanze da 10 e lode 👏👏👏👏

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  24. joseph

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Unforgettable night, everything has been perfect !

    Is this helpful?

  25. Bestfriendever

    New York Area

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We went for my 30th bday. The staff is incredibly attentive. They were able to accommodate my dietary restrictions with ease (lactose intolerance). The wine and food were insanely good. The views from the bar are the best. I highly reccomend.

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  26. TommasoT

    Italy

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Stunning. One of the best night in all my life. Magical

    Is this helpful?

  27. MarkH

    Calgary

    41 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    41 reviews

    Dined on September 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The River Cafe is phenomenal. It offers an incredible view of downtown Manhattan, great food, and wine accompanied by exquisite live jazz piano. It was a special night.

    Is this helpful?

  28. JohnH

    Washington DC

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on September 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Anniversary

    Is this helpful?

  29. meatball

    Cincinnati

    1 review

    vip
    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall3food4service4ambience2
    Cool spot but not much privacy, seating is amazingly close to others. Staff and service were great!

    Is this helpful?

  30. shazam

    San Francisco

    21 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    21 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful space, attentive staff and amazing food.

    Is this helpful?

  31. LisaW

    Gloucestershire

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Beautiful location and excellent food and service. I have dined here several times and its always a wonderful experience. The location, ambiance and food really is second to none. A thoroughly enjoyable evening.

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  32. LissaH

    San Francisco

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had! Food, service and ambience was exceptional! Men need a coat and ladies should wear a dress!

    Is this helpful?

  33. FionaK

    Yorkshire

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Unforgettable experience. Beautiful location, perfect service and unbeatable food.

    Is this helpful?

  34. LadyM

    New York Area

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Treasured experience for over 30 years. Celebrated our anniversary here and once again had the best dining experience New York has to offer.

    Is this helpful?

  35. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of the best experiences of my life. The atmosphere of the restaurant is unbeatable, the staff are exceptional. The gnocchi appetizer was delicious (out of this world) truffles were shaved table side. The black sea bass entree was perfect. The lemon soufflé was (chefs kiss). We will definitely return to this lovely restaurant.

    Is this helpful?

  36. Gabe

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Is an experience from the beginning until the end! Excellent restaurant!

    Is this helpful?

  37. Ellen

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was a wonderful experience, although we did not get a window table almost all the seating enjoys view. The cocktails were outstanding . Our sommelier was informative and the service was above board. Each course was an experience in itself . Desert I had the bridge , just had to . My son had the Madeira flight ! Wow just wow ! The flowers were beautiful. We throughly enjoyed ourself . If you have a special occasion I would recommend River cafe ,

    Is this helpful?

  38. PaulC

    London

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Two of the best dishes we've ever eaten! Quality service and a fantastic location. Eat here at least once when visiting NY.

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  39. VeronicaC

    New York Area

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    A top shelf, first class operation. Professionalism, attention to detail, creative and delicious cuisine. . . Hit all the high points. The most beautiful setting. . . Can’t say enough.

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  40. JeffP

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fantastic!! Still the best! The food the view, the wine and service 7 Star. Always the best!! Most romantic in NYC area!

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Distancing maintained in common areas
    • Extra space between tables
  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks
    • Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

River Cafe is rated 4.8 stars by 8604 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 52 times today
Google Map for River Cafe

1 Water St., Brooklyn, NY 11201

Additional information

  • Award-winning
    1. MICHELIN 1 Star 2022
  • Cross street
    Old Fulton St.
  • Neighborhood
    DUMBO / Vinegar Hill
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Wed–Sun 5:00 pm–11:00 pm
  • Cuisines
    American
  • Dining style
    Fine Dining
  • Dress code
    Jacket Required
  • Parking details
    Valet parking is always available to guests with reservations. The River Café's cobblestone entrance is beautiful but sometimes challenging for people to navigate on foot. If you arrive by taxi, please insist your driver take you past the cobblestones, directly to the restaurant's front door roundabout.
  • Public transit
    A or C train to High Street 2 or 3 train to Clark Street F train to York Street Bus #B25 to Old Fulton St./Cadman Plaza West
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Carte Blanche, JCB, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Brad Steelman
  • Entertainment
    The River Cafe features live piano nightly.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Cocktails, Full Bar, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Phone number
    (718) 522-5200
  • Private party facilities
    The Terrace Room at The River Café is uniquely capable of offering your guests an unsurpassed setting for private dining with spectacular views overlooking New York Harbor, The Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.Inquiries about special events please contact privateevents@rivercafe.com
  • Private party contact
    Alyson Pike : (718) 522-5200
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