After making very last-minute Valentine's Day plans and realizing most places were fully booked, we decided to drive around Westport and see what we could find. That spontaneous decision led us to an absolute treasure. They offered the perfect Valentine's Day menu--easy to navigate and beautifully suited for the occasion without being overwhelming. For my appetizer, I had the crab cake, which was incredibly well-seasoned and served on a fresh bed of spinach. It was light yet flavorful, the perfect way to start the evening. For my main course, I ordered the grilled swordfish. It was fresh, tender, and full of flavor. What truly surprised me was the sauce paired with pineapple--it sounded interesting, but it worked perfectly. The balance of savory and sweet was spot on, and every bite complemented the next. To end the night, I had the passion fruit tart for dessert. It was the ideal sweet finish to such a fulfilling meal--bright, refreshing, and not overly heavy. The drinks were also delicious and thoughtfully crafted. The service matched the quality of the food. The owner and servers were attentive, welcoming, and genuinely involved in ensuring we had a great experience. Since we had our children with us, we especially appreciated how accommodating and kind they were. The atmosphere was warm, comfortable, and intimate--perfect for Valentine's Day but also family-friendly. We will definitely be back! read more

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The ambiance is comfortable, inviting and scenic. The host greeted me with a smile and gave me a choice of two tables, I picked the one near the fireplace with a view of the water. Service was very good. The espresso martini was excellent and the bass almandine was delicious. Parking is easy and convenient. I will definitely return! read more

This is the second time I've been to Rive. Once for lunch, for my mom's birthday, and once for dinner for my mom's birthday. (Not in the same year). She really likes this restaurant, so that's where I come in; YELP Wise. The setting is lovely. Right on the river. Seating both inside and out, with hints of French influence. Like the cars in front of the restaurant, (See Picture), and a lot of the selections on the menu. We started with Pate De La Maison and Baked Brie Crostini to share amongst four. The waiter also brought over some bread, which came in handy ** My wife was excited for Moules Marinier {Mussels & Frites) and was glad to still see it on the menu. That, and the presentation, made her day. Although it needed more bread to soak up all the juice. Luckily we still had the bread basket **. My mother ordered the Steak Frites, but the Frites/Fries looked like they were left over from the night before. I had a fish special, Sea Bass I believe, and my brother had Duck Breast A La ' Orange. I tried a bite of all four, and everything was tasty. Mushrooms and Whipped Potatoes for sides, were the right choice. Dessert was a bit of a stumble. While the Hazelnut Chocolate Mousse was more like a dense glob of pudding, the Apple Tart with Vanilla Ice Cream was a better choice. The bill, with a few cocktails, a soda and a double espresso was about $225.00. These days, that's a bargain considering that a lot of times, going out to dinner Fairfield County is more miss than hit. read more

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First of all, we were greeted at the welcome desk by a lady who appeared to speak French but had an unkempt look; not professional at all for a restaurant of this caliber. We loved our waiter! He was exceptional... Juan! Two appetizers underwhelming; coquilles san jacques... consisted of cut up pieces of scallops in a tasteless sauce; likewise for the crab cake, which was just ok. Beef Bourginion entree - passable except for the chunks of zucchini in the sauce.... Menu said potato mousseline... it was mashed potato, which is very different. Drinks were fine French apple tart served warm was delicious. This used to be one of our favorite places..... somethings have definitely changed. read more

We had really been looking forward to this dinner, and it's a shame that the experience was overshadowed by the interaction with the maître d'. Earlier in the week, I spoke with her twice by phone, and she confirmed that we could arrive between 5:00 and 5:30 for our reservation. When we arrived just after 5:30, however, she told us the reservation had been strictly for 5:00, that we were "very late," and that we would only have 75 minutes to dine. When I gently referenced our earlier conversations, she stated she had no memory of them. What made the situation particularly uncomfortable was her tone--while outwardly polished, it felt consistently condescending and dismissive. Throughout the evening, I felt subtly but repeatedly talked down to, which detracted from what should have been an enjoyable night out. It's unfortunate, because the food itself was truly delicious. However, hospitality matters just as much as the meal, and given the unwelcoming experience, we won't be returning. read more

We went for lunch today knowing that we might be snowed if for a few days. The hostess was very nice and offered us two seats saying the one by the water would be colder. We sat there for the view and were immediately sorry we did that since the chill was definitely felt. A few tables had space heaters by them so they were better off. As soon as I saw a couple up by the fireplace getting up, we asked if we could change and that wa easily done. The French Onion Soup is wonderful. A nice and very deep broth with perfectly charred cheese made us nice and warm and the glass of sancerre helped also! I ordered the chicken sandwich but unfortunately the server misunderstood and brought out the chicken dish but I really wanted the sandwich because the combination of chicken, bacon and pear sounded wonderful so they quickly exchanged it and it was sooo good. I could only eat 1/2 after the soup so i am glad the other 1/2 will be dinner tonight. The atmosphere was so Parisian and looking out at the water while sitting by a nice fireplace made it even more enticing. The French sundae dessert is amazing- caramel and chocolate (and not from a jar I bet you) with pecans and vanilla ice cream with whipped cream is a large serving but my husband and I polished it off and ended the meal with some very good coffee brought in a small coffee pot so we could replenish without bothering anyone. I truly felt so good after our meal. Can't wait to return! read more

Rive Bistro - Chicken with pear baguette and fries - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

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Although it was a chilly fall day, the outdoor seating was cozy and homey. The owner is so sweet and makes sure to make all patrons feel seen and appreciated. My French onion soup was amazing. The salad was also good. However, one of the olives was not pitted; the rest were pitted so I chomped down on the pit, ouch! I tasted some of the duck pate, which also came with gherkin pickles and mustard, so it tasted like an elevated Cuban sandwich. The crème brûlée has espresso in it and it was a tasty way to end the meal. read more

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One of my favorite date night places! The atmosphere on the river is lovely. I often crave the escargot. The martini I like is made perfectly. I have always had good attentive service as well. read more

Took my students last year, and I am taking them again this year. The food was great, the service was amazing, and the atmosphere was FANTASTIC! read more

My wife and I dined here on a recent Saturday evening, and it was a delightful experience. The word I would use to describe Rive is "comfortable". The service was warm and unpretentious (including the hostess), the menu is traditional French bistro food which is one of our favorites, and its clear they get a regular local clientele. My wife had the salmon terrine appetizer and the bouillabaisse; I had the escargots and steak frites. All were delicious; my steak was perfectly cooked. We would definitely consider returning in the future. read more

Been back since new Chef- at least two to three times over the past year. I have to say since they've changed the chef- the menu is absolutely stellar. the duck as well as escargot and multiple other items have have all been absolutely outstanding. We have not had a bad dish since we've returned. I would highly recommend trying it out. As always, the environment is fantastic. I have to say the food is now top-notch will definitely be going back again. read more

Unfortunately, our family had a poor experience at the restaurant. The location is great on the Saugatuck River; though, that may have contributed to our issue during dinner. In addition, the frites were excellent. However; our outdoor table was overwhelmed by gnats; which may be due to the proximity to the River. They got in our food, drinks, and on us. We told the server and hostess and requested to be moved inside. They were not able to move us inside and, in hindsight, we should have left immediately. The waiter apologized but the hostess was belligerent, which added insult to injury. read more

A dear friend took me to Rive Bistro for my birthday, and it was a beautiful (and delicious) experience. Quiet enough for good conversation, but also warm and friendly service. It was a pleasure from start to finish. read more

arrived 11:25 for 11:30 reservation. c Colleen ranted how "getting here early gets you nothing." Waited a few minutes and asked if we could just sit down since one member of our party is in chemo. Colleen said "sit anywhere." Chose a table with a view. "Colleen came roaring out saying you can't sit there, it's reserved. This is what happens when people come early. Now I have to deal with you.". She continued to rant at us until I said "ok we'll go somewhere else.". When we ate, my salad had gone down hill since the last time we went to Rive plus the tables no are arranged so only 1 table has a view. read more

Both me and my guests have been going to Rive Bistro for years. Never had a dish i was disappointed with! Always served as described, perfected by their excellent kitchen staff! They also always have surprising specials to temp your taste! Service is always the best! Moreover, watching the swans, boats and rowers is an additional treat that adds to the wonderful ambiance! read more

Rive Bistro - Henry Luciano and a very special friend, Judie, at the Rive Bistro lower, inside dining room. - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

It's unfortunate when an old favorite has a new(ish) hostess that ruined our evening. Been going to Rive for at least 10 years. Had a milestone family event in the private space 7 years ago. Always been a lovely atmosphere with wonderful food. Loved Eric and Tatiana. Unfortunately, was treated so rudely this evening. Told to leave our table before being offered a dessert menu and we still had wine in the bottle. When we mentioned to the hostess that this could have been handled with more hospitality, she became antagonistic. So disappointed by the way that the hostess treated us. Sadly, will never go back after this experience. Unless the hostess is changed . . . then will happily return to an old faithful. Too many high quality options in the area to be treated like this. read more

Amazing birthday dinner here amazing service amazing views amazing food go if you can especially for a special occasion or if you just want to be treated very well:) beautiful views of the Saugatuck river and at night all the lights lit up along the river made me feel like I was in France! We ate it several good places in Westport and this was our favorite read more

C'est magnifique! A wonderful experience this second time around! Caroline is a top notch server. She made me and my friend feel right at home and never once rushed us. She made sure everything was to our liking. She was such a delight. Oh, mon Dieu! The chicken breast (which you see pictured) is very close to coq au vin (which my friend had) and was délicieux! Every ingredient and aspect of preparation was perfection. (The coq au vin, my friend assured, was equally délicieux.) The view along the Saugatuck River is always a lovely part of the experience. read more

Rive Bistro - Chicken breast - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

A lovely place for an Autumn afternoon wedding. Great food and service. I would return especially for the roasted salmon which was cooked to perfection. Don't forget to get the fries! read more

She gave us free lemonade and free ice cream. Got the best service I could ever ask for. Got our food in less than 2 minutes. Perfect place right on the water. They allowed us to fish off the back of the restaurant. read more

Rive Bistro - Free ice cream/lemondade - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

Went with a friend for lunch. The restaurant was empty both inside and outside, yet we were greeted by a hostess, who asked if we had a reservation and then paused prior to seating us. That seemed odd to me, but let it go. Inside decor was fine and there were also tables outside along the inlet to the sound. I will say it got more crowded as we dined with people walking in yet. Do not know if that was the reason we were asked about a reservation. Menu is very expensive for lunch averaging 20+ dollars and up. Lots of cheeses and dairy as French food. I got the light watermelon salad, which was just fine. Everything seemed OK, but it didn't have that knocked me out punched to return. My lunch guest got a different salad that seemed quite small for the price. Can't say I'd return anytime soon as French food is not my favorite, but the setting was nice. No complaints so four stars read more

Can't say enough of the quality of the food and the ambience but what was the icing on the cake was the service and attention we got from Vanessa and Nat. My Mom who was visiting from out of country enjoyed herself thoroughly thanks to the staff read more

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Thank you for another amazing dinner, Rive Bistro. We celebrated our first empty nester dinner. After a Saint Germain Spritz, we had Brie Crostinis, Pâté de la Maison, and super tasty Colored Cauliflower for appetizers, Salmon, and catch of the day for main with a Sancerre. Quality of ingredients combined with the recommendations from Caroline and a warm patio setting by the water (picture missing), it was a comforting evening crowned by 4 chocolates for dessert. Thank you! read more

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I wasn't running to visit this place, but when I heard that the head chef changed, I knew the time had come. We had a delicious meal at Rive. Service was a little slow, but it was a Monday night and we were in no rush. The servers were courteous and helpful. The ambiance of the restaurant was wonderful. Many people sat on the covered outdoor area. We sat indoors but water-side next to huge picture windows. It was lovely. The watermelon salad was absolutely delicious! We also enjoyed excellent gnocchi. Everything was cooked to perfection. Our sides - green beans, corn, and fries - were also very good. I look forward to returning in the future. The ambiance, food, lighting, service, and location make this a wonderful place in Westport and very close to Norwalk. read more

Rive Bistro - The best watermelon salad I've had. - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

Most French restaurants fall into one of two categories. Bistro or fine dining. I feel like Rive Bistro tries to fall somewhere in between yet it's not very successful in its attempt. The restaurant itself is located on the Saugatuck river, a very nice space that has both inside and outside seating. Inside you have large windows overlooked the river, it's a nice view. But enough about that, let's talk about the food. The table started with the Country Pâté and Baked Brie Crostini. The pâté was nothing special, more lunchmeat than pâté, and probably not made in house. Also, if you're going to serve it with bread, provide more than 4 tiny pieces. It's like serving a hotdog with half a bun. The Brie crostini was fine, but not worth the price. A piece of Brie with a bit of microgreens and honey on a piece of bread. Both dishes were more amuse bouche than appetizer. Main courses were equally uninspiring. The duck breast entree was a mess. The duck was lukewarm, not cooked to the correct temperature, lacking a crispy skin, and sliced improperly. It was accompanied by a small bland polenta cake, and a random pile of mushrooms. The orange sauce was vague, and lacked flavor. Steak Frites, a classic bistro dish, one that every bistro should nail was average at best. The meat itself was filet-like, not the typical cut for the dish, served in an underwhelming sauce. The frites were ok, a bit greasy, and a lot of smaller pieces like they were the dregs at the bottom of the tray. Moules Marinier had mussels with some of the smallest meats I've ever seen, I didn't try the broth but I was told it was good. The dish that looked the best was a fish special that I also didn't try but the diner who ordered it said it was good. I ordered a side of potato mousseline, which they should call bland mashed potatoes. They were lacking any refinement, seasoning, or richness. A side of sautéed mushrooms was equally uninspiring. It was a bowl of random mushrooms sautéed in butter, nothing more. Everything I tried was sorely lacking seasoning. If you aren't going to provide salt and pepper on the table you need to do a better job seasoning the food. Some herbs would be nice too. Desserts were a mixed bag. A hazelnut and chocolate mousse was basically a chocolate pudding with Nutella added. It was grainy, and lacking a light and airy texture. The apple tart was lacking apples, and dominated by a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. Proper French cuisine is a combination of good ingredients, knowledgeable cooks, and tradition. Unfortunately I don't believe the kitchen at Rive Bistro has the talent or depth to provide a convincing French culinary experience. read more

I think another reviewer put it well...service great but food was a little underwhelming. Casual ambiance, french music playing in the background. Tends to draw more of the senior crowd, at least on the Saturday night we were there. We had wine, app, salad, entree, dessert and coffee. I had a $38 shrimp and grits; it was just okay...have had better elsewhere for less. Nice romaine salad. Pretty good escargot, especially if you love lemon. Wife's bouillabaisse was also just ok. Wine was was great. Coffee very good. read more

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How do you review a place with excellent service but good that doesn't meet the hype? We were seated by a nice gentleman (the owner?) right on the water facing windows. Beautiful. Our server was extremely nice and attentive. However my $28 bolognese wasn't that good. Kind of tasteless to be honest. So how do you review that? I'd give 4 stars for service and less than that for the food. We might come back in the future but TBH you are paying for the location and not the food. read more

Rive Bistro - Lamb bolognese. Full of promise! - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

Decided to try this place for lunch and wasn't disappointed! The service was kind of slow, so it felt like we waited around 10 minutes before anybody sat us down. We were seated by the window and none of the waiters came by until a little later. Just overall, service could be better, but it was fine. We ordered the salad and sandwich special and a plate of baked oysters. The baked oysters were just okay, thought about getting fresh ones instead. The salad special was good and filling. It was a good combination of greens and creamy avocado along with the smoky and juicy shrimp. One downside was a piece of branch(?) that we spotted in the salad, which could just be because it was straight from the bag. The filet mignon sandwich was pretty good, basically an elevated steak sandwich. The meat was tender and juicy and the onions were caramelized nicely. I had a choice of salad or fries, I got the fries which were fresh and crispy, but salted heavily. tl;dr good food and pretty views, but service is a bit slow read more

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I'm a little confused by these reviews because I enjoyed my dinner here. The place has a French brasserie vibe... Down by the water is an excellent place to sit on a sunny day. The bar has ample space to grab a cocktail and isn't too crowded if you want to pop in for a drink. We ordered Saint Jacques, beef bourguignon, the charcuterie board, French onion soup and a salmon Rillette, plus some cocktails. Everything was executed well, and we really felt overwhelmingly happy with everything we ordered. The only qualm was the slow service as the place filled in. Our waitress was quite lovely, and her enthusiasm in describing the food, plus her beautiful French accent, really added to the ambiance. The dirty vodka martini was perfect. I would return. read more

We celebrated my birthday today at Rive! It was awesome. The food is impeccable and the atmosphere wonderful. I have to say that the lovely Caroline has added a fabulous je-ne-sais-quoi to the place. Her attention to detail and feminine touches with good looking patio/plants/light and her super cute demeanor are a strong plus! Thank you! read more

Excellent ambiance, service & food Great host by Angela & food by Chef Roland The specials with soups & fish are always excellent Coach Rodrigo read more

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First time eating here and enjoyed it very much. The views are lovely, service was attentive. The French kiss cocktail was delicious. We had the baked Brie appetizer and it was really good. For entrees we had the trout and mussels & fries...both were well prepared. We also had the puff pastry dessert with strawberries and whipped cream. Very happy overall, will come back. read more

We had a lovely meal at Rive Bistro. The atmosphere is beautiful. We were seated next to a large picture window with a view of the river. The service was friendly and the server patiently answered my questions. As for the food, we started with the escargot, which had a delicious sauce. We were brought bread which we used to soak up the sauce. My only critique here is that the bread should be warmed. I ordered the beef bourguignon which had a rich, delicious sauce, tender beef and creamy potatoes. My husband had the pork chop special which also had a delicious sauce. We enjoyed our meal and would recommend this restaurant. read more

This is by far my favorite restaurant in Westport. Great food by Chef Roland. Great view of the Saugatuck River. Great wine. Great time thanks to service staff. read more

Rive Bistro - Chef Roland - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

FAREWELL CHEF ROLAND !!!!!! We have just enjoyed our last 5 meal at Rive Bistro overseen by the uber talented Chef Roland. It is with a sad heart we heard of his imminent departure as Chef from the restaurant. We hope he will stay local so we can become frequent patrons of whatever establishment he is cooking at. Till then we will just have to savor the fabulous mussels Bouillabaisse, stellar soup, delicious chicken breast and outstanding watermelon salad (what DOES he put in that dressing ) . You will be missed Roland. A sad loss for Rive Bistro. read more

We stopped in yesterday after getting a late reservation. When searching different restaurants in the area, this one always came up and I believed I bookmarked it but for some reason I never had the opportunity to check it out. I am really glad I stopped in last night. The restaurant has several dining areas-outside, bar area, first floor dining room and it seemed like they also had a second floor as well. We ate at a high top table support of in between the bar and the dining room. The dining area is a bit dark but not too bad. I believe their is a dining area overlooking water but it was dark and I did not get a good look. For dinner my girlfriend had the pâté and I had the pork chop. My pork chop was served with a mushroom gravy, asparagus and sautéed kale. The pate was served with salad and bread. The pork chop was a thick cut, cooked perfectly and the kale was perfectly marinated with tons of garlic. I loved my meal. My girlfriend enjoyed hers as well, a nice sized portion. For dessert we had the Grand Marnier Creme brûlée and it was absolutely delicious, probably the best I've had. We definitely loved this place and would come back in the future. read more

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Chef Roland left and he was the best His food was amazing Can't wait for his next venue read more

WARNING ! This is not the old Rive Bistro we all loved. There is a new crop of people both in the kitchen and on the floor, and things have changed. The place is not the hang out that it used to be for a lot of us, and some of the old favorites are not on the menu anymore. F.e. the biggest attraction was the onion soup which was a favorite after a day of work. GONE ! (it should also be mentioned that after the change, it was still on the menu but nowhere close to the previous quality.) Every restaurant needs a revamping once in a while (or, if things are good, does it...?) but this one was not that great. read more

Excellent food, service and ambience. Vegan options too. Go for the escargots. You know you want them ( not vegan, of course). Salads were great, soups as well. Outdoor dining under the trees or open canopy / tent with river views. read more

Rive Bistro - Chopped Kale and Farro Salad - French Near Me - Westport, Connecticut

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Rude hostess. Won't let me pick up from here and every time I call says the kitchen is too busy. Meanwhile I did takeout 4 times already spending almost 600$. I'll never eat here again. How hard is it to cook 2 burgers and put them in a bag? Get over yourself read more