Riverside Tavern is my go to spot with friends and family! Such a great local a lot with the best cocktails and menu. Theres something there for everyone and they always decorate for the holidays which makes it fun and special and have a great patio read more

I am extremely disappointed with my experience at Riverside Tavern on Forest Hill Avenue. I ordered the grilled salmon with mashed potatoes and asparagus to go for $23.00. When I opened the container, I was shocked to find that the salmon portion was barely larger than my finger. It looked more like a sample than an entrée. I have attached photos because words alone don't adequately capture how small it was. What makes this even more frustrating is that I have ordered this exact meal before while dining in with my family, and the salmon portion I received then was easily three times larger. So this isn't a case of unrealistic expectations--I know what this dish normally looks like. I called the restaurant to express my concern, hoping they would make it right. Instead, the bartender responded with, "The portions are cut how they are cut," as if that somehow justified charging full price for such a tiny piece of fish. When I asked to speak with the owner, I was told, "You won't be talking to the owner. I'll just give him your information." There was no apology, no offer to replace the meal, no effort to address my concern--just complete indifference. If portions have been reduced, customers should be informed before paying premium prices. If this was simply an inconsistent serving, then quality control is seriously lacking. Either way, charging $23 for what amounts to a nugget of salmon is unacceptable. I used to enjoy Riverside Tavern and specifically ordered this meal because I had a good experience previously. Unfortunately, this visit--and especially the way my complaint was handled--has left me questioning whether I'll be back. read more

Riverside Tavern - Pan Seared Salmon nugget - Bars Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Found this spot on yelp and decided to try it out for dinner. Three of us went. The parking is a little tight but there is street parking in the neighborhood behind it. We had about a 20 min wait. There is also indoor and outdoor seating along with bar seating. We had a good waitress and we had good service. All of us had a different beer. There is a small beer menu but with a good variety. I had a red ale and an orange wheat. We all had different sandwiches as well. I had the riverside burger and it was really good. It is a small place overall but has a community/local feel to it. It is a little out of the way for us but I would go back again if in that area. read more

Riverside Tavern - Bars Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Wasn't too busy on a Sunday afternoon, they have a little parking lot. They have some patio chairs right out front, a bar and some seating inside and then a patio outside. The patio is covered and has 2 heaters. We walked into the bar and the bartender directed us outside where our server came out and got us waters. She helped us turn the heaters on and got us settled as we waited for the rest of our family to arrive. For apps, we ordered the Fried Oysters and the chicken tenders with BBQ sauce. The chicken tenders came with fries as well. The oysters were good, nice and crispy. The tenders were also delicious, especially with the BBQ sauce. The fries, while they looked crispy, were just a tad soggy for my taste. For our entrees, I ordered the Fried Chicken Sandwich and my husband ordered the cubano. Our family ordered salads with salmon. Everything looked delicious and was fairly quick to come out. My sandwich came with ranch and it definitely helped tone down the saltiness of the Fried chicken. Just eating the chicken alone was too salty and I had asked for my fries extra crispy which were amazing. The cubano sandwich was good and well made and the side of Brussels my husband got were also crispy. The salads and the salmon looked good, definitely cooked well. Our server was very friendly and accommodating. The person who helped bring out our drinks also ended up bringing out some bacon for our dog and was so kind. The patio is dog friendly but I would recommend brining a towel or mat for your pup to lay on. Overall, great service and good food! read more

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Came at 5:15 on a Friday - the outdoor patio was pretty full but there was plenty of indoor seating available in the booths and at the bar. We ordered the wings as an appetizer with the dry rub - they were the best wings we've had a while and the dry rub is delicious. My husband got the fried chicken sandwich which he loved (chicken wasn't overly seasoned as mentioned in someone else's review) *note the chicken sandwich is chicken thigh. I got the cubano and it was delicious! Along with the hand cut fries and my husband liked the Mac n cheese. Staff was super friendly and great service, we'll definitely be back! read more

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The service was confident. The recommendations were spot on. My daughter and I relish a good dark beer. She has a dark lager and I had a coffee stout. The cocktail and wine selections were interesting. We came for happy hour and small bites as advertised. We were not disappointed. Fresh small plate items and generous sandwiches. The personal nachos, which we split, had pickled carrots and a light aioli cheese sauce that we enjoyed. Thank goodness we got there early as the tables filled up fast!! read more

I visited Riverside Tavern toward the end of August with a couple of friends. We had been bouncing around the area and wanted to check out a new-to-us place. The weather was nice, so we sat out on the covered patio. Our server was super sweet and answered our million questions with grace. We all enjoyed our cocktails. I had a gin drink that was delightful and refreshing. For my meal, I ordered the pork schnitzel with sides of mac and cheese and french fries. The schnitzel itself was tasty, but both sides were lacking. I'd just get different sides next time. The vibe was so chill and relaxing, and the interior looked inviting too. Prices were reasonable for the quality. I'd consider a return trip for sure. read more

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Awesome bartenders. Great drinks. Food is amazing. One of my favorite spots! Festive, friendly, fun.

Riverside Tavern feels like you're visiting a family friend's place. This tiny tavern gives me beach town vibes. There is bar seating and booths inside. There is a covered patio outside. My partner and I stopped by here after a post work walk to grab some dinner. We were a bit surprised at the prices of things with tax and tip, but I supposed it's expected with inflation. We got the chopped cheese sandwich and the oyster poboy special. I love that they have a choice between fries or tots. The fries are the thick kind and the tots are pretty good. Both options are easy to inhale. My partner really liked his chopped cheese sandwich. I was happy with my oyster poboy. The sauce they used really complimented the fried oysters. When we went, there seemed to be only one waitress so the service was a bit slow, but thankfully we weren't in a rush. It's a charming place to stop by and get a meal. read more

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Indoor and patio seating Great menu. Not too big, not too small. Just don't things right and there is something for everyone. The kitchen pivots to please customers Bartenders are friendly and make you feel like you belong there. Happy hour has some great menu treats. Looking forward to going back. read more

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This place is a gem. The food is always on point. The service is phenomenal. When I'm dining out on the patio, I forget that I'm still in Richmond. Great relaxed spot for meeting up with old friends and meeting new ones. Their dessert specials never disappoint. Always ask what they have for dessert everyday. It changes sometimes and I get pleasantly surprised every time I try a new one. Give this place a go and I promise you'll keep coming back. read more

Visited on an early Saturday evening, when the place was full, but not crowded. Good selection of beer, and burgers we ordered were tasty. Waitress was attentive, checking back with us frequently. It was our first time at Riverside Tavern, and we'll be back. read more

The BRUSSELS!!!! Get them!!! The chopped cheese & Brussels is a mouth watering combo I've been coming for a couple years now and I get it every single time and I'm never disappointed!! read more

I had the Riverside Burger and fries! Amazing! My husband had the crab cake sandwich and was reluctant but was surprised at how much crab meat it had and how tasty it was! Great service! read more

What a great little atmosphere! Workers are very kind, polite, and helpful. I got the Cajun chicken Alfredo and it was to die for. Definitely a place I would like to come back to. read more

Lovely restaurant right on the river with lovely ambiance. We sat in the bar which was lovely and quiet and received excellent service. My husband had the crab cakes which were perfect and were served on a polenta which was delicious. My Cobb salad was the best I have and was topped with crabmeat. All in all it is wonderful food with a very professional and friendly staff. Our bartender was great! Highly recommend. read more

Went there for lunch. The menu was a bit limited. We had fresh orange juice and steaks. Both were amazing!! Would like to try their dinner some day. read more

Torta, Cuban, and Fried Chicken Sandwich are all fantastic. I don't know how I'll choose between these 3 in the future. The Brussels were super crispy and seasoned great. Hand cut fries are also better than most fries I've had. I don't eat pasta salad a lot but no complaints about theirs. Only thing I haven't liked was the burger. I don't mind a messy one but this one got a little too messy. Can't wait to try the rest of the menu! Service has been good too and staff is cool. read more

Riverside Tavern - Fried chicken sandwich and pasta salad - Bars Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Love this place! Always friendly and upbeat customer service! The food is great and we love the craft cocktails!

Great location and local neighborhood spot. Great drinks. Great food. Happy hour specials. Whats not to like? Whether having a drink after work lunch or dinner with a date it has a menu for most and I like the local crowd. Good people being served well by good people. read more

Where to even begin!!!!!! The vibe here is simply warm and welcoming! I've been there several times and the cocktails are always great! The entrees are delicious and the portions are impressive! The Brussels sprouts are YUM!!!!! Their menu is simple but WILL not disappoint! The house ranch is the bestttttttttt read more

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This is a neighborhood gem not to be missed. This location has been different things in the past. If our food, but more importantly, the treatment we received were any measure of success, this place will stick & excel. What is a Cuban sandwich and why is it so appealing? There are differences of opinion on wether it was created in the Keys, or Tampa. Likely for the workers of the cigar industry in those areas more than a century ago. It's wide appeal is likely due to the balance of flavor profiles when done right: savory, fatty, smoky, garlicky, sour, sweet, toasty, unctuous perfection. The pork, ham, cheese, bread, pickles, mustard, must all be applied correctly. This was the best one I've had, anywhere else, outside of South FL. They use locally made long rolls/baguette, and use wisdom with the rest of the ingredients. The bread is far less "doughy", which is fantastic toasted and pressed because you taste everything in harmony. The beef torta was equally delicious, as were the tavern fries I had with it, and the potatoes hash my wife enjoyed. They have bar & booth seating, and plentiful seating outside in a tent, that they have legit heaters for, to keep it warm on a day as today. I don't drink but the cocktail menu, craft beer board, and bar, along with the numerous large TV's, look like it would be fun if that's all they were. We received EXCEPTIONAL friendly service from the fantastic couple in this family business: Wade & Sam. They couldn't have been more accommodating, and warm or friendly. We are sure to return with our adult daughters in tow. Every neighborhood needs a place like this. read more

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The whole team at Riverside make this place, the food and drinks are damn good too. It's a great local spot with a really good vibe. Drinks are well crafted but not pretentious and you can't go wrong with their nachos for starters. The weekly specials don't miss the mark either. The staff are very attentive and fun. Any chance we get to take people over there from out of town we do. Keep kickin' ass Riverside! read more

This is a great casual local place with good food and a nice rotating beer draft selection. I had the Riverside burger and my friend got the Cubano sandwich. Both were delicious. Service was excellent and we will be back again! read more

Unexpectedly yummy! The dark close quarters of the inside and the outdoor entry bathrooms could read dive bar but Riverside Tavern elevates itself with a high quality menu and thoughtful touches. My cubano sandwich was everything I expected it to be. The crispy Brussels were standout for me with the perfect level of crispiness and flavor. I appreciate that this "premium" type side is available (in a good sized portion) along the standard French fries. Will be back for drafts on the patio! read more

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My wife and I stumbled on this place a few years back. Wonderful food, nice ambiance, friendly owner and staff. We do not live locally but have made an effort to go each time we are visiting our son and his GF in Richmond. So why only 4 stars? I simply cannot understand why I am unable to purchase give cards as gifts to my son. I've tried repeatedly only to be told I must be present to purchase. Seems odd in this day and age. I call but they are uninterested in accommodating my request. I am trying to give them business. You might think that would be marketing 101. So I move onto other ideas. Also, the link on google to the restaurant website is broken. And I am unable to find it by searching. I wish them well. read more

Dropped in for an impromptu Mother's Day visit. We had some apps and a few cocktails and were absolutely delighted. Charming little venue with courteous and attentive service. Has a real down home neighborhood kind of feel. First visit, but not my last! read more

Went for the Tuesday night smashburger special and it did not disappoint. Food was well seasoned and came out hot and fresh. It's also a great deal compared to so many burger places in the area, $10 for double patty smashburger and fries. Server did not show up for their shift and the bartender's service was spot on. We didn't have to wait or look for anyone to help us, he was very attentive. We will definitely be back! read more

The barbecue sandwich and smoked chicken wings were delicious. Our server was awesome!

The ambiance is great for the bar crowd and the porch is wonderful. The service was questionable as I had difficulty finding someone to wait on me and then they could not find my to go order. I was shocked at only 5 "medallions" for $23.00 and the taste was not great. Also, the Brussels Sprouts were hard and burnt. Not an enjoyable experience. read more

I have been here several times. I wanted to give a good review. I walked in and the hostess said sit wherever you want. We sat and waited for over 20 minutes. Watching her take care of the other four tables but not once giving us water service or a menu. The bartender was doing nothing but talking to bar patrons. We were ignored at even though we were seen. I am patient but they didn't seem to care about as patrons and thus, we left. How can we patron a restaurant who doesn't care about us at all? read more

Wow! So impressed with the new menu here and how nice everything was. Fried oysters, wings, Cesar salad with real anchovies, and bean and corn cakes. Very fresh and amazing service! We are happy to have this reinvented place down the street. read more

This is by Proxy due to the rave reviews I got from my son and his three buds. The four are professional bar flies and "worldly" foodies. Michael runs a commercial kitchen; and is married to Jenny aka: "Millsy" who is one of Richmond's most beloved bartenders and waitresses. The gang was there this past weekend of Feb 11th. First: Ambiance: corroborates that Richmond is ONE GREAT PLACE for authentic; small businesses that try to give the city something new every time and work very hard to be unique. I miss living in Richmond mostly due to its bars and restaurants and always include it in the upper echelon of great American foodie cities along with Philly; Charlotte, Savannah and Charleston. (Don't agree; read my reviews...) Things got off to a great start when a "regular" told the guys about the RT chili. He did one better: he bought them a round of it! Special Karma + Good Chili x heavy pours = 5 star reviews! The staff was equally as friendly and accommodating. The chocolate cheesecake sampler sealed the deal for the gang. Some US Food Sales Execs were there too and "bonding" in their equal admiration of the place. Guess who will be going straight to the Riverside Tavern as soon as I cross the river??? read more

Southside is a food desert so I am super happy we have this place. Even though it's pretty much the only restaurant in that neighborhood, they do their best with the staples and offer specials daily -- they do a great job at changing it up. They also just added a produce stand out front so you can swing by to grab something you need for dinner while supporting local farms! Their patio is dog friendly, the staff is beyond amazing, and the food ROCKS. It really does have a Cheers vibe in there. There's a reason why they have a TON of regulars, including myself! Also BEST nachos this side of the river!!! The hype is real! read more

We had dinner at Riverside Tavern last night and it was amazing!! The food was all very good and the service was absolutely the best!! We will certainly be back soon!! read more

We are out-of-towners just passing through and this spot was recommended to us, and it was immediately obvious why our local friend calls this her favorite spot. Super low-key, fun, neighborhood spot kind of vibe. We were served by a guy who I think may have been the owner? ( based on our friends description) and he was just awesome. He was warm and friendly, attentive, and he basically exuded pride and joy in the establishment and the food/drink offerings- we knew we were in good hands. Then there's the food. Damn. Every single thing we tried was excellent. Great flavors and creativity, clearly crafted with care. Great specials available, local brews on tap, need I go on? Wish we didn't live so far away, this place was just awesome. read more

Awesome. Great food, great location, good service. Everything on menu is worth it, but the torta is top notched. Brussels are awesome. Can't say enough. Definitely worth a stop in the Westover Hills neighborhood. read more

Fried oysters, Caesar salad, wings, every was on point. Beer list is unique but all flavors covered. This place has found a home in my heart and will be a south side staple. Give it a try. You won't be disappointed. read more

I love this place! They offer consistently good food and a great neighborhood atmostphere. They serve lots of pub standards, but also throw in elevated twists like farm-sourced produce and homemade mixers for house cocktails. As a vegetarian, I really appreciate the option to substitute Tofu on many of the meat dishes. They also offer rotating specials that are always appealing. read more

Wereally enjoyed lunch yesterday - fabulous burgers, enormous Mac & Cheese sides, wonderful waitress. The food is great, fairly priced and prompt service. We'll be regulats. read more