Riverside Cafe Restaurant Review – Vero Beach, Florida

Nestled along the banks of the Indian River, this is just one of those restaurants that exemplify what Florida living is all about. Here, you can drive up and dock your boat, grab a bite to eat, and bask in the glory of those unforgettable sunsets. With recent changes in kitchen leadership, including the departure of a long-standing chef and the rise of a new executive chef, I was eager to see how the culinary experience had evolved. But some things, like the laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking views, are timeless, serving as a reminder of the enduring charm of this beloved riverside eatery.

One notable change that greeted me upon arrival was the addition of a new drive-thru at the main entrance. It’s a welcomed enhancement, especially considering that parking closest to the restaurant has always been a little tight. Maneuvering in and out of spots was often a challenge, compounded by the necessity to back out if a spot wasn’t immediately available. With the implementation of this drive-thru, however, this logistical headache has been alleviated, making the parking a little bit more convenient.

Stepping inside, the atmosphere instantly transports you to a bygone era of Florida, where time seems to slow down. For those seeking a quieter dining experience, a separate dining room offers low-top tables. In contrast, the main dining area provides high tops and bar seating, all strategically positioned to maximize the breathtaking 180-degree views of the river. Adding to the ambiance, a stage hosts live performances by local artists, with the occasional surprise appearance by renowned musician Jake Owen, known to drop by for impromptu performances when he’s in town.

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Now let’s dive right in and see what this place has to offer and what I had to eat!

Let’s kick off our meal with Riverside’s Famous Onion Rings. These crispy delights are a testament to Riverside’s commitment to quality and flavor. Freshly sliced onions are coated in a light beer batter and then fried to a perfect golden brown. Served alongside a tangy and spicy aioli. The generous portion size ensures there’s plenty to share, making it an ideal starter for any table. With a satisfying crunch on the outside and tender onions on the inside, Riverside’s Famous Onion Rings are a must-try for any visit.

Next on our culinary journey was the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich. This classic dish features a golden-brown fried chicken breast, coated in a medium buffalo sauce with Riverside’s renowned bleu cheese served on the side. Despite being generously dressed, the chicken retains its satisfying crunch and is moderately spicy, and let’s not forget about those irresistible fries—double-fried for a crispy exterior and a soft, mashed-potato-like interior, they’re the perfect accompaniment to this flavorful sandwich.

Riverside is renowned for its exceptional Fish and Chips, so naturally, we had to indulge. This classic dish features a beer-battered fillet of fish served alongside fries and coleslaw (not pictured), accompanied by housemade tartar sauce. As our order arrived, we were greeted with a plate of piping hot goodness—the fish was delightfully crispy on the outside while remaining moist and tender on the inside.

For our final dish, we opted for the Grilled Skirt Steak. This hearty meal features marinated skirt steak, topped with onions and mushrooms for added flavor. Served medium rare to ensure tenderness, it’s served over their famous french fries with a side of sautéed veggies. The portion size is substantial, making it perfect for sharing. While the meat was tender and flavorful, the veggies, though cooked well, could have used a bit more seasoning to enhance their taste. Overall, a satisfying and hearty option to round off our dining experience at Riverside.

Riverside Cafe
Address: 3341 Bridge Plaza Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 234-5550
http://www.riversidecafe.com/

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