I was finally able to secure a booking at the highly regarded River Cafe. My first piece of advice is to book at least a week in advance. Even getting a table for Sunday lunch was difficult.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with touches of blue that give the space a distinctly Mediterranean feel. That influence suits the Italian menu perfectly. A large wood-fired oven anchors the bright, lively interior, and from what I have heard, the outdoor space is lovely in summer.
The service is another standout feature. The staff are warm, upbeat, and highly professional. The setting feels modern and fresh rather than formal, the quality of the ingredients and the standard of cooking justify the cost which is on the steep side.
Update 2026: Over the years River Café was a major spot for me and my family to celebrate special occasions, enjoy life’s cheerful moments and it always gives us smiles whenever we visit. Hence, as one of my landmark London spots I wanted to keep this place in this small blog as my favourite spots.